The Dimensions of a Kitchen Bench

A kitchen booth will increase the available space for eating and entertaining, particularly in a small kitchen. These tables are most common in certain design styles, particularly rustic traditional or French country, but correct styling will make them appropriate for just about any home. The specific dimensions of a bench are adjustable depending on layout, available space and how many place settings are required. Use the right guidelines when determining the size of a bench.

The space available within the room is going to be a key factor in determining the size of a kitchen bench. A certain amount of clearance around the table is necessary to keep a booth comfortable and functional, including pushing chairs out completely. Most arrangements require at least four feet on all sides to permit proper flow and movement throughout the room.

Traditional bench tables are rectangular shapes, though round or ovals will work in certain settings and generally take up less space. These shapes require just three feet of space on all sides for proper movement, an ideal alternative for small dining areas. This can be particularly nice if you have a bay window and are able to set the bench along the window side, creating a dining nook of sorts.

The size of the bench that you choose is going to vary greatly depending on how many people it is intended to seat. A bench between 42 and 52 inches in length will seat two adults comfortably. Bench length per person will, of course, vary depending on the size of the people involved.

A booth-style table with a 48-inch bench on each side will fit a family of three children and two adults. On average, bench height is about 18 inches and a depth of approximately 17 1/2 inches, according to Crown Point Cabinetry. Depth should not exceed 20 inches for the sake comfort. If they are any deeper, the bench will dig into your legs and make sitting quite uncomfortable.

A place setting is the measurement that determines how many people a table will seat comfortably. Standard place settings will measure a minimum of 24 inches wide, though 30 inches is ideal. These extra few inches will make movement more comfortable during meals.

An example of a proper width measurement for a table intended for four adults would be 60 inches. This will seat two individuals per side.

Length is measured in a similar fashion, but varies a bit depending on seating layout. For example, a four-person table with seating along one side will require at least a 21 inch depth, while seating along both sides requires a table at least 42 inches deep.

The length and width of a table will vary depending on personal needs and preferences. The height of a table, however, should be kept at approximately 30 inches tall.

This size will work well with the 18-inch height of the bench, and provide enough space for comfortable seating. Selecting an expandable table top will provide more table space as needed and is an ideal addition for entertaining or special occasions.

If you also plan to include a few chairs as available seating, be sure to measure the width, height, and depth of the chairs you are considering. Ideally, chairs and benches should have a similar height from the table and height off the floor if they are to both work at the same table.