I ran across this bench in a magazine recently and it made me do a double-take. It is the perfect combination of masculinity (power-coated steel and gray flannel) and femininity (the slim line and curve of the back and arms). I knew it would fit into our transitional home and, maybe more importantly, appeal to both me and my husband. Aptly named, the Stay Bench, it made me want to sit down and stay a while.
Admittedly, at more than $4,600, the price point of my drool-worthy find is a bit out of reach for us mere mortals, so I got inspired to look around for something that could fit the bill without breaking the bank. While I did not find a bench with a back that I love nearly as much as the Stay Bench, life is full of compromise and there are some great backless choices out there. Here are a few of my faves.
At $189, the Marcella Bench is the best deal we found. The leather gives the bench a more masculine feel, but the tufting and slim leg add a bit of femininity. The bench is also available with the cushion and legs in a few different color combinations.
The Collins Bench bench also fits the bill nicely, and at $399, it is affordable. Shown here in gray sunbrella fabric (great for high traffic areas) and a gold base, it too offers clean lines with a slightly masculine feel.
The curve of the Troy Bench ($1,085) and Helen Bench ($1,119) is reminiscent of the Stay Bench, but a bit more bold.
The lucite and brass combination of the Jacques Bench ($1800) provides a feminine touch to an angular bench with a dark seat. And, it is the only one of the bunch that has a back. Taking the elements together, this bench meets all of our criteria.
We think each of the benches above would achieve the look we are trying to create. It is nice to know that there are affordable options out there.
