Built to seamlessly connect the kitchen with the dining area in this open-plan space is a comfortable and characterful banquette. Inspired by a favourite local café in the heart of St Albans, this inviting banquette has become a cherished feature of the family home. It’s a relaxed yet refined setting that captures the essence of a leisurely weekend brunch, right at home.
Whether it’s everyday family dinners or milestone celebrations, this area was designed to host life’s special moments in comfort and style. We are proud to create personalised spaces that reflect the way our clients live, love and gather.
Are you ready to know more about this stunning design? Scroll down to see the exciting journey of this new chapter of inspired design and thoughtful living in a modern home.
The Style – Interior & Exterior
The versatile seating area is positioned against an exposed brick wall and beneath a large window for added daytime light. Designing an L-shaped design allowed us to make full use of the corner and provide extra seating around multiple sides while encouraging a natural flow between the kitchen and dining zones.
This true collaborative project celebrates the artistic flair and thoughtful approach of Bryony, the interior designer. The clear vision brought is a balance of comfort, practicality, and a luxurious atmosphere for everyday pleasures.
Together, the Lay-On Shaker style, which flows from the kitchen, and the paired signature walnut interior, bring a sense of richness and warmth to the space. The deep walnut grain adds visual depth and contrast, creating the layered, inviting aesthetic you see.
The Colours
We followed the paint hue from the main cabinetry to the banquette in a deep uncut blue known as Plimsoll by Paint & Paper Library. The colour choice brings a strong sense of cohesion to the space, perfectly matching the darker tones of the solid oak table and multi-coloured seating cushion. Choosing the deep blue was deliberate. The striped, padded seat adds a playful softness and visual contrast, while the green padded back is selected for its tailored look and tonal richness.
Choosing such a playful range of colours results in a stylish and inviting corner suited to all.
The Finishing Touches
One standout feature of the banquette seating area is the solid planked oak table, beautifully stained in a warm chocolate tone. This addition echoes the timber accents found throughout the kitchen, and with its industrial-style black metal butterfly legs, brings a modern edge to the contemporary feel. Bringing a modern touch contrasts with the softness of the bench upholstery. Together, these elements create a tactile and visually balanced environment. Cafe-style chairs were added to the outside of the table to provide extra seating.
Beneath the upholstered seat is the hidden storage in push-to-open drawers, offering seamless storage for stashing away board games, linens, and everyday essentials. There are even a couple of integrated socket plugs at the top of the bench that are ideal for charging gadgets while indulging in a home-cooked brunch.
See more on the Artistic & Influential Lay-On Shaker Kitchen, Dining Area, Entry/Hallway, Utility, Media Room, Child’s Bedroom & Walk-in Wardrobe
See other parts of the project in more detail:
Narnia of Interiors Lay-On Shaker Utility
Fiery Red Lay-On Shaker Entry/Hallway Unit
Inspired & Passionate Lay-On Shaker Walk-in Wardrobe
Modern Grey Lay-On Shaker Child’s Bedroom
Ultimate Relaxing Lay-On Shaker Media Room
Related blogs:
PF Kitchen Design Notes – Artistic & Influential Lay-On Shaker Open-Plan Kitchen, St Albans
Designing the Perfect Kitchen Nook with Versatile Built-in Banquette Seating
The Banquette – A Seating Staple Finding Its Way into Modern Homes
Our St Albans banquette is a testament to how bespoke furniture can transform even the most practical of spaces into something truly special. From the hand-built bench with smart, hidden storage to the custom finishes that echo the home’s kitchen palette, every detail is designed to support everyday living with style and ease.
If you’re feeling inspired by this project and would like to add bespoke banquette seating in your home, we’d love for you to get in touch and help bring your ideas to life. At Planet Furniture, we specialise in handcrafted solutions tailored to your space, lifestyle and aesthetics. Contact us today to discuss your project or visit our showroom to explore the possibilities in person.
