What’s your idea of a great way to relax outdoors? For many, it is as simple as sitting on a comfortable chair with some drinks and snacks. How do you make it better? With a double chair bench!
If you enjoy lounging outdoors after a long day or during weekends, then here’s a piece of DIY furniture you might want to add to your home!
This furniture item is a chair bench for two with a ‘table’ in the middle for your drinks or books. You can build it with the timber of your choice, as long as it is weather-resistant! You can purchase new cedar timber for a bench that will last a long time, as well.
But if you want to keep expenses to a minimum, you can use pallets or other reclaimed timber instead. If you choose to go for the second option, make sure to pick timber that is still in good condition – with no cracks and decay.
You can install hinges at the back of the ‘table’ and attach additional support to the base frame to create room for a cooler. This way you can keep your drinks cold during the summer!
This DIY project can be finished in just one day if you already have all the tools and materials listed below. You can build your double chair bench with a table, even if you are new to woodworking!
Want this furniture item on your backyard, deck, or patio? Follow our guide on building your own double chair bench.
Contents
Constructing a Double Chair Bench
Materials
- Pallet/Reclaimed/Cedar Timber (1×4, 1×6 and 2×4’s)
- 2 1/2″ and 1 1/4″ Galvanized Screws
- Wood Glue
- Damp Cloth
- Wood Putty
- Your choice of Wood Finish
- Cooler
Tools
- Measuring Tape
- Circular Saw
- Jigsaw
- Miter Saw
- Carpenter’s Square
- Spirit Level
- Drill
- Sander
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Timber
- Inspect your timber for any cracks, decay, or defects. Use only the best pieces for your bench.
- Measure and cut your timber into the required lengths using the circular saw and miter saw. You’ll need pieces for the seat, backrest, legs, and the central table.
Step 2: Assemble the Seat Frames
- Start by building two seat frames using the 2×4 timbers for the sides and 1×4 timbers for the seat slats.
- Secure the slats to the side frames using the 1 1/4″ screws and wood glue for extra strength.
Step 3: Construct the Table Section
- Using the 1×6 timbers, cut pieces for the table top. Ensure the length matches the gap you desire between the two seats.
- Attach the table top pieces to two 2×4 timbers underneath, which will connect to the seat frames, using 1 1/4″ screws and wood glue.
Step 4: Attach the Legs
- Cut 2×4 timbers for the legs, making sure they provide the desired height for your bench.
- Attach the legs to the seat frames and the table section using 2 1/2″ screws and wood glue, ensuring stability and a level structure with the spirit level and carpenter’s square.
Step 5: Build and Attach the Backrest
- Measure and cut 1×4 timbers for the backrest slats, ensuring they span the width of the seat frames.
- Secure the backrest slats to the seat frames using 1 1/4″ screws and wood glue, maintaining an angle that offers comfortable seating.
Step 6: Sand and Finish
- Sand the entire bench thoroughly to remove any rough spots and prepare the surface for finishing.
- Wipe down the bench with a damp cloth to remove sawdust.
- Apply your choice of wood finish, following the manufacturer’s instructions for the best result.
Step 7: Optional Cooler Installation
- If you’re adding a cooler, measure and cut a hole in the central table section with the jigsaw.
- Install the cooler, ensuring it fits snugly. You may need to add additional support underneath.
Step 8: Final Touches
- Use wood putty to fill any screw holes, then sand smooth after drying.
- Apply a final coat of finish if necessary.
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Ergonomic Considerations
Ergonomic design plays a crucial role in the comfort and usability of furniture, especially for pieces meant for relaxation and outdoor enjoyment. When it comes to constructing a double chair bench, incorporating ergonomic principles can greatly enhance the comfort and functionality of the finished piece. This ensures that the bench is not only a beautiful addition to your outdoor space but also a comfortable spot for sitting and socializing for extended periods.
Seat Height and Depth
The perfect seat should welcome anyone to sit down and relax without a second thought about comfort. The seat height and depth are the cornerstones of this welcoming experience. With a recommended seat height of 16-18 inches, the double chair bench caters to a diverse array of individuals, allowing most to rest their feet flat on the ground. This particular height range is not arbitrary; it mirrors the natural sitting position of the human body, minimizing strain on the legs and lower back.
Similarly, the seat depth plays a crucial role in the bench’s comfort level. A depth of 18-20 inches strikes the perfect balance, offering ample room for users to lean back and enjoy the full support of the bench while maintaining the ease of standing up without awkward maneuvering. This consideration is especially crucial for a double chair bench intended for leisurely outdoor settings where comfort is paramount. Customizing these dimensions with the users in mind can transform a simple bench into a retreat, making the double chair bench not just accessible but genuinely inviting for everyone.
Backrest Angle and Support
The design of the backrest significantly affects how comfortable the bench will be for extended periods. A slight recline between 100 and 110 degrees is more than a matter of preference; it’s about aligning with the natural posture of the spine. This range supports the back in a relaxed position, preventing the stiffness associated with more upright or overly reclined seating.
The incorporation of lumbar support further tailors the double chair bench to the nuances of human anatomy. Whether built directly into the backrest’s curve or added through plush cushions, lumbar support cradles the lower back, bridging the gap between the bench and the body’s contours. This subtle feature can make all the difference, transforming the double chair bench from a mere seating option to a haven of comfort. It encourages longer, more enjoyable periods of relaxation, ensuring that everyone can rise from the bench without the telltale discomfort of inferior seating.
Armrests
Armrests contribute to the overall comfort and accessibility of the double chair bench. They provide support for the arms and shoulders, reducing strain during prolonged sitting. The height of the armrests should allow the arms to rest comfortably without lifting the shoulders or forcing the user into an unnatural position. Incorporating wide and flat armrests can also offer a convenient place for resting drinks or books, adding to the functionality of the double chair bench.
Material and Finishing Touches
The choice of material and the finish applied not only contribute to the durability and aesthetics of the double chair bench but also its ergonomic comfort. Materials with a smooth finish and rounded edges are preferable to prevent discomfort and the risk of injury from sharp corners. Additionally, the finish should be weather-resistant to ensure the bench remains comfortable and safe to use in different outdoor conditions.
By integrating these ergonomic considerations, the double chair bench can provide a comfortable, supportive, and enjoyable seating option for any outdoor setting. Whether for reading, socializing, or simply enjoying the outdoors, an ergonomically designed double-chair bench will be a cherished addition to any home.
Landscaping and Placement Tips
Integrating a double chair bench into your outdoor space not only adds a functional seating area but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of your garden, patio, or backyard. The placement and surrounding landscaping can transform a simple piece of furniture into a focal point or a cozy retreat. Here are some tips to consider when positioning your double chair bench and planning the surrounding landscape.
Consider the View
The primary allure of any outdoor seating is the view it offers. Position your double chair bench to face the most picturesque part of your garden or yard. This could be a flower bed in full bloom, a serene water feature, or the sprawling expanse of your lawn. If your outdoor space lacks a natural view, create one by arranging plants, sculptures, or decorative elements in the line of sight from the bench.
Leverage Natural Shade
Comfort is paramount when enjoying the outdoors. Place your double chair bench under the dappled shade of a tree to provide relief from the sun’s intensity. This natural canopy offers a cooler spot during hot days and adds an element of privacy and seclusion. If natural shade is sparse, consider installing a pergola or an umbrella that complements the design of the bench and the overall landscape.
Create a Conversation Nook
The double chair bench, by its design, encourages conversation and social interaction. Enhance this feature by positioning your bench in a secluded corner of your garden or patio, creating an intimate space for dialogue and relaxation. Surround the area with lush plants or a privacy screen to separate it from the rest of the outdoor space, making it an exclusive retreat.
Enhance with Soft Landscaping
Soft landscaping elements like plants, shrubs, and flowers can soften the appearance of the double chair bench and integrate it seamlessly into the garden. Consider planting aromatic herbs or flowering plants nearby to engage the senses. Ground cover plants can outline the space around the bench, while taller shrubs or small trees can provide a backdrop, adding depth and interest.
Utilize Hard Landscaping Features
Incorporate hard landscaping features such as paving stones, gravel, or decking to define the area around your double chair bench. These elements can demarcate the seating area from the rest of the garden, creating a dedicated space that invites relaxation. Choose materials and colors that complement the bench and the overall theme of your outdoor space.
Focus on Lighting
Proper lighting can extend the usability of your double chair bench into the evening. Solar-powered lights, lanterns, or LED string lights can add a magical ambiance to the area, making it a perfect spot for enjoying the cool of the evening. Position lights to highlight the bench and surrounding plants without overwhelming the space with brightness.
By considering these landscaping and placement tips, your double chair bench can become more than just a piece of furniture; it transforms into an integral part of your outdoor living experience, enhancing both the functionality and aesthetic of your space.
Conclusion
Building a double chair bench is a rewarding project that not only enhances your outdoor living space but also offers a comfortable and stylish spot for relaxation and socializing. By incorporating ergonomic considerations and thoughtful placement within your landscape, this bench can provide lasting comfort and become a cherished addition to any garden or patio. It’s a testament to the joy of DIY projects, blending functionality with personal style to create a unique piece that reflects the builder’s craftsmanship and attention to detail.
You can further boost the look of your porch apart from your double chair bench. Check out our five outdoor porch upgrade ideas next!
