Bench Seats

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Bench Seats

When it comes to in-booth seating, benches typically get a bad rap. That's because more often than not, the word "bench" conjures images of uncomfortable wooden affairs typically crammed against walls or sidelined at sporting events. But these negative notions are utterly undeserved, as benches can be not only comfortable but also stylish and sophisticated. To prove the point, here are six benches that are a far cry from hard or humdrum. By Linda Armstrong

Cardboard Cutouts
Exhibitor: Kubedesign srl
Show: EuroShop
Supplier: Kubedesign srl, Osimo, Italy, 39-071-7200013, www.kube-design.it

Who knew cardboard could be chic, elegant, and stylish? This cardboard creation by Kubedesign srl features a sturdy bench with a delicious curve, along with a round-topped table and chair, both of which show off the medium's ability to accept bold colors and prints.

Flying Solo
Exhibitor: Kane Carpet
Show: The International Surface Event
Supplier: ESF Wholesale Furniture, New York 718-442-7400, www.esfwholesalefurniture.com

Sometimes a single piece of furniture makes a statement all its own, but rarely is that sole element a bench. This piece, the Nelly Bench, breaks tradition. Comprising black tufted leather and metal legs, the 17-by-54-inch bench screams quiet sophistication without uttering a word.

Unfinished Business
Exhibitor: Visual Citi Inc.
Show: GlobalShop
Supplier: Visual Citi Inc., Lindenhurst, NY, 631-482-3030, www.visualciti.com

For custom retail-design firm Visual Citi Inc., a boring old bench just wouldn't do. That's why designers crafted this unfinished wood structure comprising an elevated base, a backrest structure that doubles as a display rack, and four interconnected slat-wall stools that form a cohesive bench.

The Royal Treatment
Exhibitor: Cort Exhibit House Furnishings
Show: EXHIBITORLIVE
Supplier: Cort Exhibit House Furnishings, Las Vegas, 855-663-2678, www.cortexhibithouse.com

Regal and refined, this two-person bench seat can add a cozy retreat to almost any exhibit. Able to symbolize multiple countries' flags, the colorful seat cushion is mirrored by a matching coffee table and throw pillows.

PHOTO: Tamooz Marketing Communications

Subway Stop
Exhibitor: Nipro Medical Corp.
Show: European Renal Association – European Dialysis and Transplant Association
Supplier: Tamooz Marketing Communications, Tel Aviv, Israel, 972-3-681-8885, www.tamooz.net

Meant to represent subway seats, these benches for Nipro Medical Corp. feature thick foam padding in a corporate blue hue. Wood and laminate bases and accompanying tables provide stability and ample room for eight people.

PHOTO: Tamooz Marketing Communications

An Upcycled Ensemble
Exhibitor: Keen Inc.
Show: Outdoor Retailer Summer Market
Supplier: Greenspace, Hillsboro, OR, 503-533-0500, www.greenspacegroup.net

This bench-based ensemble for Keen Inc. is perfect for a brand dead set on pleasing Mother Nature. Comprising wooden pallets and cushions covered in recycled auto upholstery, the benches offer a whimsical, "upcycled" vibe.