Need some seating / bench ideas.

[slickgt1]

Hi all.

Ok so I want to build some cedar benches for my significant other. We have a 20'x8' concrete deck on our second floor. (yea city code is gay) It feels very cold, appearance wise. We both want to put wood items on it to warm it up.

She wants a wraparound U bench that will fill an 8' x 8' space. I was thinking of making something that looks like park benches, but not sure if that has enough character.

Can you guys post up some pics of benches you have, or have made? I would be glad to steal some of your creative ideas if you don't mind.

Thanks in advance.

Oh, I know it is not a garage thread, but I will be building it in my garage. lol.

 

[r6_cannibal]

I was recently doing a search for this as well. i did a google search and came up with a lot of really great ideas. most of the first ones on the page had a very warm and inviting feel. I haven't built anything yet, but here's the link i followed to get most of my ideas:
images.google.com/wrap_around_bench

 

[slickgt1]

Thanks cannibal. The more I look at the pictures, the more I am leaning to making some metal frames. Unless someone knows where to buy some cheap. Thanks.

 

[steel 35]

Check out flip top bench tables. They can be very nice if you have a set.

 

[srmofo]

I suggest making it modular so you can rearrange as needed

 

[pysen78]

Could you also cover the concrete with wood decking? I've done that with concrete balconies in the past.

Fabricating a metal frame is a good way of reaching professional looks to home built furniture. Be sure to work with proper materials depending on climate/humidity in your area. Around here you need to work with acidproff stainless, or heat galvanized steel to not have it rust through in a few years. In dryer climates maybe rustproof paint will do.

 

[slickgt1]

Thanks all.

Yes I plan on making it modular. The space is not that big, and when there will be a gathering of people, I will have to move it all in one line. I plan on making two corner sections and 3 five foot long benches.

Unfortunately I do not have a welder, or any easy access to one. I have only welded 3 times in my life, and none of it looked pretty. I always wanted one, but my house is retarded with only 100A service.

I looked into buying some metal frames, but the prices are also retarded. I see $190 per leg for SS. I need 10 minimum. Yea, wood will have to do. I am going to stop by a local metal shop to see what they will charge, but I don't have high hopes.

I can cover the deck with wood, but not sure this is how I want to start right now. I still have my garage to finish, and an insane list of other projects. But yea, that will happen in the future as well.

I like the flip top benches. I can make that out of wood. Keep the ideas coming. Thanks.