A shoe bench combines two essential hallway needs in one clever piece of furniture. A comfortable seat for putting shoes on and taking them off, and convenient storage space for the footwear itself. Discover our collection of shoe benches and find the model that will make your hallway more complete and functional.
Shoe benches: seating comfort and storage space in one
A shoe bench is the smartest multifunctional choice for the hallway. It combines the comfort of a seat with the functionality of a shoe organiser, without needing two separate pieces of furniture. This makes it ideal for hallways where space is scarce but function and style are still a priority. At MooierThuis, you will find shoe benches in all sizes, styles and designs, from compact and minimalist to wide and generous with plenty of storage space. For every hallway and every household.
What makes a shoe bench different from a hallway bench or shoe rack?
A shoe bench is specifically designed to combine seating and shoe storage in one piece of furniture. This distinguishes it from a hallway bench, which is primarily a seating unit with possibly some storage space, and from a shoe rack, which only offers storage space without a seating function. A shoe bench always has an integrated system for storing shoes, such as open compartments under the seat, a drawer or a tilt system. This makes it more compact and versatile than the two separate alternatives.
Types of shoe benches: which one is right for you?
Shoe bench with open compartments
The most common variant has open compartments under the seat where shoes are stored directly visible and accessible. Shoes can be quickly retrieved without opening doors. This makes this variant particularly practical for intensive daily use. The disadvantage is that the shoes are visible, even if they are placed somewhat messily. Choose this variant if accessibility is the priority.
Shoe bench with doors or flap doors
A shoe bench with doors or flap doors neatly stores shoes behind a closed front. This gives the hallway a calmer and tidier appearance than an open variant. The doors also better protect the shoes from dust. Choose this variant if a neat and tidy hallway is a priority and you prefer to keep shoes hidden.
Shoe bench with hinged seat
A shoe bench with a hinged seat has storage space hidden under the seat that you open by flipping the seat up. Similar to an ottoman or a storage bench. This variant offers a large undivided storage space that is also suitable for items other than shoes, such as bags, scarves or umbrellas. It looks sleek and simple from the outside while offering plenty of storage space inside.
Wide shoe bench for multiple people
A wide shoe bench, 100 to 150 cm wide, not only offers more storage space but also seating for two people side by side. Ideal for families with children where multiple people use the hallway at the same time. Combine a wide shoe bench with a wall coat rack above the bench for a complete and efficient hallway solution that utilises the entire wall.
Styles and materials: the perfect shoe bench for every hallway
Shoe benches come in a wide variety of styles and materials. A wooden or bamboo shoe bench gives the hallway a warm, Scandinavian or rural atmosphere. A model with an upholstered seat in faux leather or fabric is more comfortable and has a warmer appearance than a hard wooden seat. In the hallway, preferably choose a stain-resistant treated upholstery or a faux leather seat that is easy to clean with a damp cloth.
For a modern or industrial hallway, choose a shoe bench with a metal frame in black or matte steel combined with a wooden or upholstered seat. A white shoe bench is timeless and makes a small hallway feel larger and brighter. Combine it with a matching wall coat rack in the same colour for a cohesive and neat hallway look.
Choosing the right size shoe bench
When choosing the right size shoe bench, there are a few practical points to consider:
Width: a shoe bench 60 to 80 cm wide offers sufficient seating space for one person and fits in most hallways. For two seats side by side, choose a model 100 to 120 cm wide.
Seat height: the ideal seat height for a shoe bench is 45 to 50 cm. This is comfortable to sit on and easy to get up from, even for the elderly or people with knee problems.
Depth: a depth of 30 to 40 cm is sufficient for most shoe benches. A deeper bench takes up more floor space but also offers more seating comfort and larger storage space for shoes.
Storage capacity: check how many pairs of shoes the bench can hold. For open compartments, this is always stated in the product description. Take into account larger shoe sizes that take up more space per compartment.
Smartly combining a shoe bench in the hallway
A shoe bench is most effective as part of a well-thought-out hallway solution. Hang a wall coat rack centred above the shoe bench for coats and bags. Add a key rack to the wall next to the bench for keys and small items. And combine the bench with a compact shoe cabinet next to it for shoes you use less often. Hang a mirror on the wall for a spacious effect and a final check before you leave. With this combination, your hallway will be complete, functional and stylishly furnished.
Combine your shoe bench for a complete hallway
Wall coat racks — hang a wall coat rack above the shoe bench for a complete hallway solution
Shoe cabinets — closed addition for shoes used less often
Shoe racks — open addition for daily used shoes next to the bench
Slipper racks — compact rack for slippers right by the door
At MooierThuis, you can easily order your shoe bench online. All dimensions, storage capacities and materials are clearly stated per product. We deliver quickly throughout the Netherlands and Belgium. Do you have a question about the right size or type of shoe bench for your hallway? Our customer service will be happy to help you.
Frequently asked questions about shoe benches
What is the difference between a shoe bench and a hallway bench?
A shoe bench always has an integrated system for storing shoes, such as open compartments, doors or a hinged seat. A hallway bench is primarily a seating unit and does not always have a specific shoe storage function. A shoe bench is therefore the most functional and compact choice if you want to both sit and store shoes. A hallway bench is a better choice if seating comfort is the priority and shoe storage is arranged separately.
How many pairs of shoes fit in an average shoe bench?
That depends on the width of the bench and the type of storage system. A shoe bench 80 cm wide with two open compartments usually offers space for 6 to 10 pairs of shoes. A wider bench of 120 cm offers space for 12 to 18 pairs. With a hinged seat, the capacity depends on the internal dimensions of the storage space. Always check the stated capacity in the product description before ordering.
Is an upholstered shoe bench easy to maintain in the hallway?
That depends on the upholstery material. A faux leather seat is the most maintenance-friendly and easy to clean with a damp cloth. Fabric upholstery with a stain-resistant treatment is also a good choice for the hallway. In the hallway, preferably choose a stain-resistant or easy-to-clean upholstery, as the chance of dirt and moisture is greater than elsewhere in the house.
Can I also use a shoe bench as a regular bench in other rooms?
Yes, a stylish shoe bench with an upholstered seat also works well as a seating bench at the foot of the bed in the bedroom, as extra seating in an office or as a decorative accent in a corridor or landing. Choose a model with a finished back and nice upholstery if you want to use the bench outside the hallway as a piece of interior decor.
How high should the wall coat rack be hung above a shoe bench?
Hang the wall coat rack so that the lowest hook is at a minimum height of 150 to 160 cm, measured from the floor. This is high enough for an average coat and low enough for easy reach. Ensure that the bottom hook is at least 30 to 40 cm above the seat of the shoe bench so that coats do not drag across the seat. Also consider the length of coats and jackets you want to hang when determining the ideal height.
