Why Every Coastal Entryway Makeover Needs a Woven Bench
A coastal entryway bench! It’s Stylish, Functional, and Makes Every Space Feel Instantly Pulled Together!
I’ll be honest—my front entry? It’s not our daily in-and-out spot. Like a lot of people, we actually come and go through the garage entry on the other side of the house. Which means the front door? Kind of a forgotten land.
It’s where guests come in, where delivery people drop packages, and where we hang the cute seasonal wreath (even though we rarely use the door ourselves). And because of that, it’s easy to bypass when thinking about freshening up decor.
But here’s the thing: In most homes, the entryway is in plain view from multiple rooms. Even if you don’t use it daily, it’s seen daily—so making it feel fresh, airy, and intentional is worth it.
And if you’re struggling on choosing the right one… and how to style it, I’ve got you. Read on for selecting and styling your bench.
Why Every Coastal Entryway Needs a Woven Bench
If I had to choose just one thing to instantly pull together a coastal-style entryway, it’s a woven bench.
Here’s why:
It adds warmth and texture
Coastal spaces thrive on natural materials. Woven elements like rattan, seagrass, and cane bring that breezy, relaxed feel without overpowering the space.
It’s functional (even if you don’t use the entry every day!)
Whether it’s a place for guests to sit while taking off shoes, toss their purse, or just a beautifully styled moment, a woven bench makes your entry feel thoughtful instead of forgotten.
It works with any coastal style
Whether your home leans toward nautical blues, laid-back lake house vibes, or soft, sandy neutrals, a woven bench blends right in. It’s the perfect foundation piece that adapts to your style over time.
It anchors the space
If your entryway feels a little blah, a woven bench gives it a natural focal point to build around. Add a few accessories, and suddenly it’s a space that feels finished.
Now that you’re sold on the why, let’s talk about picking the right one.
How to Choose the Perfect Woven Bench for Your Space
Not all woven benches are created equal! Here’s what to consider before you buy:
Go Open-Bottom for Tight Spaces or Small Entryways
A bench with legs instead of a solid base lets light pass through, making your entryway feel bigger and airier. Bonus: You can tuck a basket underneath for storage without it feeling cluttered.
Look for a Sturdy Frame
Woven materials like rattan and seagrass are beautiful but can be delicate. Look for a bench with a solid wood or metal frame underneath for durability—especially if you actually plan to sit on it (versus just styling it).
Pick a Neutral or Soft Blue Tone for this Entryway Makeover
Stick with natural wood, whitewashed finishes, or soft blues for that effortless coastal look. Dark or overly warm tones (like deep mahogany) can feel too heavy.
Want to make sure your bench blends beautifully into your coastal color scheme? Whether you love airy neutrals, soft blues, or sandy tones, this guide to home color schemes for coastal interiors has all the inspiration you need!
Decide on Cushion vs. No Cushion
This is where things get fun!
A woven seat without a cushion gives a more relaxed, organic look, keeping things simple and streamlined.
But if you know me—or have followed me for a while—you know I can’t resist a good fabric moment! A bench with a cushion gives you the perfect opportunity to work in a little color or a fun pattern without adding extra “stuff.”
- 💙 Go for soft blue stripes for that classic coastal feel.
- 🌿 Try a subtle botanical print (something with palms, maybe) for a fresh, airy look.
- ✨ Feeling playful? Block prints or textured linen add personality while keeping things breezy and effortless. Or imagine the easy, relaxed vibe of a fun denim or ikat print—effortlessly coastal and full of character! Here’s an example.
Love this idea? Keep it handy.
Email this to yourself so it’s ready when you are!
And the best part? If you ever want a refresh, just swap out the cushion cover for an entirely new look—zero commitment required!
Check the Weave Style
A tighter, structured weave (like seagrass) gives a polished look, while a looser, more textured weave (like handwoven rattan) leans more casual and relaxed. If you love a breezy, lake-house feel, go for a looser weave!
Once you’ve found the right bench, let’s make it shine.
How to Build Around Your Bench for the Perfect Coastal Look
Once your woven bench is in place, here are a few simple add-ons that take your entryway from just fine to flawlessly styled and functional:
🌿 A Tall Plant (Real or Faux)
A little greenery goes a long way in making a space feel fresh. A potted olive tree, palm, or even faux eucalyptus adds height and softness.
🌊 A Beachy Rug in a Soft Blue Pattern
A subtle blue rug (think faded stripes, a washed-out medallion, or even a simple jute with blue trim) grounds the space and adds just the right amount of coastal color.
🧺 A Large Basket on Top
This is your secret weapon for keeping those “I-need-to-grab-this-before-I-leave” items contained. Think:
- Amazon return packages that need to go to UPS
- A library book that needs to be dropped off
- A water bottle your son definitely should take to school
- That scarf you meant to grab but forgot last time
This keeps everything in one spot without looking like a dumping ground.
A new woven bench is a great start, but if you’re looking for more easy ways to refresh your home, check out 30 Easy Room Transformations for simple styling ideas you can implement today!
Don’t Forget the Mirror (Your Guests Will Thank You)
✨ Hang a mirror above your bench—driftwood, round, or oversized—to reflect light and make the space feel bigger. This rattan one is GORGEOUS!
💡 Bonus: Your guests will secretly love it! I can’t tell you how many times someone has walked in, caught a glimpse of themselves, and instinctively smoothed their hair, adjusted a scarf, or checked to make sure there wasn’t something stuck in their teeth!
A well-placed mirror isn’t just stylish—it’s practical for those last-second touch-ups after battling the elements!
A woven bench makes your entryway feel intentional, but the same styling principles apply throughout your home!
If you’re looking for more ways to pull a space together with natural textures and coastal accents, check out my guide to styling a coastal coffee table—it’s all about layering pieces for a perfectly curated (but effortless) look.
Where to Find a Great Woven Bench
Ready to add a woven bench to your coastal entryway? I’ve pulled together some of my favorites that combine style, function, and a little extra charm.
Whether you’re looking for natural textures or something with handy storage, these picks have you covered.
- Seagrass Bench Seat with Bottom Storage
- Amber Wood and Natural Seagrass Bench
- Wicker Storage Bench with Cushion
- Bench with Grid Storage & Basket
- Leather Weave Bench (I’m especially obsessed with the White/Oak version!)
- Boho Coastal Rattan Storage Bench (the arms are delightful!)
If you’re eyeing something upholstered, these next picks may not be woven, but their cozy finishes totally make up for it—and I’m obsessed with how stylish they are!
- White Wash Wood with Navy Upholstery Bench
- Upholstered Flip-Top Storage Bench
- Boho Upholstered Storage Bench
- Seashell Upholstered Ottoman Bench
If your entryway has been feeling off, this is the piece that pulls it all together. It’s got that breezy, natural, coastal charm—without feeling overdone.
Would you add a woven bench to your entryway? Already have one? Tell me below or shoot me an email — I’d love to hear (and see!) how you style yours!
