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If you are looking to use a banquette in your kitchen, here are a few tips to consider:

• Decide whether the banquette is a focal point in the kitchen, or a transitional feature between the kitchen and another room.
  
• Don’t build it in the middle of the primary traffic flow – for example, the path between the refrigerator, stove, and sink, or the main entry to the kitchen.
  
• Plan on seating four-to-six people in approximately 200 square feet of space.
  
• Make sure the bench is not too deep relative to the table. Otherwise people will have a hard time reaching it.
  
• The seat backs vary in height, based on your preference. The range is usually 36 to 48 inches.
  
• Since it’s a prime eating spot, choose fabrics that clean easily, or design your banquette with removable cushions and washable slipcovers.

[2nd photo via Cottage Living 6/2008]

Check out more seating ideas at Apartment Therapy:

• Snille Chair at Ikea
  
• Scavenger: Paul McCobb dining table and 4 chairs for $1100
  
• Is There A Place For a Formal Dining Room In a Modern Home?