Do you want to give your kitchen or a bare corner in your home an extra dose of French style? If so consider adding a classic French banquette to the interior design of your space. A banquette is a small seating area often found in French design. The term comes from the French word un petit banc, which means a small bench.

Banquettes are great additions because they allow you to make a small space functional. What is even greater is that because you are using benches or bistro chairs you wont take up a lot of space when you use the area. So if you have a small, bare nook add a table and bench or two for the look of a booth, or a bistro table and chairs and enjoy dining at your French banquette. You can even take things up notch by using an antique french sofa or chair for seating, and don’t forget to use one of your French antiques as a centerpiece!

Check out these banquette designs for inspiration…

Images from Through the French Eye