Project Summary:
The Coln Bench is a large steam-bent oak garden bench with a flowing curved backrest designed to comfortably seat five people outdoors.
Project type: Bespoke/ Freestanding Furniture/Outdoor
Location: Cotswolds
Client: Commercial
Materials: British Oak
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Named after the river that runs through the exhibition gardens where it was first presented, the Coln Bench is a large outdoor bench defined by flowing geometry and considered construction. Designed to seat five comfortably, it balances generous scale with a sense of openness and restraint.
The backrest is formed from steam-bent oak, shaped into a continuous arc that gently encircles the sitters. This curve provides both physical support and a subtle sense of enclosure, allowing the bench to feel settled within a landscape setting. The flowing line of the back contrasts with the regular rhythm of the slatted seat, creating a dialogue between movement and order within the overall form.
The bench is crafted from locally sourced oak grown on the Badminton Estate in Wiltshire. The choice of timber reflects both durability and context. Oak is well suited to outdoor use, with its natural tannins contributing to longevity when exposed to the elements. The slatted seat allows water to drain freely, reducing standing moisture and supporting long-term performance.
A carved texture is introduced along the backrest, breaking up the uniformity of the timber surface. This subtle intervention adds depth and tactility without disrupting the clarity of the overall design. Rather than aiming for perfect smoothness, the carved surface retains a sense of the hand, reinforcing the bench’s crafted quality.
Proportion has been carefully resolved to ensure comfort across the full length of the bench. The seat depth and back angle are set to provide relaxed support, whether the bench is positioned at a viewpoint, along a terrace or around a table. Its scale allows it to function as a focal point within a garden while remaining practical for everyday use.
Stainless steel fixings are used throughout to prevent corrosion in exterior conditions. The bench is finished with an outdoor oil that enhances the natural golden tone of the oak while offering additional protection. Over time, if left exposed, the timber will weather and gradually soften in colour, developing a silvered surface typical of oak in outdoor settings.
While robust in construction, the bench benefits from considered placement. Positioning it beneath a pergola or veranda, or in a sheltered area of the garden, will help extend the life of the finish and maintain the warmth of the timber.
The Coln Bench was made for the Fresh Air Sculpture Show 2024 and reflects an approach that values local materials, durable joinery and a clear relationship between form and landscape. By combining steam-bent oak, slatted construction and restrained detailing, the design achieves a piece that is both practical and quietly expressive within an outdoor environment.
