Wooden picnic benches for landscapers: Elevate spaces with sustainable seating

When it comes to creating welcoming outdoor spaces with a focus on eco-friendliness, wooden picnic benches stand out as a top-notch sustainable seating option. These benches strike the perfect balance between environmental responsibility and visual charm.

Crafted from renewable and responsibly sourced timber, wooden picnic benches showcase a dedication to sustainability, minimising the carbon footprint of public spaces. However, their timeless design and natural warmth ensure they seamlessly complement any landscape setting, blending harmoniously with their surroundings. Let’s talk about why you should consider wood for your outdoor furniture tables and benches​.

Why choose wooden picnic benches?

The United Kingdom’s woodland area is estimated at 3.28 million hectares as of March 2024, with 44% (1.44 million hectares) independently certified as sustainably managed. This highlights the growing importance of using responsibly sourced wood in projects, reflecting sustainability and environmental stewardship. Picnic benches made from wood fit seamlessly into this narrative, offering an eco-friendly alternative that supports councils and trusts in meeting their green building standards.

Natural materials like wood reduce environmental impact and integrate beautifully into various landscapes. Wood’s adaptability shines through, from the rustic allure of rural parks to the refined grace of city spaces. Be it a timeless picnic table with benches for family get-togethers or a picnic bench with an umbrella for shaded leisure, these wooden offerings ensure they blend seamlessly with a site’s natural charm while cultivating an inviting, eco-friendly ambience.

Take, for example, the transformation of Beckenham Place Park in London. Made by Landmark supplied picnic benches and tables that turned this urban park into a greener oasis for visitors to enjoy. These installations align with the vision of landscape architects, blending functionality with sustainable design, and meeting public expectations for environmentally friendly spaces.

Factors for landscape architects to consider

As a stakeholder, you need to balance aesthetics, functionality, and environmental responsibility when selecting materials for outdoor installations. Here are the things to consider when buying garden bench tables:

Material quality and durability

For outdoor benches, hardwoods like oak, teak, and cedar are the top picks. These sturdy materials naturally resist decay, insects, and weathering, making them ideal for outdoor use. Oak, in particular, is a long-lasting choice, while teak is known for its exceptional durability and moisture resistance, making it a favourite for outdoor furniture. For installations like a picnic bench with an umbrella, these durable hardwoods ensure stability and longevity, even in changing weather conditions.

To further extend the lifespan of wooden benches, weatherproofing treatments such as sealants, stains, or varnishes can be applied. These protective coatings act as a barrier against moisture, UV rays, and other environmental factors, preventing warping, cracking, and discolouration. Well-maintained and treated wooden benches can last for decades, with an average lifespan of 15-20 years or more. In contrast, untreated wooden benches may only last 5-10 years before showing significant signs of wear and tear.

Environmental impact

A Forest Stewardship Council or FSC certification is a crucial factor to consider when selecting wooden benches. This certification ensures that the timber used in the benches comes from responsibly managed forests, promoting sustainable forestry practices and protecting biodiversity. By choosing FSC-certified wood, you can be confident that your project contributes to preserving natural habitats and minimising environmental impact.

Aesthetic versatility and customisation

Wooden benches offer a high degree of aesthetic versatility and customisation options to match the design scheme of any project. The natural beauty and warmth of wood can seamlessly blend with various architectural styles and landscaping themes, from contemporary urban settings to rustic nature preserves.

For projects that require a unique or historical aesthetic, they can be custom-designed and crafted to match specific design requirements. For instance, in the restoration of a heritage park, these benches were often meticulously crafted from reclaimed wood, preserving the historical character and charm of the site. The versatility of wood also allows for various finishing options, such as smooth or distressed textures, natural or stained colours, and intricate carvings or engravings, ensuring that the benches complement the overall aesthetic vision of the project.

Maintenance and longevity

Wood picnic tables don’t require excessive maintenance, making them a practical and cost-effective choice for landscapers and architects. Unlike some materials that require frequent repainting or refinishing, well-treated wooden benches can maintain their appearance with minimal effort. Annual resealing or refinishing may be required to protect the wood from the elements and extend its lifespan. However, this maintenance is relatively simple and can be easily incorporated into regular landscaping routines.

The bottom line

Wooden picnic benches offer an attractive blend of eco-conscious design, timeless good looks, and robust durability, making them an excellent choice for public spaces. These benches don’t just beautify outdoor areas; they align perfectly with today’s sustainability objectives, providing a considerate and responsible solution for creating inviting environments.

As a leading outdoor furniture provider, Made by Landmark offers a wide selection of timber picnic benches designed to meet your project’s sustainability and design goals. Find out how our expertly crafted solutions can enhance outdoor space projects while supporting eco-friendly practices.