How to Measure an L-Shaped Floating Bench (The Simple Formula)

Custom floating benches only work when measurements are right.
If your numbers are off, installation becomes difficult and fabrication delays happen.

This is the exact formula HF Atelier uses to measure corner banquettes and L-shaped floating benches. DOWNLOAD OUR WORKSHEET

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Step 1. Measure at seat height - not the floor

Floors are rarely perfectly level.
Always measure where the seat will actually sit.

1. Mark a level line 14 inches up from the floor on both walls

2. Measure each wall along that line

3. Label them clearly

LEFT wall = ___
RIGHT wall = ___

Now subtract 1 inch from each wall for install clearance.

Example
Left wall 80 → 79
Right wall 60 → 59

These are your working dimensions.

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Step 2. Choose your bench details first

Before calculating lengths, decide:

Seat depth
20"
22"
24"

If adding a backrest, usable depth becomes about 3" less.

Backrest height
None
12" demi
16" full

Style
Classic
Channel
Scalloped
Horizontal ribs

Material
Leather
Vegan leather
Velvet

These choices affect your final return measurement.

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Step 3. Calculate the bench lengths

Main bench

The shorter wall becomes the main bench.

Example
Short wall after subtraction = 59"
Main bench = 59"

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Return bench

The return bench runs along the longer wall and connects into the main bench.

Use this formula:

Long wall measurement
− 2" corner connection
− seat depth

Example
79 − 2 = 77
77 − 22 = 55

Return bench = 55"

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Final example layout

Main bench: 59"
Return bench: 55"
Seat depth: 22"

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Why this matters

Floating benches are built to the inch.
Measuring at seat height and using this formula ensures:

• clean corner fit

• easier install

• accurate fabrication

• no costly rework

This is the same method used for HF Atelier projects in kitchens, dining nooks, wine rooms, and restaurants.


GET A CUSTOM QUOTE for CORNER SEATS