How Do Custom Forest Benches Transform Outdoor Spaces?

Benches are an excellent addition to any outdoor space, especially in forested areas. They provide a comfortable and relaxing place to sit and take in a natural beauty surrounding you. However, standard benches can be bland and unremarkable. That’s where custom forest benches come in.

The Outwoods, a 110-acre ancient woodland, stands as one of the oldest surviving woodland sites in Charnwood. The Outwoods offers a range of different routes and walks, including an easy access path with a bird feeding station. Surely, people of ages will enjoy a custom forest bench once they see it along the way.

The custom forest benches in The Outwood are meticulously handcrafted by skilled craftsmen and women from Charnwood, working in collaboration with Charnwood Arts and Charnwood Forest Geopark. The project was made possible by the generous support of the National Lottery Community Fund in 2022.

There’s something special about sitting on a bench in a forest, surrounded by the natural beauty of the outdoors. It’s a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, a place to slow down and connect with nature. And when that bench is a custom-made creation that blends seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, it becomes a truly unique and meaningful experience.

Custom forest benches can elevate your outdoor experience by creating a unique and personalized seating option. They often have different styles, but the most frequently seen are carved benches.

4 Carving Styles for Custom Forest Benches

When customizing your forest bench, one of the most important decisions is the carving style. The carving style can determine the overall aesthetic of the bench, as well as its durability and functionality. Here are four popular carving styles to consider:

1. Animal Carving

This style is great for those who want to incorporate wildlife into their bench design.

It involves carving animal shapes or features into the wood to create a fun and whimsical look.

Animal carving can include anything from a simple bird shape to a more detailed animal figure.

This style is perfect for those who want to create a bench that adds a playful touch to the outdoor space.

2. Traditional Carving

This style is a classic and timeless design. It involves hand-carving intricate patterns and details into the wood to create a unique and eye-catching look.

Traditional carving styles can include a variety of designs, from floral patterns to Celtic knots.

These intricate patterns require skill and precision to create, making them a true work of art. This type of carving is also used in memorials for dead people.

The custom forest benches in The Outwoods have carvings of forest animals, which connect you more with nature.

3. Rustic Carving

Rustic carving involves using natural materials and techniques to create a more organic and natural look. This style can feature tree branches or other natural elements to give it a more rustic and earthy appearance.

Rustic carving can also include simple, straight lines that mimic the natural patterns found in the forest.

This style is perfect for those who want to create a bench that blends seamlessly into the natural surroundings.

4. Modern Carving

Modern carving is a more minimalist and contemporary approach to bench design.

It often features sleek lines and geometric shapes that give the bench a modern and updated look.

This style is great for those who want to create a bench that stands out and makes a bold statement.

Modern carving can also include asymmetrical designs, creating a unique and eye-catching look.

Transforming Outdoor Spaces With Custom Forest Benches

Custom forest benches offer several benefits over pre-made benches. Here are a few reasons why you should consider customizing your forest bench:

• Unique Designs and Personalization

With a custom bench, you can create a design that is unique to your taste and personality. You can choose the carving style, wood type, and colour that best suits your style and preferences. This level of personalization ensures that your bench stands out and is a true reflection of your individuality.

• Comfort and Durability

Custom benches are built to last and are made with high-quality materials that ensure durability and comfort. You can choose the type of wood, cushioning, and other features to create a comfortable seating option that will withstand the elements. This level of comfort and durability ensures that your bench will be a long-lasting investment that you can enjoy for years to come.

• Environmentally Friendly

Customizing your bench means you can choose sustainable and eco-friendly materials. You can also choose to work with a local craftsman to reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation. This level of sustainability ensures that your bench is not only a beautiful addition to your outdoor space but also a responsible one.

• Enhances the Aesthetic Appeal of the Forest

Custom forest benches can enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the forest. A unique and well-designed bench can blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings and add a touch of beauty to the environment. This level of beauty ensures that the forest is not only a place for recreation and relaxation but also a place for inspiration and creativity.

What Are the Design Considerations for Custom Forest Benches?

When designing a custom forest bench, there are several considerations to keep in mind to ensure that the final product is functional and aesthetically pleasing. Here are a few things to consider:

Purpose of the Forest Bench

The first thing to consider is the purpose of the bench. Will it be used for picnics, relaxation, or both? This will determine the size, shape, and additional features of the bench.

Location and Environment

The location and environment of the bench will also play a role in the design. If the bench is located in a sunny area, it may require a canopy or other shading options. If the bench is located in a damp or humid area, it may require special treatment to prevent rotting or damage.

Size and Shape

The size and shape of the bench will depend on the intended use and the available space. Consider the number of people that the bench needs to accommodate and the available space in the surrounding area.

Additional Features

Additional features such as armrests, backrests, and cup holders can add comfort and functionality to the bench. Consider these features when designing your bench to ensure that it meets your specific needs.

When it comes to creating a custom-made bench, the possibilities for creativity are endless. You can choose from a variety of materials, shapes, sizes, and colours to make your bench unique and tailored to your business.

Take a look at this classic example from Kit Kat:

Custom Made Forest Bench: A Marketing Tool?

Custom forest benches can be a powerful marketing tool for businesses looking to promote their brand in a unique and memorable way. By placing branded or personalized benches in outdoor spaces such as parks, trails, and nature reserves, businesses can reach their target audience in a relaxed and natural environment, creating a positive association with their brand.

With their durability and long-lasting appeal, custom forest benches can also provide a cost-effective way to promote a business’s message for years to come. It is an innovative and effective way to stand out from the crowd and make a lasting impression on potential customers.

On top of the forest bench, our team also spotted orienteering signs around the area. These forest signages are markers or symbols used in orienteering to help participants navigate through a course.

Learn more about them and be guided on forest signages through this comprehensive guide we prepared for you!

What’s Our Take On Outdoor Marketing?

When it comes to promoting your brand and attracting customers, it’s important to think about the impact your marketing efforts can have. One effective strategy is to use shade advertising products to provide your customers with a comfortable experience while also promoting your brand.

By offering shade products like umbrellas, awnings, or canopies, you can give your customers a break from the sun or rain and make their experience with your brand more enjoyable. You would love to see our list here!

Maximize your brand’s exposure and connect with your audience on the streets where they live, work, and play. With strategically placed benches, kiosks, and bus shelters, you can create a powerful and lasting impression that leaves a tangible mark in the minds of consumers.

Overall,

Customizing forest benches can provide numerous benefits and unique design opportunities, from adding comfort and durability to enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the surrounding environment. Whether you’re a business looking to promote your brand or an individual looking to personalize your outdoor space, custom forest benches can offer a long-lasting and functional seating option that’s perfect for any occasion.

So why not unleash your creativity and start designing your own customized forest bench today?

Harness Our Creativity!

At ODM, our team specializes in providing outdoor marketing services that can help your business reach its target audience effectively. We have a wealth of experience in creating and implementing marketing strategies that utilize various outdoor media, such as street furniture, flag banners, advertising panels, games, and more!

Our team of merchandising experts will work closely with you to develop a customised promotional solution that aligns with your business objectives and budget. We understand that every business is unique, and we strive to create tailored solutions that meet your specific needs and goals.

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