Everyone Had It In The '60s: The Kitchen Seating That's Having A Comeback In 2026

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If you want to create a cozy kitchen, there's one retro trend that's making waves once again. Popular in the 1960s, cushioned banquettes could be found everywhere from diners to home kitchens. While modern banquettes don't all have vinyl seats and Formica tables, the concept remains the same: a comfortable built-in seating solution for casual dining and gathering. In 2026, these retro sets are a major vintage home design trend that is making a huge comeback.

The Gloss is just one of several design resources to put banquette seating on their list of favorite kitchen trends for 2026. Homes & Gardens also published a piece that dubbed kitchen banquettes the most coveted feature this year. In addition, SheerLuxe wrote that banquette kitchen islands are a trend to watch in 2026, urging homeowners and designers to consider a retro banquette in an unexpected place. These examples show that modern interpretations of the vintage banquette are popping up everywhere this year. From the cozy look to the timeless functionality, we love seeing this vintage kitchen trend being used today.

Banquette seating is not one size fits all. There are several different arrangement and styles to consider depending on your interior goals. L-shaped, U-shaped, or curved layouts can all work depending on the space. Banquettes can easily fill an awkward nook, empty corner, or bay window. Custom banquettes are also an option, but there are more affordable alternatives to achieve a similar look. For example, there are budget-friendly ways to easily DIY banquette seating that still looks luxe.

The simplest option is to use upholstered benches — especially those with interior compartments for some sneaky storage space. You don't have to be bound to a corner or even a wall, which makes the trend surprisingly versatile. If you want a more authentic look, you can source authentic 1960s banquettes from antique stores, reclamation yards, or secondhand marketplaces. If you want to start small, go for a settee like the Andeworld Loveseat Settee Bench that can be slid into any tight nook or unused corner. For a complete modern set, consider an all-in-one product like this Brafab Corner Dining Table Set.