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16+ Backyard Planter Box Ideas That Double as Seating

Backyard planter boxes aren’t just for growing herbs and flowers, they can also serve as stylish and functional seating. 

Combining greenery with comfort, these dual-purpose designs make the most of your outdoor space while adding natural beauty. 

Whether you have a compact patio or a spacious garden, these planter box seating ideas will bring both practicality and charm to your backyard.

1. Wooden Bench Planter Combo

A simple wooden bench flanked by two planter boxes on either side creates a natural and cozy seating nook.

Pro Tip: Use weather-treated wood like cedar or teak for durability and finish with neutral outdoor cushions.

2. L-Shaped Planter Seating

An L-shaped planter box setup provides corner seating while maximizing garden space — perfect for patios or small yards.

Pro Tip: Fill the planters with fragrant herbs or low-maintenance succulents for a refreshing touch.

3. Built-In Deck Planter Bench

Integrate planter boxes directly into your deck design for a seamless, custom-built look.

Pro Tip: Use matching wood for both the bench and deck to keep the design cohesive and modern.

4. Concrete Planter Seating

Sturdy and sleek, concrete planters with attached benches bring a modern industrial vibe to your backyard.

Pro Tip: Add soft cushions or wooden slats on top for warmth and comfort against the cool concrete.

5. Raised Planter Bench

Elevate your garden game with raised planter boxes that also serve as backrests for built-in seating.

Pro Tip: Choose tall flowering plants or ornamental grasses for privacy and visual height.

6. Modular Planter Seating System

Create a flexible seating area with movable planter boxes that can be rearranged for gatherings or quiet corners.

Pro Tip: Use lightweight composite materials so you can easily shift pieces as needed.

7. Cinder Block Planter Bench

Stack painted cinder blocks to form both seating supports and small planter sections — a fun and affordable DIY option.

Pro Tip: Mix and match block colors or use wood planks on top for a rustic yet modern finish.

8. Pallet Planter Lounge

Upcycle wooden pallets into a long bench with built-in planters on each side for a laid-back, eco-friendly vibe.

Pro Tip: Sand and stain the pallets for a polished look and add weatherproof cushions for comfort.

9. Stone Planter Perimeter Bench

Surround your patio with stone planter boxes topped with wide ledges that double as seating — ideal for larger gatherings.

Pro Tip: Incorporate LED strip lighting under the ledges for ambient nighttime glow.

10. Metal Frame Planter Seats

Use sleek metal frames with wooden tops and integrated planters for a minimalist, modern backyard setup.

Pro Tip: Pair matte black metal with warm-toned wood for a striking contrast.

11. Planter Bench with Storage

Combine function and style by building a planter bench with hidden storage underneath for cushions or garden tools.

Pro Tip: Use waterproof hinges and lining to keep your stored items safe from moisture.

12. Curved Planter Seating

Curved planter benches add softness and flow to your backyard layout, wrapping around flower beds or fire pits beautifully.

Pro Tip: Plant low, colorful blooms or creeping vines for a natural border effect.

13. Planter Bench Around a Tree

Build a circular planter box around a tree with a built-in bench for shade and serenity.

Pro Tip: Use reclaimed wood for a rustic charm and surround the base with small groundcover plants.

14. Vertical Planter Seating Wall

Combine a vertical garden wall with a narrow bench below for a refreshing, space-saving green corner.

Pro Tip: Grow herbs, ferns, or small flowers for an easy-care and visually stunning backdrop.

15. Tiered Planter Bench Design

Add dimension to your garden with tiered planter benches — perfect for layering different plant heights.

Pro Tip: Use the lower tiers for seating and upper tiers for colorful blooms or decorative grasses.

16. Built-In Fire Pit Planter Bench

Surround your fire pit with planter boxes that include built-in benches — a cozy and beautiful setup for gatherings.

Pro Tip: Choose heat-resistant plants like succulents or stonecrop varieties for areas close to the fire.

17. Minimalist Concrete and Wood Combo

Pair concrete planter bases with smooth wooden bench tops for a clean, modern design that fits any backyard style.

Pro Tip: Keep plants simple — a single type of ornamental grass or lavender adds understated elegance.

Final Thoughts

Planter box seating is the perfect blend of nature and function — giving you greenery, beauty, and a place to relax all in one. 

Whether you choose rustic wood, sleek concrete, or creative upcycled materials, these designs can transform your backyard into a more inviting, multi-purpose space. 

Add cushions, lighting, and your favorite plants to make it truly your own.

Jerry
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