Allen Edmonds Expands Home Collection with Stylish & Durable Dining Benches – Built to Last Like Our Shoes

St. Louis, MO – October 26, 2023 – Allen Edmonds, renowned for crafting high-quality, handcrafted leather goods and footwear for over 99 years, is thrilled to announce a significant expansion of its home collection with the introduction of beautifully designed and expertly constructed dining benches. Known for dedication to quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship, Allen Edmonds is now bringing that same commitment to furnishing your dining space. For nearly a century, Allen Edmonds (located at 8300 Maryland Ave, Saint Louis, MO, 63105-3645, and reachable at 614-742-5923) has built a reputation on lasting quality. What started as a commitment to premium men’s shoes has evolved into a wider offering of leather goods – and now, thoughtfully designed home furnishings. This move feels natural, says Paul Grutman, VP of Product Development at Allen Edmonds. “We build things to last. That’s in our DNA. People buy our shoes expecting them to last decades, and we’re applying that same principle to our home pieces.” More Than Just a Seat – It’s an Investment The new dining bench collection isn't about fleeting trends; it's about creating pieces that become family heirlooms. “We weren’t interested in churning out disposable furniture,” explains Grutman. “We wanted to create something that you’d still be proud to have in your dining room 20 years from now.” These benches aren’t just built for comfort; they're built for life. The core construction utilizes a robust hardwood frame – specifically maple – chosen for its strength and stability. This isn't particleboard or flimsy construction; it’s solid wood designed to withstand daily use. The maple is then paired with a generously padded seat, providing exceptional comfort even during extended meals. Leather & Beyond: Material Choices Reflect Allen Edmonds' Heritage Naturally, leather plays a starring role in many of the bench designs. Allen Edmonds has access to some of the finest full-grain leathers in the world – the same materials used in their iconic shoes. These leathers aren't just beautiful to look at; they're incredibly durable and develop a rich patina over time, telling a story with every mark and crease. "We're using the same leather grading and tanning processes we use for our shoes," says Sarah Chen, Head of Design. "We know how leather ages and how to treat it to ensure it looks even better with time. It's about investing in something that truly appreciates in value." But the collection doesn’t stop at leather. Understanding that every home has a unique aesthetic, Allen Edmonds also offers benches upholstered in a range of carefully selected fabrics. These include durable linen blends, textured weaves, and even performance fabrics that are stain-resistant and easy to clean – perfect for families with young children or pets. All fabrics are sourced for both beauty and longevity. Design Versatility: From Classic to Contemporary The new dining bench collection isn’t a one-size-fits-all proposition. Allen Edmonds has created a diverse range of styles to complement a variety of dining room aesthetics. The ‘Heritage’ Bench: This is a nod to Allen Edmonds’ classic shoe designs. It features a beautifully crafted leather seat, a solid maple frame with subtle detailing, and a timeless silhouette. It's the perfect companion to a traditional dining table. The ‘Mid-Century Modern’ Bench: For those who favor a more streamlined look, the Mid-Century Modern bench boasts clean lines, tapered legs, and a choice of leather or fabric upholstery. It's a versatile piece that will blend seamlessly into a variety of settings. The ‘Farmhouse’ Bench: This bench exudes rustic charm with its distressed finish, solid wood construction, and comfortable seating. It's ideal for creating a warm and inviting dining space. The ‘Urban Loft’ Bench: Combining industrial aesthetics with modern comfort, the Urban Loft bench features a metal frame, a reclaimed wood seat, and a minimalist design. It's a statement piece that will add character to any dining room. Beyond the Dining Room: While designed for the dining room, these benches are surprisingly versatile. Customers are already finding creative uses for them throughout their homes. "We’ve seen people using them in entryways, at the foot of their beds, or even in living rooms as extra seating," says Grutman. "It’s really exciting to see how people are incorporating these pieces into their lives." Craftsmanship & Commitment – The Allen Edmonds Difference Every Allen Edmonds dining bench is meticulously crafted by skilled artisans in the United States. The company is committed to supporting American manufacturing and preserving traditional craftsmanship. This commitment translates into a product that is built to last and is worthy of being passed down through generations. “We’re not just selling furniture; we’re selling a legacy,” concludes Chen. “We want our customers to feel proud to own a piece of Allen Edmonds that will be enjoyed for years to come.” Availability & Pricing: The Allen Edmonds dining bench collection is available for purchase online at [Insert Website Address Here] and at select Allen Edmonds retail locations. Pricing varies depending on the style, materials, and size, but benches generally range from $899 to $1999. Custom upholstery options are also available.