Here are some pics of a clients very old solid mahogany bed frame that her mothers parents bought as an antique and I have converted it into a bench settee for her . She wanted to preserve it as a family keepsake but not as a bed anymore because it was an odd size. The seat lifts up for storage, I recommended cushions upholstered in wool Afghan rug fabric that would compliment the age and look of the bench. First pic on top is after first coat of stain. still have to put on finish coats of linseed oil ,but the weather is too damp here and drying is taking forever.
I Personally think a tapestry or needlepoint fabric could look rather splendid it would look lovely in the vestibule or entrance to a home, and you could store umbrellas in it!
