A teak commemorative bench: a thoughtful way to remember a loved one
If you’ve recently lost someone close to you, you may be wondering how you can honour their memory. And although it may be a cliché, it’s true that while someone may not be around anymore, their influence can definitely continue through those who remember them.
Of course, there are various things you can do, from revisiting special places to listening to their favourite songs or sharing stories about them. You could also create a memorial garden, plant a tree or raise money for a cause that mattered to them. If there was a project they’d started before their death, you could complete it for them. And photos always have a key part to play.
Another idea is to install a memorial bench as a lasting, meaningful tribute to honour the life of the person who’s no longer around. And there are many benefits to fitting one of these pieces, including:
Appearance and functionality
It isn’t always easy to find somewhere you can sit in peace for as long as you like, reflect and remember someone who has gone. A memorial bench can provide this opportunity and make a communal area look so much better. It also helps to bring a community together. Unlike a gravestone in a graveyard, it provides somewhere accessible and informal where anyone can pause for a while. Equally, of course, you can have a bench like this in your garden to create a spot for private reflection.
Benches are highly space-effective, so you can either sit and remember someone alone or with others. And if you’re grieving, a bench may offer some comfort as a place where you can work through your emotions.
A personal memorial
Typically, benches are personalised with plaques, where you can add your own message along with information such as name and the dates of the person’s birth and death. You may choose to add ‘In loving memory’ or similar, for example, or add a line from a song or poem the person loved.
A choice of locations
When deciding where to locate your memorial bench, you can choose a spot such as a public park or garden, a churchyard or a coastal path – or even somewhere like a National Trust property or, as mentioned, a private garden if you prefer more intimate, personal setting.
If you choose a public space, check capacity and obtain permission from the relevant authority.
A variety of materials
Choosing the right material for your memorial bench is vital for its longevity and appearance. Oak can look good but may need regular upkeep. Metal is durable, but not always comfortable to sit on, especially for an extended period, and may need repainting after a while.
Commemorative teak benches, however, remain durable and weather-resistant with minimal maintenance. And you don’t need to treat them with sealants or preservatives. So it’s perfect for outdoor areas. This is thanks to this hardwood’s natural oils, which provide protection from the elements, including rain and snow, strong sunlight and temperature fluctuations. What’s more, over time the golden colour of teak develops a silvery patina which looks every bit as elegant as the original hue. It also shrugs off decay, rot and insect infestations.
A teak memorial bench looks stunning whatever the location, whether that’s a garden, park, churchyard or other space, since its classic design suits any setting. Finally, it’s a sustainable choice when sourced responsibly.
So, with a bench like this, you can honour the life and memory of your loved one for many years to come.
