Hardy Bench - Another Country

Hardy Bench is one of those pieces whose simplicity makes it particularly appealing to us. It has no unnecessary decoration, yet the gently softened edges, graceful proportions and carefully resolved timber joints give it a distinctive character.

We particularly appreciate its versatility. Designed to accompany the Hardy Dining Table, it works equally well as occasional seating in a hallway, beneath a window or at the foot of a bed. Its relatively shallow depth allows it to sit comfortably in places where a chair might feel intrusive.

The choice between oak and walnut changes its expression without altering the design. Oak brings warmth and familiarity, while walnut offers a richer, darker character. Both celebrate the beauty of solid timber and the skill involved in shaping it.

It is furniture that doesn't insist on a particular setting or purpose — a quality we value in pieces intended to remain useful for generations.

Designed by David Irwin, Hardy Bench forms part of Another Country's Hardy Collection, a family of furniture inspired by traditional British craftsmanship and the design language of nineteenth-century furniture.

The collection began with the Hardy Chair, developed to celebrate Another Country's fifth anniversary. Its name references Thomas Hardy and his poem Old Furniture, which reflects on the meaning acquired by objects passed between generations.

Hardy Bench continues this approach through its gently rounded seat, slender proportions and carefully expressed timber construction.

Available in two lengths, the bench is designed to sit between the legs of the corresponding 2m and 2.5m Hardy Dining Tables. It can also be used independently in hallways, bedrooms and informal living spaces.

Explore the Hardy Collection, including the Hardy Chair, or discover more about Another Country.

Oak / Natural

Solid oak finished with natural oil and wax, enhancing the timber's warm colour, visible grain and tactile character.

Walnut / Natural

Solid walnut finished with clear oil and wax, bringing a deeper, richer tone while preserving the natural appearance and texture of the wood.

Both finishes use traditional oil-and-wax treatments that protect the surface against everyday wear while allowing for maintenance and local refinishing over time.

Timber is a natural material and variations in grain, colour and character should be expected and celebrated as part of each piece.

For guidance on looking after solid timber and natural finishes, see our Care, Assembly & Maintenance guide.

Small

Width 1200mm

Depth 385mm

Height 440mm

Large

Width 1700mm

Depth 385mm

Height 440mm

The two sizes are designed to fit between the legs of the 2m and 2.5m Hardy Dining Tables respectively.

Designer: David Irwin
Maker: Another Country
Collection: Hardy Collection
Made in: Portugal

Hardy Bench is part of the furniture family developed by British designer David Irwin for Another Country, combining references to nineteenth-century furniture with contemporary craftsmanship and restrained proportions.

The collection grew from the original Hardy Chair, designed in 2015, and draws on traditional Windsor chair-making techniques, tapered timber joints and softly rounded forms.

In the bench, these principles are expressed through a simple, elongated seat and a carefully proportioned supporting structure. The rounded edges soften the geometry, while the timber joints contribute to the distinctive identity shared across the Hardy family.

Crafted in Portugal from solid oak or walnut and finished with natural oil and wax, the bench is intended to celebrate the character of timber while remaining practical for everyday use.

Designed to complement the Hardy Dining Table, it also works independently as occasional seating, reflecting the collection's emphasis on useful, adaptable furniture that can remain relevant across generations.

Explore the complete Hardy Collection, or discover more about Another Country.

Another Sofa offers extensive scope for personalisation through cushion filling, timber leg finish and upholstery. Customer's Own Material (COM) can also be considered subject to suitability and applicable fire regulations.

If you would like help specifying your sofa or would like to see fabric samples, contact us.

Looking for something slightly different?

Most pieces can be adapted to suit individual requirements, whether through alternative dimensions, materials, finishes or other details.

Bespoke possibilities vary by design and are considered individually, with additional design and material costs where applicable.

Please contact us to discuss what may be possible for your project.

Feather-filled cushions should be plumped regularly to maintain their comfort, loft and appearance. Care requirements vary according to the upholstery selected; please refer to the specific fabric manufacturer's instructions where applicable.

Our furniture collection is designed and made for a long life.

Appropriate care will help natural materials age beautifully and maintain their character over time.

Care and maintenance requirements vary according to material and finish. We recommend following product-specific guidance and using only suitable or approved care products.

Some pieces may require simple assembly on delivery. Product-specific care, assembly and warranty information is available on request.

Please contact us if you would like advice on caring for your furniture.

Another Sofa is made to order and, due to its size and nature, will normally be delivered using a specialist furniture delivery service. Where an appointment is required, we, the maker or our delivery partner will contact you to arrange delivery.

Please check room dimensions, doorways, corridors, stairs and the complete delivery route before ordering. Particular care should be taken with larger configurations such as the 3 Seater, Chaise and Corner Sofa. If you are unsure whether your chosen sofa can be delivered successfully into your room, please contact us before placing your order — we are very happy to help you consider access.

Delivery arrangements can vary according to the size and configuration ordered. Unless expressly agreed otherwise, delivery does not include installation, removal of doors or windows, or disposal of existing furniture.

For full information on delivery, access, lead times and receiving larger pieces, please see our Delivery page