The Swirl Bench

Due to the handcrafted nature of our products the final footprint can vary slightly from seat to seat, measurements provided are for the largest expected dimensions. If you are intending to set a slab under each leg we suggest not doing so until you have taken delivery. 

The Swirl back from our swing seats, on a standing oak bench: a hand-cut spiral at the centre of the back rail, with plain slats either side.

We build our seats and benches in Prime Grade air-dried European oak from Hewins Timber. Air drying seasons the timber slowly, over months rather than days, which reduces movement once the piece is outdoors.

Oak is left unpainted and unstained. It starts a warm honey colour and weathers to silver-grey over one or two summers outside. Grain, colour variation and the occasional small knot are part of the timber, not defects. Fine surface checks can open and close with the seasons; they do not affect strength.

Fixings are marine-grade stainless steel throughout, chosen to cope with salt air, so there is nothing to rust or stain the oak.

Guarantee. Every piece carries our five-year Sitting Spiritually guarantee, and painted Accoya pieces are built on timber guaranteed by its manufacturer for 50 years above ground. Our first seats, made in 2004, still sit in our Lyme Regis garden: the five years is a floor, not a ceiling. If something is wrong through our fault, we put it right at our cost. Full terms are on our guarantee page.

Care. Clean the timber a few times a year with sugar soap or our wood cleaner so algae and dirt do not settle in the grain, and avoid a high-pressure washer, which raises the grain. Leave new oak unoiled for its first two to three years while the natural tannins wash out; after that, a feeding oil once a year in spring keeps it nourished. Our refurbishment kit has everything needed. Painted Accoya needs only a wash down. More in aftercare and maintenance.

In the first season. Fresh oak releases tannin when it rains, which can mark new paving (Indian sandstone especially) until it has washed through – stand the feet on something for the first few months. Small dark marks around screw plugs are a reaction between the tannin and traces of iron in water; they are cosmetic and weather in.

Later on. If a piece has been left for a few years, our workshop can collect, restore and return it. See the refurbishment service.

Begin by configuring your seat online. Choose your collection, size and back style, select your timber or painted finish, and add any details that make it distinctly yours. Our website allows you to shape the piece around your garden and the way you live.

Nothing is set in stone at this stage. Once your order is placed, our team will be in touch personally to confirm every detail - from placement and access to finishing touches. We then confirm the full specification before your commission moves into the workshop. As your seat nears completion, we will send you a photograph from the workshop so you can see it being prepared ahead of delivery. This is a considered, unhurried process - crafted with care from first enquiry to final installation.

Delivery and optional assembly are confirmed separately, ensuring timings work for you. Accessories such as cushions, covers or additional touches can be selected later should you wish; many clients prefer to live with their seat first before choosing soft furnishings.

If you would rather speak to us directly, we are always pleased to help. Call 01297 443084 or email info@sittingspiritually.co.uk and we will guide you through the process personally.

Your finished seat is delivered with the same care with which it was made. We work with Richard and Kevin of Saturn Removals, a trusted specialist team who our customers speak of immensely highly. They understand our products, our standards and the importance of a calm, unhurried experience on the day.

Ahead of delivery, you will be contacted directly to confirm a convenient date and time slot. This conversation also allows us to discuss access in detail - from driveways and garden paths to positioning - so everything runs smoothly on the day.

On arrival, your seat is carefully carried into your garden and installed in the exact position you have chosen. The team will assemble and set it up on site, ensuring it sits level and swings freely. Before they leave, you are warmly invited to take a seat and gently sway - making sure it feels exactly as it should. Only when you are completely happy do we consider the installation complete.

It is a considered service, designed to make the final step of the journey as reassuring as the first.