Three Common Church Pew Styles

3 Common Church Pew Styles

Pews have a long history that dates back to the 13th century when backless stone benches were found in English churches. By the 14th century, wooden pews had started to replace their stone counterparts. By the 15th century wooden pews were commonplace in churches.

Permanently fixed pews were not common until after the Protestant Reformation and in many churches the pews were a cost to the congregation. They actually became the personal property of the family that paid for them.

Since those days, pews haven’t changed much in terms of their build. However, they are now considered public seating for the congregation instead of personal property. While the overall build of pews haven’t changed much, there are three common pew styles seen throughout the world today.

Standard Pews

Most pews are of the standard style. These all-wood pew bodies are simple yet elegant. They are long, straight benches offering the congregation a chance to sit during a sermon.

The wood used will vary, as will the color. There are also different pew ends which are the entrance and exit points to the pew row. These end pieces often have unique or intrinsic designs on them to provide some aesthetic appeal.

Standard pews are often upholstered as well. Cushions are added to the backrest of the pew as well as the seat. The cushions provide added comfort to the congregation.

Radial Pews

Radial pews are very similar to their standard brethren. They too are typically made of all-wood bodies and can be finished in different styles. The only difference is that radial pew has a slight curvature to it. This curvature allows for seating to face a focal point, usually the altar, improving sightlines for larger congregations.

Box Pews

Box pews are not as prevalent today but are one of the more common styles used throughout history.

Box pews are church pews that are encased in paneling. They were typically straight pews enclosed with a latched door at the end. The reason for the enclosure was to create more privacy, allowing a family to be seated together alone.

In colonial New England, box pews were often used in more than just churches. These box pews were also used in meeting houses which were not typically heated, thus the enclosure helped to keep out drafts which kept the pew occupants warmer.

To learn more about our different styles of church pews, contact Imperial Woodworks, Inc. or call us at 800-234-6624. Additionally, you can request a free catalog online.

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