How to build a bar style bench between two brick pillars?

[JandelMonkey]

I have a patio area, tiled and under cover. We have a space between a brick pillar and the house and I'd like to build a bench between them. Not to sit on, but as like a bar type bench where my wife and I could have breakfast on, I could take the laptop to for working outside. My concern is the weight in something relatively floating between since it's a long bench I'd like to build. Photos below of some insight. I'd like some recommendations on how to do this with minimal needs for supports coming down to the ground if that makes sense at all. At some stage later also, we may be putting glass panels or wire fencing underneath the bench.

Things I've considered

• Welding a metal frame to bolt to either side and then a timber top (haven't welded before)
• As above, but with wood
• A timber block bolted on each side and the bench on top.

Please offer any insight. I've not building anything weight bearing like this without legs and frames!

[JacobZ · Accepted solution]

Hi @JandelMonkey,

Thank you for your question and welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, it is fantastic to have you with us.

This sounds like a fantastic project that I am excited to assist with and see come to life.

Due to the 2760mm span between the concrete columns, the only way I see that you could do this without a vertical support is to use a welded steel frame. 

I propose creating a ladder-like frame from Rectangle Hollow Section Steel, which is then bolted into the columns on either side with multiple large masonry anchors. You can then recess this frame into the underside of the bench to give it a hidden, floating look.

I would also encourage you to speak with an engineer to confirm the suitability of these brick columns to support the weight of this structure.

Allow me to tag some of our helpful members to see if they have any experiences or advice that they can offer, @Noyade, @Dave-1, @Nailbag, @Jewelleryrescue.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob

[Dave-1]

Afternoon @JandelMonkey 

The span you are talking about is a resonable distance without a post of some kind in the middle. Someone will at some point climb on it

I put a canterleaver outside bench in next to my pool deck and its solid as a rock. So maybe if you span it between either brackets or the piece of timber you mention bolted to the wall but make the framing thicker then there is less flex and more strength.

Outside bench is the project

If you want a thinner look then I would head to a welded steel frame with larger brackets to hold to the pillar and walls. A local fabrication shop could manufacture something like that if you draw it up first. 

Dave

[Nailbag]

Hi @JandelMonkey I would go with the plan as @JacobZ has recommended using welded steel. If you make or have made the frame in two sections for easy of transportation and installation, they can be joined using bolts and nuts. Making the frame to accomodate front panelling will future proof the design. Making the frame full height and width will give support at deck level and when fixed at each end to the piers will move the additional support. The image below show that I would make the centre as angled support stays instead of going to the ground front and back which will give a more open and unobstructed finish.

Regards, Nailbag