Craftsmanship, History, and Legacy — One Bench at a Time

At Build-a-Bench, every piece we create carries a story — not just of the person it’s made to honor, but of the American craftsmanship that built it in the first place.

Founded by Matt Hyde, Build-a-Bench is rooted in a lifelong passion for restoration, fabrication, and the kind of hands-on work that breathes new life into forgotten materials. For over a decade, Matt has been restoring vintage cast iron bench frames — salvaged from old public parks, estates, mills, schools, and turn-of-the-century foundries — and pairing them with hand-fitted hardwood slats to create one-of-a-kind heirloom benches.

What started as local restoration work for Vermont homeowners and businesses has grown into a fully custom, made-to-order bench company serving customers across the country. Along the way, Matt’s work has been sought out by private collectors, high-end builders, historic property owners, and even a few names you’d recognize.

At the heart of Build-a-Bench is a simple belief: some things are worth keeping. The cast iron frames we restore were originally built in an era when durability and craftsmanship came standard. Today, most mass-produced outdoor furniture is designed to last a few years; these original American castings, when properly restored, will last for generations.

We pair these frames with carefully selected hardwoods—like Ipe, Mahogany, Cedar, and Teak—sourced for both beauty and longevity. Each bench can be customized not only in wood and finish, but with laser-engraved plaques to mark memorials, honor donors, commemorate milestones, or simply create a lasting legacy.

While every bench is built to endure harsh weather and heavy use, what sets Build-a-Bench apart is something less tangible: every piece connects the past with the present, turning salvaged history into a living tribute.

Whether you’re creating a memorial for a loved one, honoring a teacher or pastor, recognizing a donor, or simply adding a bench that will become part of your family’s story, Build-a-Bench offers a deeply personal, truly lasting alternative to disposable outdoor furniture.

We believe the best benches aren’t just places to sit. They’re places to remember.