But needs and purpose do change. Sometimes I re-purpose existing benches for new duties. The choice is to use the bench as is or make some modifications. I don’t mind modifications if I know I have no use for the bench design the way it currently is. It’s a check to make sure I know if and what I am losing and gaining when making a bench fit a specific task.
I have a wonderful large three foot by eight foot general purpose bench in my shop that is 36 inches floor to top. It is great for standing and working and sitting on a stool when needed. It’s had about 15 years of good use and will probably last a lifetime or two. It is often visible in my shop photos.
But now I have a need/desire for two special purpose benches. Bench priority one, I need the top at 36 inches high but designed along the looks of a jeweler’s bench (see picture). I am considering a GRS bench pin and holding vise arrangement and want to have a place for all my small hand tools built into the desk. I want to use it for carving, engraving, cutting, filing, soldering all types of material (wood, metal, stone, whatever) It is a very special purpose but all purpose concentrated detail bench, very interesting. Probably NOT like in the picture.
The second priority bench I want is at 30 inches high so I can sit in a regular office type chair and have a very comfortable open work space. The stool sitting is not a comfortable long term working condition.
My problem is space. Where can I locate these new benches? Do I take up more floor space or replace the 3x8 foot bench?
I need to do some bench testing. Build them and see what comes about.