Reddit mentions of Walker Edison Furniture Company Modern Farmhouse Bench Hidden Entryway Shoe Storage Hallway Organizer, 48 Inch, Grey Wash

I see what you mean about the bench. Maybe against the short wall the length of the tiles area? If it cuts into the walkway too much, you might want to get a longer, narrower bench with shoe storage underneath.

This one would work, and you could probably put two beside each other to take up more of the space:

VASAGLE Shoe Bench, Shoe Rack with 2 Mesh Shelves, Shoe Storage Organizer for Entryway Hall, Metal, Industrial, Rustic Brown ULBS74X https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07SJZNNRR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_1BKQDb8JPKX9M


Or this:

WE Furniture AZ48PCSBGW Modern Farmhouse Bench Hidden Storage, 48 Inch, Gray Wash https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076288Y29/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_FEKQDbBPGNF8T


Depending on the hall tree, some might be sturdy enough to stand freely without the bench behind it, but I imagine you're right that one's from Amazon might not be safe. It might work if your had any other large furniture to butt it up against, like an entertainment center, but that's splitting hairs. Against the wall is really the best idea, even if it blocks the window slightly.

Good luck with your project!