Window seat ideas – 10 design tips for wonderful window seats
- 1. Design practicality into your window seat ideas (Image credit: Neptune) ...
- 2. Stretch the window seat beyond the window ...
- 3. Build fitted furniture to create a window seat nook ...
- 4. Choose upholstery fabric carefully ...
- 5. Create a flow between the indoor and outdoors ...
- 6. Consider the view ...
- 7. Use a window seat to allow you to fit in a dining space ...
Full Answer
How to create a wonderfully inviting window seat?
The simplest way to make a window seat is with a bench, backless sofa or chest with a lift-up lid, pushed in front of the window. Megan is a News Writer across Future Plc's Homes titles.
How do you build a window seat?
Building the seat is very simple, it’s just a basic box. We used pocket holes to join together the boards. First we joined the two short sides to the bottom using the kreg jig pocket hole system. Then we joined the long sides (front and back) to the bottom and the sides. That gives you the base of the window seat.
How to build window seat from wall cabinets?
How to Build a Window Seat
- Build the Toekick. ...
- Begin the Assembly. ...
- Fasten the Cabinets. ...
- Install Cabinets to Toekick. ...
- Level and Secure End Cabinets. ...
- Fasten Blocks to Add Height (if Needed) The end cabinets are topped with 15-inch-tall intermediate cabinets, which then receive the bookcase units.
- Fit All Components Together and Install Bookcases. ...
- Conceal the Joints. ...
How to build a window seat with storage?
Instructions
- Build a support structure out of your 2x4s on edge. ...
- Assemble the IKEA cabinets and center on top of your base structure. ...
- Use clamps to screw the cabinets to the spacers and then screw all the cabinets into the base structure.
What can I do with a window seat?
Design practicality into your window seat ideas. ... Stretch the window seat beyond the window. ... Build fitted furniture to create a window seat nook. ... Choose upholstery fabric carefully. ... Create a flow between the indoor and outdoors. ... Consider the view. ... Use a window seat to allow you to fit in a dining space.More items...•
What are windowsill seats called?
As a matter of fact, it's called the “stool” or “window board.” And the wooden board beneath that is the “apron.” So where did the confusion come in? Well, the exterior portion of the window is called the “sill.”
Is a window seat practical?
That's why a window seat is a great addition to your home. Window seats combine style and practicality – they can provide additional seating, storage solutions or just the perfect spot to curl up with a good book. They can also be really simple and cost-effective to install.
How can I decorate my window?
How To Decorate Windows By Room TypeClassic sheer curtains and large living room windows are a match made in heaven.Transparent-solid blinds add a touch of fun, keep the room bright and airy, and ensure privacy.Small plants sit well on a bathroom window sill and lend some colour to the space.More items...
Do window seats add value?
From long, thin benches across the whole length of a room to cozy, fluffy reading nooks, you're bound to get some inspiration from these photos. Don't forget that window seats can add resale value to your home with just a small investment.
How tall should a window seat be?
between 16 and 21 inchesIdeally, the window should be a minimum of six inches above the bench. The most comfortable height for a window seat (with cushion on) is between 16 and 21 inches. Standard chair seat height is right around 19 inches from the floor, so you have a little leeway here when constructing the bench.
Are window seats actually comfortable?
They offer comfort—especially with a thick cushion on top—and views to the outdoors. They create a sense of coziness and security, thanks to the niche that defines a window seat. And they provide extra storage when fitted with drawers, cabinets, or a simply hinged bench top.
Why do we have a window seat?
Window Seat – Pros and Cons: You can look out the window and enjoy the view from liftoff to landing. You have a place to rest your head as you doze away. Accessibility to the restroom requires passengers to exit first. Some people say it helps with claustrophobia.
How thick should a window seat cushion be?
For a window seat that will be lounged on you may want a 4” or thicker foam but for a dining area such as a nook in a kitchen 2” to 3” might be just right.
How can I make my windows look nice?
Color, trim, and cleverly hung treatments can all improve a room with small windows.Ditch the Dark Curtains and Shades.Manipulate Height and Width.Add Embellishments to Moldings and Trim.Install Plantation Shutters Over the Window.Play With Patterns.Harness the Power of Mirrors.Place Furniture Wisely.More items...•
What type of blinds are in style 2022?
All.Cellular Honeycomb Shades. > Duette Honeycomb Shades. > Applause Honeycomb Shades. ... Roller Shades. > Designer Roller Shades. > Designer Banded Shades. ... Woven Wood Shades.Shadings & Privacy Sheers. > Silhouette Window Shadings. ... Roman Shades. > Design Studio Roman Shades. ... Shutters.Metal/Wood Blinds. > Faux Wood Blinds.More items...•
What to put on big windows when decorating?
If your large windows have enough space to place a bracket, then window shades are another great window treatment style for large window expanses. Like drapery, it's important to keep your fabric and color selection neutral so when drawn, the shades don't visually overpower your space and décor.
What does a window seat mean?
Definition of window seat 1 : a seat built into a window recess. 2 : a seat next to a window (as in a bus or airplane)
How do you make a window seat?
2:0110:56How to Build a Window Seat - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd finally Spain can cry many boards it will be visible from within the room. I'm going to shootMoreAnd finally Spain can cry many boards it will be visible from within the room. I'm going to shoot the other corner yep we're installing the braces around the perimeter. First next install the legs.
How do you make a window seat cushion?
I Made This No-Sew Window Seat Cushion for Just $50, and It Only Took Me 20 MinutesYou'll need: ... Step 1: Measure your window sill. ... Step 3: Purchase foam and and fabric to fit. ... Step 3: Cut the foam to fit. ... Step 4: Wrap foam in fabric and pin in place. ... Step 5: Place on window and style.
Can you sit in a bay window?
Bay windows are designed to protrude farther from your home. Because bay windows protrude farther, you can design a beautiful window seat inside your house. A great spot to read a book, or just sit and relax.
Where should I put a window seat?
The possibilities here are truly endless, as long as there’s a window. If there’s enough clearance, almost any window is a candidate for a window s...
How high should a window seat be?
Since a window seat is still a seat, let’s start with that height. The seat of most chairs is between 19 and 21 inches off the floor. For your wind...
How much does a window seat cost?
The total cost depends on the scope of the project. If you’re DIY-ing a seat under an existing window, you determine the cost of the materials. The...
What is a window seat?
A sizable window nook makes the perfect space for a coffee klatsch window seat in a home remodeled by Jenn Feldman Designs. The bench seating makes room for at least three adults. The cornice molding adds a little pizzazz that is in step with the home's traditional decor. The aquamarine trellis wallpaper adds to the charm of the window seat.
What to do when you need more room in your attic?
If you are looking to add more living space to your home, consider cleaning out your attic. It is precisely what Jessica Helgerson Interior Design did when a client needed more room for a home office. To make the new space more inviting, the design team transformed the nook in front of the window into a day bed with a view. The collection of potted trees and plants on the right adds to the room's calming feel.
Can a window seat be used in a bathroom?
A window seat can work in any room in your home, including the bathroom. Here a cozy nook was carved out under a vaulted ceiling by Taylor Anne Interiors . Underneath is handy storage for bathroom essentials like toilet paper and clean towels. A thick mattress-like bench cushion makes the seat super inviting and convenient for activities like leg shaving or waxing.
What is a window seat?
Window seats are an interior design win-win: They add both style and functionality to your home. This architectural feature can work in just about any area of the house, from the kitchen to bedrooms. At their most basic, window seats serve as a cozy reading nook next to a window.
How long does it take to build a window seat?
Timing. A custom window seat with upholstery could take up to 10 weeks to build. If you’re including a window seat as part of a larger remodel, be sure to work with your contractor to get the timing right. Transitional living room design.
What is a bumped out window seat?
A window seat that exists inside a pre-existing window nook or bay window is called a “bumped-out” window seat. “Building into an existing nook allows you take advantage of precious real estate and give it a real purpose,” says Hein. This bumped-out design below turns a bay window into an additional seating area, ...
How thick should a cushion be for a window?
Cushions. Will you have a cushion top or finished wood? Wood is easier to clean, but Totty recommends a cushion at least 4 inches thick for comfortable window-gazing. “If the bench is 8 to 12 inches below the window, you can have a small back pillow or cushion,” says Saul.
Who designed the window seats in the switchback staircase?
Architect Carl J. Handman of Kingston, PA, likes to include window seats built into switchback staircases, like the one below. Whenever he designs residential two-story homes, he encourages the homeowner to include a window seating built-in, like this one in Old Greenwich, CT.
Can you have a second couch in a bay window?
This bumped-out design below turns a bay window into an additional seating area, potentially eliminating the need for a second couch or love seat. “Having a customized window seating will reduce the need for multiple seating throughout a room—it’ll give the space a cleaner and simpler look,” says Totty. The Mid-Century Modern design in this room is sleek, but has the disadvantage of lacking under-seat storage.
Can you frame a window seat?
“This option gives you a bit more flexibility regarding size and function .”
Framed Nook
The chic design is always interesting, including when it is used on a window seat. If you have plenty of room near the window, you can turn it into a cozy resting place.
Dreamy Window Seat Ideas
Want extra comfy zone in your bedroom? Create a dreamy window seat, then. It is always nice to have a place where you can sit or lie down while enjoying the scenery outside.
Window Seat with Storage
Having a small space is not an excuse not to create a comfy window seat. With that kind of limitation, you just need to be more creative with it.
Modern Window Seat
With a large window, you have lots of options in terms of window seat designs. You don’t have to go for a dreamy look to make your window seat look more inviting. On the contrary, even a window seat with a modern and minimalist design can be comfy, too.
In-between Staircase
When we say that you can be as creative as you want, we really mean it. If you have windows in-between your staircase, you can turn it into a comfy window seat, too.
Navy Blue and White
White and blue is a great color combination. It looks beautiful, elegant, and comfortable. In the example above, notice how the pillows have different patterns yet all have white and blue in them.
Narrow Window Seat
Look at the picture above. It is a window seat made in a quite narrow space. Yet, it looks not just comfortable, it looks inviting, too.
Why add a window seat?
Adding a window seat to your home can be a great way to increase functionality and heighten your space’s aesthetics. Plus it’s a great place to enjoy the natural light coming in through your windows.
How to add storage to window seat?
One easy way to add storage into your window seat area is to purchase a pre-fabricated banquette with open shelving underneath. Just install the bench, add cushions, and you’re ready to go .
How to elevate a small room?
No matter how big or small your space is, using modern decor in your seating area is a great way to elevate the room. Keep the lines of the bench and cushions clean, simple, and square.
What is the best place to put bench seating?
A bay window is perhaps the most obvious place to create bench seating. It already lets in so much gorgeous natural light, why wouldn’t you want to capitalize on that and create a place to relax and enjoy it?
What to put on a bench?
Consider looking at natural fabrics and textures such as unbleached linens or leather for the upholstery and coverings. Add in a chunky woven throw blanket or sheepskin rug at the base of the bench for an extra touch of luxe.
How high should a window seat be?
The seat of most chairs is between 19 and 21 inches off the floor. For your window seat, this includes any cushions, which are usually 3-4 inches in height. So if you build a bench 18 inches off the floor and add a three-inch cushion, you’ll be at the perfect height for lounging.
What is the purpose of a window seat?
For some, the sole purpose of a window seat is to create a relaxing, cozy, luxurious reading nook. This is especially true if your designated window is in a nursery or playroom. What could be better than a vibrant space where you can read with the kids?
Where to put window seat?
A stair landing is the perfect place to plan a window seat and this is definitely something you will need to factor in with original building plans as you will need to ensure that the landing is large enough to accommodate the seat.
What size should my window seat be?
There are no hard and fast rules for this as a window seat can be just a little nook, as in the image above, or it could be a full blown lounging style seat.
How high should a window seat cushion be?
I like a window seat cushion to be 10cm high and the foam should be a premium high density one. You can also ask a foam specialist or an upholsterer to add a cushion top to the foam which gives you the finished look that you would expect to see in a good quality sofa seat cushion.
How deep is a window seat nook?
A little window seat nook, perhaps on a stairwell landing, can be just 30cm in depth if you plan to just perch there but you need to be careful with the overall size of the window seat as unless it is a really small nook, this can look out of proportion.
Why are window seats important?
A window seat ticks the boxes for aesthetics, practicality and a great use of space. They provide additional seating where space is at a premium, they can provide good storage solutions and are the perfect place to curl up with a good book. Let me show you what to consider when you are designing a window seat to get the best use of the space.
How deep should a sofa be?
A sofa however that you lounge around in would be around 60-70cm in depth so you need to consider how you will use the window seat and whether you want to build in more depth to allow you to lie down comfortably.
Can you leave a seat cushion on a bench?
The seat cushion can be made from a sta in resistant fabric or you can simply leave it as a bench seat with some scatter cushions for back comfort. Outdoor fabric is a great idea here for a window seat cushion as good quality ones are almost indestructible.
Where to place a window seat in a kitchen?
Place a window seat in the bay area or window alcove to act as your breakfast nook near the kitchen. A window seat in the breakfast nook acts as a great addition by offering an extra seating area while still allowing the big kitchen window to let in light.
Where should I put a window seat in my country house?
If you are still in the design phase of your country home, I highly recommend putting a bay window or window seat in the western part of your house so you can admire the sunset from the comfort of your living room!
What is a built in window seat?
A standard built-in window seat is usually surrounded by other built-ins like cabinets or bookcases and is constructed under a window sitting along a flat wall section. They create a custom nook for relaxing in a space that would otherwise be a flat span of window and wall.
Why are window seats important?
Window seats are often the most beloved locations in a home. They offer comfort and relaxing views of the outdoors. Not to mention that they create a sense of security and coziness.
Why do you put a window seat in a living room?
A window seat in the living room window helps maximize the light coming in. An oversized couch placed in front of a tall window might block some incoming light.
How to elevate a staircase?
Elevate your staircase landing by placing a window seat. A window seat on the staircase landing can turn the space, which would otherwise be empty, functional, and elegant. If there is a space in a staircase or hallway landing with a window top, you can add a small window seat there. Make sure to leave at least 36 inches of space for walking.
What to do with the space at the end of a galley kitchen?
Sometimes we don’t know what to do with the space at the end of a galley kitchen. Adding a small window seat is the perfect solution for your kitchen design!
Why use a window seat?
Use a window seat to celebrate the architecture of your home, as this large bay window does.
What can you do with a recess of a window?
By filling the recess of a window (dormer, bay, etc), you can create additional comfortable seating areas in your home. Using various decorating styles and patterns can enhance the comfort and appearance of a window.
How do you Style a Window Seat?
You can put your window seat with several styles, with every style having its different advantages. It is essential to choose the style that will excite you and the one that will match the design of the whole room. This will ensure that you optimize the room’s space while ensuring that you retain the bests look for your home.
How long does it take to make a window seat?
Making a window seat can just be complete within a day as it is somewhat simple. However, together with the time frame, the budget can go to an extreme where you consider having your window seat as a work of art.
How Deep Should a Window Bench Be?
The depth of a window bench is a question to everyone looking for the best comfortable window benches. The first thing you will be looking at a window bench is sitting and relaxing at the same time. It will play a great role in giving you a new experience with this addition to your home.
How Much Does a Window Seat Cost?
Before you purchase a window seat, having the best cost approximations is the best thing as this will prevent you from any cost exaggerations you might find in the market. Window bench seats have become popular and become a great solution in having a luxuriant lounging.
What to put on a window bench seat?
Pillows – To add extra comfort in the window bench seat, having pillows will provide more comfort as you will have enough backrest instead of leaning on the window. Therefore, consider adding some moveable pillows which would be ideal for exchange when you need a backrest.
What is the minimum width of a window bench?
Minimum Seating Width – This is the width between one side of the bench to the other. It is the area that allows one to sit and face the forward or face the outdoor. The minimum seating width should be at least 32 Inches for sitting and facing forward. However, if you are looking forth to be sitting sideways on your window bench, you will require a minimum seating width of 48 inches. Nevertheless, if you have extra room, you can even go wider to provide more seating, even to a seating width of 60 inches.
What is the best add on for a window?
Window bench seats have been one of the best add-ons on any window space. They optimize the use of the space on the window spaces, which are mostly left unused. Window benches will add additional seating areas and act as extra storage areas to ensure you have all that you need in the house.
Step 1: Measure The Window Sill
From edge to edge, measure the width of your window’s interior. To ensure that the cushion fits comfortably inside, you need a precise measurement. Measure the depth. I took a quarter-inch off the depth measurement to ensure that the cushion didn’t hang above the sill.
Step 2: Buy foam And Fabric To Make It Fit
To cut the foam to your desired size, get a roll of foam that is both wider and longer than your window seats. The 24″ by 72-inch foam that I used would work well for most windows. Next, take your measurements and determine how much fabric you will need.
Step 3: Trim The Foam To Size
You will need to mark your measurements on the foam. I found it helpful to draw the lines where I was going, as it is challenging to cut foam straight without a guide. Next, use your preferred tool to cut.
Step 4: Wrap Foam Fabric In Fabric And Pin It In Place
Now comes the fun part. Wrap the fabric around the foam-like wrapping gift. Lay the fabric flat on a smooth surface. Next, place the foam in its center. Wrap the bottom side of the fabric around the foam and then pin it to the foam in a straight line.
Step 5: Style And Place The Window
Place the cushion, pin-side down, on your window sill. The cushion should fit snugly. You can then style it as you wish. To make it cozier, we added throw pillows to provide back support for when we wanted to be in front of the window.
Conclusion
Making a window seat cushion is a little tricky, but it is easy to do. It only takes a few minutes to make and can be decorated in any way you like. The finished window seat cushion will be ready to use within one day, so why not create one today?
