Window seating provides a comfy and functional alternative to dressing up your interior design. Not only does this feature create a focal point for your room and spruce up any bland areas in your space, but window seating can create the perfect location for a convenient breakfast bench or cozy book nook.
If you’re interested in updating your interior, you’ll want to see these gorgeous window seat ideas, which can help you maximize your space.
Classic window seat ideas
If you’re going to add a window seat to your space, you can’t go wrong with the classics.
Traditional window bench seat
The most common window seat solution is bench-style seating. Add a painted wood bench or built-ins beneath the window and top it with some plush pillows. Bench seating is great for families with young kids, especially if you add the window seat to the kitchen or playroom. A painted wood seat allows for easier cleanup and maintenance than an upholstered alternative.
Cushions for customization
If bench sitting doesn’t sound the most comfortable, you can add some chair cushions to soften the look and feel of your window seat. Removable cushions make the space customizable since you can swap out the cushions at any time. You might also consider changing your cushion covers each season to suit any holiday or seasonal decor changes. You can also opt for an upholstered cushion design. However, upholstered seating won’t be as customizable as cushions.
Farmhouse mudroom bench
For a more rustic look, you can create stunning window seating with a farmhouse mudroom bench. While this may not be the best place to cozy up for a meal or read a good book, the mudroom bench offers a practical means of storage for outerwear, as well as a place for the entire family to prep before leaving home. Wood benches are ideal as they’ll be the easiest to clean and maintain.
Set this window seating option lower to the ground to make it better suited for tying shoes or offering younger kids more accessibility for grabbing gear. It should be no more than 18 inches in height. Also, add lower cubbies for shoes and wall hooks to hang coats.
Creative window seat inspiration
While the classic window seating solutions provide plenty of flexibility for any family, homeowners are also taking some creative measures to maximize their space. Here is some inspiration we’re sure you’ll love.
Integrate the window seat with bookshelves
A favorite solution for the at-home library or home office is to install a window seat. These spaces are prime locations for creating a cozy nook amid the shelves. Frame a window with bookshelves on either side. Then, consider integrating additional built-in shelving beneath the window for more storage. Top it off with some cozy cushions and pillows or an upholstered seating arrangement to create the perfect nook for cozying up with a good read.
L-shaped breakfast corner
Update your meal space with a breakfast corner. If you have a large window in your kitchen with a bit of extra space, consider giving the room a functional facelift by installing an L-shaped window bench for a quaint breakfast corner. Add hinges to your built-in window seating to create a savvy storage space for extra table linens, pots, pans, cookbooks, or anything else you need. Add a small table and a couple of extra chairs to finish up the breakfast space. Whether your household uses this space for homework or quick meals in the morning, it can be a great addition to a kitchen without an island or for a family on the go.
Bunk-style seating for extra storage
One creative idea that homeowners use in bedrooms is bunk-style seating. Frame a bedroom window with bookcases and shelving to add extra storage space. Then, add some shelves beneath the window. For rooms where the window is higher up toward the ceiling or for those looking to create a unique look, have your built-ins rise to about 3 feet off the ground. This creates a “bunk-style” effect. Add a ladder, and you will have the perfect child or teen hangout space.
DIY window seat without built-ins
If installing custom built-ins or full window benches isn’t feasible for your space, you may be interested in a DIY window seat. Place a small ottoman, futon, or sofa in front of a window. Frame your window with shelves or storage units to create the classic window bench look. You may also want to add some organizational units beneath the furniture to best use the space you have available.
Window seating can be a fantastic addition to your space. Whether you need a cozy book nook to curl up with a good story or a functional and family-friendly breakfast bench for meals and homework, window seating can be an excellent opportunity to update your design.
