As soon as it gets cold outside, we prefer to stay indoors and observe nature. A window seat is the perfect place to relax and promises pleasant hours with a book in hand. There are numerous design options available – with a shelf, with storage space, space-saving or generous. There is a suitable solution for every living situation. However, if you are planning a window seat, there are a few things to consider. We explain how you can create a cozy andDesign a functional window seatand what you should pay attention to and show you 30 inspiring ideas for cozy and modern seating windows.
Plan and design seat windows: There are three versions to choose from
Cozyin your own living roomSitting with a cup of coffee and a nice book and enjoying the beautiful nature outside: Many builders dream of a panoramic window with a window seat. To make your dream of a cozy seating area by the window come true, you don't actually need a panoramic window or a wide window sill. Because with the right furniture you can fake the look. Fit a window seat snugly in front of the window sill and connect it to a shelf or built-in cabinet that frames the window. Not only do you create additional seating and lying space, but you can also display your book collection or small statues or other decorative pieces and of course family photos. Such a window seat fits harmoniously into the furnishings and becomes an element of the interior design. Of course, you can design the space under the bench as you wish. A seat window with storage space for seat cushions, serving trays and cozy bedspreads is of course something special.
Design a seat window in a window niche
Alternatively, you can use a window nichecreate a renovation. A deep bench fits into this niche, which you can use as a day bed, seating area for guests or a boho-style home office. If you choose this option, you should plan for a seat depth of at least 60 cm and replace the old window with a well-insulated model. Three-chamber window systems offer sufficient insulation and guarantee that you will feel comfortable outside even in sub-zero temperatures. So that nothing disturbs the clear view, either choose fixed glazing or divide the window into two. At the top you can install a tilt sash window that opens outwards. This way you can ventilate and sit by the window and clean the window at the same time. The bottom half should not open. So it can serve as fall protection.
Design a seat window with a wide window sill
If the building has thick external walls then you canduring a renovationintegrate a seat window. If this seat window is on the ground floor, then you do not need fall protection. Even more so - with sliding glass doors you can create a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor areas and thus merge the boundary between house and garden. However, in order for the window seat to be installed in a truly functional and safe manner, it must be carried out professionally.
Plan a seat window with a shelf and storage space
Niches and corners can be completely transformed with individually adapted built-in furniture. Even if the window is relatively small, there is nothing wrong with installing a shelf that flows into a wide window sill. This means you can save yourself expensive and time-consuming conversion work and then have additional seating space. This variant is ideal for living areas with many windows that accommodate the dining area, kitchen and living room. If necessary, you can use the window bench as additional seating for the dining table.
Seat window outside: When the window seat merges directly into the terrace
If you are one of the lucky owners of a new building with generous window fronts, then the next idea is just right for you. It combines a bench that also functions as a staircase to the adjacent terrace. The doors open outwards so that you can sit or lie comfortably on the window seat and still have easy access to the terrace. The wide seating area offers enough space for the whole family and even guests.
Panoramic window with seating area
Panoramic windows enable a large view and are therefore a popular element of modern architecture. In contrast to floor-to-ceiling windows, which are divided into several wings, panoramic windows consist of a large glass area without bars. If you have an extra-wide window sill at seat height, they offer the perfect place to relax. This means residents can enjoy nature outside at any time of year and in any weather, without having to forego the cozy warmth of their own home. The storage space around the window provides storage space for magazines and books.
Frameless corner windows
Frameless corner windows have become very popular in recent years. They are mainly used in the sleeping area or in the children's room. These corner windows usually do not have opening sashes and are made of safety glass. A seat that wraps around the corner and then turns into a bookshelf is the perfect complement to such a picture window.
Transform small niches into cozy reading nooks
Small niches with windows in the hallway can be transformed into cozy reading corners in no time. Simply assemble a wooden board, add thick cushions and place a small table right next to it. A patchwork rug keeps your feet warm and completes the stylish ensemble.
Seating window with a view of the inner courtyard
A seat window that looks out to the forest or the sea is of course something special. But even if the house is in a densely built-up area, you don't have to miss out on the cozy seat by the window. In this case, however, you should plan the seating window so that it faces the rear or inner courtyard. This means you can enjoy and marvel at your own oasis of peace in the middle of the city all year round.
Design the outside window seat
The windowsill doesn't always have to be inside. If the facade design allows it, you can create a window seat on the outside. This variant is perfect for city villas on small plots. There is usually hardly any free space for a garden and builders have to look for space-saving solutions. A window sill can replace the seating area with chairs in the garden. Even more so - the window sill is covered and protects you from the strong rays of the sun in summer and from rain and snow in winter. Since it is connected directly to the facade, you don't need heating in the fall.
Planning seat windows: Home office with a difference
Anyone who works at home knows how important a beautifully furnished home office is. Whether as a reception room for customers or simply for relaxation in between: a wide seating window offers numerous design options.
Whether as an additional seat or as an accent in the living area: a seat window has become an integral part of the modern living environment. Be inspired by the suggestions for a functional and cozy furnishing and staging of such a window seat and create your own oasis of peace.
Window seat for the holiday home in the forest
Even in a small niche there is always room for a cozy windowsill
Library with generously glazed fronts and a comfortable bench by the window
Seat window with storage space
Seat window and steps at the same time
Bay window in a classic building
Bay window with bench
Window seat seamlessly connected to the garden
Narrow and high seat window
Seating window next to the fireplace
Window seat in the living room
Window seat with shelf
Architect house with wooden window seat
Window seat in the library of an architect's house
Window seat and built-in wardrobe in the bedroom
Window bench in the home office
Plan a window seat: Cozy seat cushions and bedspreads ensure more comfort
Design a window seat in a boho style
