25 Window Seat Ideas for a Peaceful Place to Relax

Make your window seat the coziest place in the house.

A window seat provides a place to get away, read, and relax while taking in views of the outdoors. At the same time, window seats are quite functional because they add seating and storage to that awkward under-the-window space that would likely be empty otherwise. Once built, a window seat can easily double as a dining banquet, extra seating, a place to read with kids, or even a place to sleep.

This collection of window seat inspiration includes everything from building and storage suggestions to advice on how to choose cushions for your window seat. Read on for our best window seat ideas.

Traditional Window Seat

A classic window seat is built into the wall, creating a nook-like feel. While you could add a seat cushion, throw pillows can also be rearranged to the sitter’s comfort. Here, a mix of blue and white cushions in classic patterns finish off the traditional look.

Related: How to Build a Custom Painted Window Seat

Window Seat Upholstery

Use the window seat as a place to play with textiles by swapping out your pillow covers once in a while or sewing your own. We love the mix of patterns on this modern window seat, which feels eclectic yet cohesive, thanks to the consistent use of blue.

Related: The 39 Best Throw Pillows of 2023 for Every Style

Wooden Window Seat

A polished wood seat finishes off the modern, functional look of this window seat, which doubles as a mudroom bench. Consider using wood on your window seat if you want your room to feel warmer and cozier.

Midcentury Window Seat

Think about the style and era of your home when designing your window seat and its upholstery. A funky ikat-style print cushion looks right at home in this midcentury sitting room, and the bolster pillow nods to the geometric trends of that era.

Modern Window Seat

Wallpaper in the same color as the wall paint gives a subtle indication that this window seat is somewhere special without losing cohesion. Also notice how the beadboard used as drawer and cabinet facing adds to the rustic feel of the room.

Window Seat Casing

You can create a nook-ish oasis by building a casing to surround the window seat. This element can either blend in with the rest of the room, or, with a coat of paint, be transformed into a focal point. This window seat is built out from the wall, so a similar design is an option if you’re not in a remodeling or new build phase.

Integrated Window Seat

Integrating your window seat into other built-ins feels cozy, especially with a monochromatic color scheme. By adding a window seat in this music room, the space under the window doesn’t go unused, rather, it’s maximized with drawer storage.

Bench-Style Window Seat

Rather than a solid box shape, this window seat is designed with legs in the front, giving it the casual feel of furniture. This style also allows for open storage underneath, which would be useful in more high-traffic spaces, such as a mudroom.

Related: 21 Ways to Use a Storage Bench for All Your Organization Needs

Window Seat for Small Spaces

A corner window seat is a wise use of space in a smaller home because you can use the spot for relaxing and, with a table, for eating or as a work surface. Build storage into the seat for even more utility.

Bunk-Style Window Seat

A window seat that doubles as a bed is a dreamy addition to a cabin, guest room, or kids room. This built-in bunk features sconces for reading and shelves overhead for easy access to books and water during the night. Roman shades ensure the cozy bed is not too bright for sleeping.

Window Seat with Wallpaper

Similar to a powder room, a window seat is a great place to splurge on wallpaper, given its limited surface area. To make the investment worth it, choose a flexible wallpaper that suits a handful of aesthetics, or use a peel and stick wallpaper.

Related: 31 Times Wallpaper Decorating Totally Worked

Choose the Right Molding

Simple molding on the faces of this window seat lends a traditional feel. Were the faces blank, the bench would feel more modern. Consider details like this if you’re building a window seat from scratch.

Playroom Window Seat

A window seat can be a launch point for the imagination or a great place to read, making it a practical design addition for kids' playrooms. Use open storage instead of drawers to keep toys and games visible and accessible. Bold upholstery is playful and visually engaging.

Related: 26 Kids' Storage Ideas to Control Clutter

Tufted Seat Cushion

Tufted cushions or mattresses are perfect window seat cushions, as the tufting guards against sagging and ripping. If your style is minimal, tufting is also a way to add texture and visual interest.

Nursery Nook Seat

If you’re remodeling or building a new home, consider a fully integrated window seat, such as this simple, modern design. Window seats get tons of use in kids’ rooms, as they can be both a place to read and rest, as well as a setting for imaginative play.

DIY Window Seat

You can create your own window seat—no carpentry needed! Here, a daybed frame and mattress fit just perfectly into this space, making a place to sit or lounge. It could even double as a guest bed, if needed.

Choose the Correct Height

The tallest you’ll want your window seat is about 24 inches, since this is the maximum seat height for a regular chair. If mobility is an issue, building a taller window seat will help you get in and out more easily.

Window Seat in a Bay Window

Bay windows can be surprisingly difficult to furnish, so a window seat is a wise use of the space. Given all the angles in a bay window, you might want to hire someone to complete this job. Once your window seat is finished, add a small side table for beverages or a larger one to sit and work on a puzzle or a craft.

Related: 17 Bay Window Ideas That Make Your House Feel More Inviting

Faux Window Seat

Rather than built out from the wall, this window seat consists of a simple wooden frame, designed to fit within this window nook. This is a route you can go if you have the room for a window seat but no plans to remodel. A colorful tufted mattress is a perfect, ready-made cushion if you have the space for it.

Window Seat Design

Take inspiration from how this sofa is designed for your window seat: Natural wood planks make up the base, and fluffy boucle fabric upholsters the cushions. While you can use only throw pillows, adding a bolster pillow to the back of your window seat will add comfort and support.

Storage Bench Window Seat

If you’re building a window seat, you might as well add storage. Most people add one or multiple drawers to the window seat base. Just ensure the cabinetry style you choose aligns with the rest of the room.

Choosing Window Seat Upholstery

Choosing upholstery is one of the fun parts of window seat design. A busy pattern in a hardy fabric will hide stains and stand up to long-term use.

Window Seat with Drawer Storage

Window seats are surprisingly practical. If you add storage to them, either through drawers or a hinged seat, you’ll not only have a place to sit but also additional room to store things. Drawers and their hardware are also a fun way to add another layer of texture to a room.

Related: 14 Hidden Storage Spaces Around the House

Window Seat Styling

Style your window seat to suit the rest of the room. Sheepskin and woven pillow cases complement the rustic feel of this room, whereas an upholstered seat cushion and matching throw pillows would feel more buttoned up.

Related: 24 Rustic Living Room Ideas for a Cozy Retreat

Window Seat Banquet

A window seat in a dining room or kitchen doubles as a natural and comfortable banquet. Be sure to build your seat to chair height, which is, at minimum, 18 inches.

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