Sitting pretty: window seats you need in your home

There’s something very decadent about a window seat. Unless you have a period home, chances are you won’t have an actual window seat (a bench built into the frame of the window itself), but if you have a bay window you can position a low bench or seat and get almost the same effect.

Best accessorised with cushions, a throw, a mug of tea and the time to watch the world go by, window seats help you to create an intimate corner for reading and relaxation. You can even draw the curtains across, enclosing you in your own tiny world and ensuring you’ll get some peace from the rest of the family!

Here are some window seat ideas to help you create the look in your home.

1. DIY window seat

If you know someone who’s good at DIY and you have a suitable corner (and window!) in your home, then why not create your own beautiful focal point?

Complete the look with a padded seat – most fabric stores and places that sell made-to-measure curtains will be able to help with supplying and cutting the foam and upholstering the seat. The beautiful example is covered with pure new wool Melbourne fabric in aqua/flamingo by Yorkshire weavers Moons.

2. Simple window seats

Cream wooden long bench with metal legs

Using a kilim style rug weave (woven as opposed to knotted so it doesn’t have a pile) and a subtle design that is inspired by Native American art, the seat of this bench adds interest and texture without being overpowering . It is offset by four neatly ‘folded’ iron legs making it perfect for a use as a window seat. If you’re short on space, there is even room for a storage trunk underneath. £340, available from Ian Snow.

Georg bench, Skagerak

This simple bench is a great choice for smaller rooms as it will help preserve a feeling of space. Made from natural oak, it has a grey wool cushion which slightly overlaps the edges of the bench, bound in place by leather straps. Other pieces in the same collection are also available. £639, available from Cloudberry Living.

Button tufted fabric bench in mink, Sue Ryder

A great budget option, this upholstered bench with rubberwood legs is perfect for smaller spaces. This bench has been generously padded for comfort, and the neutral colours make it a sure winner in any decor. Was £84.99, now £74.99, available from Sue Ryder.

3. French-style benches

By ‘French style’, we mean seats with high arms and no back, a la Louis XIV! These look a little more formal than a bench seat and are great for propping yourself up with some cushions and a book.

Masque day bed in orange velvet, Rume

This Masque day bed would be a real focal point for any room, and provides a splash of colour in a neutral interior.  If bright isn’t your style, it’s available in a range of other fabrics and finishes. You can personalise it by selecting the upholstery and the leg timber, either ash, oak, or walnut and any colour of stain or leave it natural if you prefer. Prices start at £1,670, available from Rume.

Jean-Luke distressed bench, Sweetpea & Willow

This padded bench mixes classical French design with a shabby chic vibe. The neutral colour means it will fit easily into any interior. £418, available from Sweetpea & Willow. 

By Sara Walker.