Built-in Window Seat: Transform Your Home with a Practical Nook
I think it’s safe to say that most of us enjoy unique features in a home, like a real stone fireplace, a custom pantry, or a built-in window seat. Today I’m featuring a variety of built-in nooks beneath a window that create cozy reading spots or spaces to simply day dream. Take a look and see if you have a favorite.
This first example is expertly done with painted vertical paneling and drawers underneath for storage. A classic plaid cushion lends a bit of an English air to this little getaway with a wall light for reading. The paint color is Moody Blue by Sherwin Williams.
Not all window seats are large. This homeowner made great use of space next to a built-in tower cabinet by adding shelves and a seat around the window. A small striped seat pad is paired with a dusty blue pillow.

Instead of one long seat, a custom cabinet is positioned between two short cubbies for sitting. If this were in my house, my cats would assume those cute cushions are specifically for them. I’m sure a family dog would feel the same way.

An arch creates a unique touch for this cozy place for reading or dreaming. There’s even a chandelier tucked in the right corner.

A mix of warm wood and painted cabinetry looks rich and beautiful. The seat space is a great place for dropping off bags until you head back out the door.
An elegant living room enjoys a cozy window seat to take advantage of the views from the surrounding windows.

I love this next built-in window seat along an expansive bank of windows. It’s a deeper seat, allowing for a mattress-style cushion to be incorporated for napping.
A beautiful blue and white bedroom enjoys a waterfront view from the built-in seating. Open the windows and enjoy the sea breezes. The pretty wall color is Breath of Fresh Air by Benjamin Moore.

Let’s end with this beautiful and colorful bedroom with a cozy nook beneath a trio of beams and windows. The printed shades and blue and orange pillows lead your eye to this appealing space.

Do you have a favorite from today’s collection of built-in window seats?




I would love a window seat, they are so cozy and fun. Thanks for these ideas.
I would love to sit in that blue and white bedroom on the window seat and look out at the ocean. My own house has a window seat that looks out into my garden.
Every home that we have lived in I always dreamed of putting in a window seat. Lo and behold, when we were looking for a home for downsizing, one home we looked at had a window seat in the guest room. I KNEW it was the home for us! And it is. 🙂
Isn’t that water view window seat divine!!! The view ain’t so bad either. haha
They are all lovely but I especially love the built-in shelves next to the tower with the blue pillow. Gives me an idea which is why I love your site. Thanks for the inspiration.
While lovely to look at, I can’t see myself actually sitting in a window seat, unless part of a dining area? They just don’t look comfortable enough to actually spread myself out to read a book. But! my cats and small dog love them!!! I put plants in my windows instead.