Window Seat Ideas

Don't waste a square inch of space. Drawers under a window seat near the kitchen make great storage for special-occasion dinnerware or those bulky pots you don't use every day.

A kitchen window seat fitted with a soft cushion makes a great place to wait for water to boil. Shutters provide privacy while still allowing plenty of sunlight. The bright red makes this area a focal point against the crisp white cabinetry and trim.

The corner configuration makes this window seat a cozy place for children to do their homework or enjoy an after-school snack. The big bench has space for everyone -- or room for a reader to recline.

When planning a window seat, consider leaving space for a dining table. When guests drop in, pull the table over for instant extra seating.

Beaded-board panels add dimension and texture to this window seat. An easy project, installing beaded board provides cottage style and creates a finished look.

A window seat is a great way to hide unsightly plumbing or a radiator. Make sure it's properly vented and allows for easy access to any fixtures.

Make the most of a long, narrow space by combining a window seat with a dining table. This configuration allows you to seat more guests or leave the bench empty to enjoy the view.

This window seat provides both extra storage and seating. Placing the table perpendicular to the bench enhances the unfitted, furniture-style look.

Add a soft touch to a storage area off the kitchen with an upholstered cushion on a bench. A window seat is a great way to add a punch of color to a mostly white space.

Built-in bookcases flanking a window seat are great for cookbooks and decorative dishes.

Add function to a small niche with a compact and comfy window seat. The open design accommodates the baseboard heaters below.

Spend afternoons relaxing in a cozy window seat. Fill drawers underneath with your favorite books. An adjoining cabinet and countertop provide a perfect spot to prepare a cup of tea.

Kitchens are becoming the entertaining hub of the home. A thick, comfortable cushion will draw guests to the window seat, keeping them out of the cook's way. Add pillows for even more comfort and style.

This window seat beside the kitchen desk area is a nifty spot to sit while helping kids with homework. Install a sconce above the seat for late-night reading.

Located between a wine glass storage cabinet and a wine refrigerator, this window seat offers the perfect place for guests to sit while you prepare drinks. A thick cushion keeps guests comfortable -- and out of the cook's way.

A long window seat offers plenty of seating for guests to gather in the kitchen -- out of the kitchen's work core but close enough for conversation.

You can never have too much storage. Here, built-in hutches flank a window seat atop three large drawers.

Fill a sunny kitchen corner with ample seating for friends or family. A thick cushion and overstuffed pillows add a soft touch and living-room comfort to a hardworking kitchen.

A window seat this size begs you to pull the shades and take a nap after lunch. With storage cabinets on every side, not an inch of space is wasted.