Eight homes with practical and stylish built-in window seats

This lookbook explores eight diverse living spaces that incorporate industrial Crittall-style windows and doors, showcasing their enduring appeal and versatility in contemporary home design. Crittall windows, characterized by their gridded metal frames typically made of steel with a bold black finish, originated in the late 19th century and became prominent in Art Deco and modernist architecture. Today, they are experiencing a revival, valued for their clean graphic lines that inject an industrial aesthetic into modern residences worldwide. The featured projects highlight various applications of Crittall-style elements. The Ghost House in the UK, designed by BPN Architects, features a double-height Crittall-style window that serves as a wall to an open-plan living and dining area within a concrete house, contributing to its "ethereal presence." In Tel Aviv, interior designer Maayan Zusman and architect Amir Navon utilized gridded black window frames to create an "airy yet framed" interior in an apartment renovation, complemented by other delicate black furnishings. Xu Fu-Min's Returning Hut in rural China offers a peaceful retreat with a living room featuring a giant wall of glazing framed by gridded metal, which slides open to connect seamlessly with the garden. Surman Weston's Ditton Hill House in the UK integrates Crittall-style windows with exposed steel floor decks, overlooking the garden in an open-plan living area, reflecting the client's preference for industrial aesthetics and nodding to nearby mock-Tudor homes. Little Peak in the USA, a holiday home designed by Berman Horn Studio, features black gridded windows and doors that punctuate its facade. These elements were chosen for their industrial look and to draw focus to the natural textures and colors of the surrounding landscape. Will Gamble Architects' Burnt House in the UK, a residential extension inspired by a Japanese tea house, employs Crittall-style windows and doors to achieve a minimalist aesthetic, reminiscent of a shoji screen, paired with a blackened wood window seat. The Binh Thuan House in Vietnam by MIA Design Studio uses white gridded frames on sliding doors, harmonizing with its industrial all-white, modular structure designed for future modification. Finally, the Harrison Residence in Florida, designed by Jeffrey Dungan Architects, showcases black Crittall-style windows as a focal point in its living space. These windows frame the surrounding tall trees, introducing color into an otherwise monochrome interior with black shelving and a coffee table, and white walls and sofas. Collectively, these examples demonstrate how Crittall-style windows and doors can be adapted to various architectural styles and interior design visions, enhancing spaces with light, connection to the outdoors, and a distinct industrial character. #CrittallWindows #IndustrialDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #ArchitecturalFeatures #LivingSpaces #WindowFrames #ModernHomes

This article showcases ten diverse home interiors that feature window seats, emphasizing their dual functionality as comfortable nooks for relaxation and efficient storage solutions. The selection highlights various design approaches, materials, and settings, illustrating how window seats can be integrated into different architectural styles and personal preferences. The featured projects demonstrate a range of materials used for window seats, including blackened wood, natural wood, concrete, and birch plywood. Each example presents a unique aesthetic and practical application. For instance, the Burnt House in the UK, designed by Will Gamble Architects, incorporates a blackened-wood window seat inspired by Japanese architecture, complementing black steel-framed windows and a mid-century modern rattan chair. This design choice not only provides seating but also integrates with the home's distinctive style. CLB Architects' Wyoming residence positions a built-in wooden window seat to offer views of the Teton mountain range, pairing it with a nearby bookshelf to create an ideal reading spot. In contrast, Graux & Baeyens' 1960s chalet in Belgium uses a concrete base for its window seat, softened with animal hides, allowing residents to enjoy the surrounding countryside. Jordi Hidalgo Tané's Landaburu Borda extension in Spain features a deep concrete window sill in the kitchen, serving as both a seating area and a space for potted plants, blending utility with natural elements. Ström Architects' Woodpeckers project in the UK utilizes an elegant concrete window seat in a larch and glass holiday home, connecting the interior with its scenic outdoor environment. The seat is adorned with terracotta-colored cushions and a Josef Frank design pillow, adding a touch of color and whimsy. Nilsson Pflugfelder's House R in Cambridge, UK, includes a large window seat in the kitchen and dining area, deep enough for two people and offering views of a walled garden. This prefabricated wooden house thoughtfully places windows to maintain privacy while maximizing natural light and views. Dash Marshall's Tribeca home in New York incorporates a wooden window seat in a quiet living room corner, functioning as both a plant shelf and a reading nook, contributing to the home's aesthetic featuring dark wood and green plants. Jan Henrik Jansen's Birkedal in Denmark features a rounded window seat in a log-covered holiday home, enhanced with a fluffy fur throw and linen textiles. The design, including a pebble-covered floor, aims to immerse visitors in the rural Danish landscape. Mustard Architects' Nook House in London includes a concrete window seat in the kitchen, with hidden storage drawers underneath and space for cookbooks, combining seating with practical storage. Finally, Atelier 111 Architekti's Prague flat renovation adds built-in birch plywood shelving and a daybed around a window, creating a cozy, enclosed space that effectively functions as a sofa with integrated storage. These examples collectively illustrate how window seats are versatile design elements that can enhance comfort, functionality, and aesthetic appeal in various residential settings. #WindowSeats #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ArchitecturalDesign #ResidentialInteriors #SpaceSavingSolutions #ModernHomes #CozyNooks #DesignInspiration

Window seats offer a blend of practicality and style, providing an inviting space for relaxation, reading, or enjoying garden views. They are frequently incorporated beneath bay windows, enhancing home design and offering a delightful retreat. The article explores 17 diverse examples of homes that effectively integrate window seats, showcasing various styles and functionalities, from snug library benches to modern seats with built-in storage solutions. Illustrator Alexandra Nea Graham's weatherboard cottage features a sweet book nook with reclaimed leadlight windows in an open-plan living area, embodying a farmhouse feminine aesthetic. In a bright Queensland cottage, a revamped layout includes a window seat with custom VJ cabinets, serving as both storage and a warm sitting spot by the fireplace, reflecting an English cottage style. Tara Dennis’ idyllic riverside home incorporates a custom-made nook with a view next to a working fireplace, inspired by local river shacks and oyster farms, becoming a magical corner for visitors. A colourful country home set on 26 hectares near Toowoomba, Queensland, features a cosy kitchen window seat that is both charming and durable, made with vinyl for easy cleaning, catering to a family with three boys. A charismatic Hamptons-inspired beach house on the South Coast of New South Wales includes a comfortable corner with a custom-made bench pad and designer cushions in an upstairs bedroom, offering spectacular sea views. A modern minimalist home in Launceston, Tasmania, built with American oak, brick, and concrete, boasts three window seats along a hallway on the first floor, providing sweeping views of rolling hills and flooding the space with sunlight. An elegant French provincial family home in Sydney’s Lower North Shore features a snug window seat and bookcase in the main bedroom, created from wasted space, becoming a favorite reading nook. A majestic home on the Mornington Peninsula showcases a window seat next to the fireplace in the living room, contributing to a classic, elegant, and inviting style with traditional aspects and modern touches. A Vancouver home with timeless character includes an enchanting nursery storage bench with vintage drapery, offering practical storage for toys and clothes. An Art Deco red-brick cottage built in 1926 features a luxurious velvet window seat beneath bay-style windows in the formal living room, adding colour, charm, and a plush textural element that contrasts with herringbone floors. A revived Queenslander in Brisbane includes a pink children’s bedroom with a prim window seat and floral cushions, creating a whimsical, magical garden-like atmosphere inspired by an American classic aesthetic. A coastal farmhouse on the Gold Coast riverway integrates a comfortable and practical bench seat in the family TV room, serving as a versatile family reading nook with storage drawers and a crisp white palette. A charming French provincial heritage cottage in Sydney's Lower North Shore features a custom window seat in the living area, complemented by a custom sofa and wingback chairs, blending old and new elements seamlessly. A calming 1920s Melbourne bungalow includes a window seat with built-in storage below leadlight windows in the main bedroom, designed to capture morning light and enhance functionality and elegance. A Hamptons-inspired family oasis in Noosa features a custom upholstered daybed with blue furnishings in a library room, creating a nautical look with abundant natural light and water views. Finally, a historic Brisbane home renovation incorporates a custom window bench with built-in storage in the second living area, offering a functional and stylish spot with calming cool-toned cushions, complementing a classic white timeless style. These examples collectively demonstrate how window seats can be tailored to various architectural styles and personal preferences, consistently adding comfort, character, and utility to different living spaces. #WindowSeats #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #CozySpaces #ReadingNooks #StorageSolutions #HomeDecor #ArchitecturalFeatures #ResidentialInteriors

This article offers seven expert-approved design strategies to address and transform awkwardly placed or unusually shaped windows into intentional and aesthetically pleasing features within a home. The guidance is suitable for both renters seeking budget-friendly solutions and homeowners considering more permanent changes. One primary technique involves creative curtain placement. Interior designers suggest using window treatments to "cheat" the window's perceived location by mounting curtains significantly wider than the window itself. This optical illusion can effectively adjust the window's appearance without requiring structural modifications. Another strategy focuses on strategic furniture positioning. By thoughtfully placing items like a cozy reading nook or a floating shelf, attention can be drawn away from unusual window placements and directed toward functional and inviting elements. An example provided illustrates how a window integrated into a dining nook can appear more intentionally placed with the addition of a built-in L-shaped bench. Consistency in window treatments across a room is also highlighted as crucial. Even if some windows are inherently better positioned than others, maintaining the same type of curtains or blinds throughout the space helps to blend the awkwardly placed window with its surroundings, reducing its perceived oddity and contributing to a cohesive room design. Leveraging lighting to one's advantage is another effective approach. Uneven lighting, a common consequence of peculiar window placement, can be remedied by installing layered lighting options, such as sconces and pendants. This ensures the room remains well-lit and balanced, irrespective of the window's position. Alternatively, designers recommend designating the window as a focal point rather than attempting to conceal it. This involves celebrating the unique design feature by installing attractive window treatments. An example includes embracing an oversized, arch-like window by designing a cozy cove around it, transforming it into a functional and inviting workspace. Incorporating built-ins offers a more permanent solution for homeowners. Surrounding an awkwardly placed window with custom built-in elements can create a cozy nook. One case study details the transformation of a kitchen window with a radiator below it into a reading area with a window seat and shelves, cleverly integrating book storage and a comfortable spot to unwind while providing an outdoor view. Another instance describes installing a shelf beneath windows of abnormal height, flanked by built-ins, to create balance, ground the wall, and enhance storage capacity in a primary bedroom. Finally, for situations where a window's presence is entirely undesirable from the interior, covering it fully with drywall can be an option. This method allows for maximum use of interior space for storage solutions while maintaining the window's visibility and aesthetic from the exterior. These diverse strategies demonstrate that awkward window placements can be successfully managed and even transformed into unique design assets. #HomeDesign #InteriorDecorating #WindowTreatments #FurniturePlacement #BuiltIns #RoomDesign #LightingDesign #HomeRenovation

This article explores eight residential interiors that utilize oversized or uniquely shaped windows to create a strong connection with nature, offering verdant views and tranquil living spaces. Each project showcases distinct approaches to integrating large windows, from urban renovations to homes nestled in forests or on hillsides, emphasizing the role of natural light and outdoor scenery in interior design. The first example, Casa Tres Árboles in Mexico by Direccion, is a weekend retreat featuring neutral tones and floor-to-ceiling windows and French doors that frame lush courtyards, creating a sense of refuge. Hidden Garden House in Sydney, designed by Sam Crawford Architects, transformed an urban home into a sanctuary with a plant-filled sloped roof terrace visible through large windows, providing a private bathing experience. Ome Dezin's renovation of 12221 Benmore, a mid-century home in California, maintains its original charm by incorporating oversized openings to maximize views of the surrounding hillside and enhance its connection to the outdoors. Nisarga Art Hub in Kerala, India, by Wallmakers, functions as both a family home and an arts center. It features earthy interiors with built-in seating positioned to overlook paddy fields through expansive windows. Poet's Corner House in London, an extension by Oliver Leech Architects, addresses dark interiors by adding a four-meter-wide skylight and offering views of a wildflower meadow roof and a rear courtyard. Asmalay, near Mumbai, by Blurring Boundaries, is a curvaceous home designed to wrap around five mango trees. Its oval-shaped windows draw in daylight and provide continuous views of the leafy forest. Memo Architectuur's renovation of Well House in Belgium transformed a dilapidated row house into a bright single-family home, with floor-to-ceiling rear openings that create a picturesque backdrop for the open-plan kitchen and upper-floor balcony. Finally, House Dokka in Norway, by Snøhetta, comprises two stacked timber-clad volumes designed to resemble a floating treehouse. Perched on a hillside, it features large black-framed windows that optimize views of the rocky landscape. These projects collectively illustrate how strategic window placement and design can enhance interiors by integrating natural surroundings, improving daylighting, and fostering a sense of peace and connection to the environment. The selection highlights diverse architectural styles and geographical locations, all united by their innovative use of windows to bring the outdoors in. #TranquilInteriors #OversizedWindows #LushViews #ResidentialDesign #NaturalLight #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #ArchitecturalWindows #NatureIntegration

Plywood, an engineered wood product made from multiple thin layers of wood veneer bonded together, is gaining increasing popularity as a decorative element in residential interiors. Traditionally used for its structural integrity, plywood is now being embraced by designers for its ability to create uniform, tactile, and warm spaces. The inherent wood grain and organic texture of plywood bring a natural aesthetic to interiors, contrasting effectively with other materials and design elements. One prominent example is the Torö summer house in the Swedish archipelago, designed by Atelier Heyman Hamilton with interior design by Matsson Marnell. Here, plywood walls and ceilings are paired with bespoke wooden furniture and soft natural textiles in the bedroom, establishing a serene and cohesive environment. The extensive use of wood throughout the home emphasizes a connection to nature and promotes a sense of tranquility. In London, Nimtim Architects utilized plywood for multifunctional partitions in the Curve Appeal house. These partitions, adorned with decorative arch and circle motifs, ingeniously conceal structural components, services, and sliding doors, thereby maximizing space and adding visual interest. This application highlights plywood's versatility in creating both functional and aesthetically pleasing architectural features. Northcote House in Melbourne, by LLDS Architects, showcases plywood in a more sculptural capacity. A distinctive curving plywood staircase serves as a focal point, leading to the lower levels of the home. The adjacent walls feature swooping plywood panelling that forms a cozy nook for relaxation, demonstrating plywood's potential for dynamic and ergonomic design. Intervention Architecture's renovation of a 24-square-metre micro-apartment in London exemplifies plywood's utility in compact living spaces. Bespoke plywood joinery effectively hides furniture, including a fold-out bed, and provides ample storage, contributing to a more spacious and organized feel. This project underscores plywood's role in optimizing small areas through clever, integrated design solutions. Timjan Villa in Lund, Sweden, an extension by Johan Sundberg Arkitektur, features pale plywood lining the interior walls, which provides a gentle contrast to the grey stone floors. This material choice helps create a bright and airy atmosphere, further enhanced by the presence of green plants and views of the surrounding garden, linking the interior with its natural setting. Workshop Architecture Inc.'s Unfinished House in Canada integrates plywood panelling in its natural hue with light-blue kitchen cabinets and tiles. The exposed Douglas fir plywood and pine wood framing add visual interest and offer practical small storage shelves, showcasing how plywood can contribute to a raw, honest aesthetic while serving functional purposes. Finally, Tikari Works' Pocket House in London, a compact 35-square-metre residence, extensively uses plywood panelling in its bedroom, complemented by a matching bedframe and an adjoining terrace. Plywood also forms a practical kitchen unit, illustrating its adaptability for various functions within a small footprint and its ability to create a cohesive, minimalist design. These projects collectively demonstrate plywood's versatility and aesthetic appeal in contemporary home design, ranging from creating warm, uniform interiors to sculptural elements and ingenious space-saving solutions. #PlywoodPanelling #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #ResidentialArchitecture #WoodInteriors #SustainableMaterials #MicroApartments #CustomJoinery #ModernHomes

This article explores the use of clerestory windows in residential architecture, highlighting eight distinct projects that demonstrate how these high-level glazed strips enhance natural light, privacy, and ventilation within home interiors. Clerestory windows, traditionally found in churches and cathedrals, are increasingly integrated into modern residential designs, positioned just beneath the roofline to maximize daylight penetration. The featured projects showcase diverse applications and aesthetic outcomes. In Australia, Architecture Architecture's 'Sunday' cottage extension in Melbourne incorporates large, translucent clerestory glazing above a mono-pitched roof, blending indoor and outdoor spaces with hollow breeze-blocks and drawing ample light into the home. Proctor & Shaw's 'Heath House' in north London, an extension to a Grade II-listed villa, uses clerestory glazing alongside floor-to-ceiling openings in its kitchen and dining areas to optimize natural light, complementing a material palette of wood and white brick. Denis Joelsons' renovation of 'Sítio Rio Acima' in Brazil, a residential complex near São Paulo, includes the addition of a vaulted ceiling with an arched clerestory window in the main home, which transforms into a luminous 'lantern at night.' In Fukushima, Japan, IGArchitects' 'Forest of Pillars' homes utilize a ring of clerestory windows beneath the roof to ensure privacy from surrounding properties while still allowing light to enter through their slender timber column frames. K59 Atelier's 'Di Linh House' in Vietnam, constructed with local rammed earth and timber, features a strip of clerestory glazing on its west facade positioned above smaller windows. This design strategically enhances privacy and provides effective sun shading in the remote location. Sam Crawford Architects' renovation of the 'Hidden Garden House' in Sydney, Australia, aims to brighten a previously dark interior. The ground floor kitchen features a concrete ceiling that curves upwards, coupled with operable clerestory windows, to draw in winter sun and offer shading. In Hyderabad, India, Kiron Cheerla Architecture designed 'Pott House' with a lantern-like roof that draws both light and natural ventilation into the timber-gridded home. The design centers around a full-height living and dining space beneath exposed timber trusses. Finally, IGArchitects' '2700' in Japan, a two-story home on a narrow plot, uses clerestory windows to increase privacy on the ground floor while simultaneously drawing light into its layered living spaces, defined by exposed concrete walls. These examples collectively illustrate the versatility and functional benefits of clerestory windows, demonstrating their capacity to transform residential spaces by providing optimal daylight, improving natural ventilation, and offering privacy solutions without compromising illumination. The article compiles these projects as visual inspiration from Dezeen's archives, emphasizing the architectural and interior design trends that leverage these specific glazing elements. #ClerestoryWindows #ResidentialArchitecture #HomeInteriors #NaturalLight #ArchitecturalDesign #ModernHomes #ResidentialExtensions #PrivacySolutions #SustainableDesign

This article explores ten popular window seat designs curated from Dezeen's Pinterest boards, showcasing diverse approaches to creating cozy and functional alcoves within residential spaces. The selection highlights how architects and designers integrate window seats into various home environments, from urban apartments to rural lodges and micro-cabins, emphasizing both aesthetic appeal and practical utility. The Mapledene Road project by Platform 5 Architects features a substantial wooden daybed integrated into a glass extension of an east London home, designed to extend outward from the kitchen. Skyhouse, designed by David Hotson and Ghislaine Viñas, includes a window seat positioned within a Manhattan apartment occupying the top floors of a 19th-century tower, intended to enhance the dramatic views. Pamphilon Architects' extension for Hermiston Avenue in London incorporates a large window and daybed in the kitchen, aiming to maximize natural light and open the interior to the garden. V Lodge by Reiulf Ramstad Arkitekter showcases a spacious alcove with a comfortable seat, built into the untreated plywood walls of a Norwegian home. This feature looks out through a glazed gable, framing the surrounding landscape. In the Rocha Apartment by CaSA in Barcelona, a window seat is created on a raised platform within an open-plan kitchen and living area, utilizing terracotta tiles and a timber pergola that extend from the balcony. Micro Cabins by Getaway, designed by Harvard University graduate students, prioritize built-in window seats and beds over conventional furniture to optimize space in tiny vacation homes. Nook House by Mustard Architects, an east London renovation, features a contemporary concrete window seat that seamlessly wraps around a corner to connect with the kitchen worktop, diverging from the home's original period features. Birkedal, a Danish holiday home by Jan Henrik Jansen, incorporates beds within large windows set into the panel-lined walls of its nine cylindrical volumes, aiming to connect occupants with nature. The MMMMMS House by Anna and Eugeni Bach in Camallera includes windows that project from the exterior walls, providing seating areas and shutters that echo the traditional architecture of the surrounding village. Lastly, 50ar by Scenario Architecture in north London features a glazed extension with a bay window seat, which serves to connect the Victorian terraced house's interior directly with the garden. Each example demonstrates a unique integration of window seats, reflecting different architectural styles, material choices, and functional objectives, consistently offering spaces for relaxation, reading, or enjoying views. #Residential #Roundups #WindowSeats #Interiors #Pinterest #HomeInteriors #ArchitecturalDesign #SpaceUtilization #CozyNooks

This article highlights the increasing demand for wide couches that prioritize comfort and spaciousness for all-day lounging. It serves as a comprehensive guide for consumers seeking to purchase a new sofa, emphasizing that while aesthetics are important, the right size and comfort level are paramount for a truly functional living space. The article delves into key considerations for potential buyers, starting with material selection. It advises on choosing durable fabrics like polyester for households with children or pets due to their ease of cleaning, while suggesting velvet for those desiring a more striking and luxurious statement piece. Another crucial factor discussed is the sofa's dimensions. The article stresses the importance of measuring the designated space accurately to ensure the wide couch complements the room without overwhelming it. Despite all featured options being categorized as 'wide,' they vary significantly in shape and exact measurements, necessitating careful pre-purchase planning. The guide also touches upon brand reputation and price points, offering a spectrum of choices from budget-friendly finds at retailers like Wayfair and Target to more premium, designer selections from brands such as Hay and Albany Park. Detailed descriptions of nine specific wide couches are provided, each accompanied by its unique features, benefits, and considerations for different lifestyles. For instance, the AllModern Wide Reversible Sofa & Chaise is lauded for its lounge-worthy L-shape and neutral color options, ideal for those seeking a large, versatile piece. The West Elm Harmony Modular Sectional is presented as a customizable option, allowing buyers to tailor its shape, size, and fabric to their preferences, though this may impact delivery times. The Castlery Dawson 3 Seater Sofa is highlighted for its cloud-like comfort and modern aesthetic at a more accessible price point, suitable for apartments due to its minimal assembly and two-box delivery. For those willing to invest in a statement piece, the Hay Quilton Sofa is showcased as a designer option with a retro appeal and extensive customization in fabrics and colors. The Pottery Barn Dream Square Arm Upholstered Sofa is recommended for its classic design, plush comfort, and customizable square arms, offering various sizes and fabric choices. The BenchMade Modern Like Butter Standard Sofa is noted for its elegant, durable, and luxurious feel, with a lower seat height and deep cushions for a relaxed posture, although it's not the deepest option available. The Wayfair Emilio Recessed Arm Sofa with Reversible Cushions is praised for its deep cushions and extensive fabric customization at a competitive price, making it suitable for tall individuals or movie enthusiasts, though it has a longer delivery timeframe. The Burrow Range 6-Piece Open U Sectional Lounger is presented as an extra-deep, modular option with stain-resistant fabric, quick delivery, and minimal assembly, appealing to those with children or pets and a preference for a modern, low aesthetic. Finally, the Albany Park Park Sectional Sofa is featured as a family-friendly, comfortable sectional with customizable leg finishes and a range of fabric options, including velvet, though assembly might be more involved than anticipated. Each sofa entry includes specific dimensions, upholstery details, and available color options to aid in informed decision-making. #WideCouches #SofaBuyingGuide #FurnitureShopping #HomeDecor #LivingRoomFurniture #ComfortableSeating #SectionalSofas #ModularFurniture #InteriorDesignTrends

This article showcases a curated selection of ten kitchen interiors featuring integrated seating solutions, designed to enhance sociability and functionality within the home. The collection highlights diverse approaches to incorporating built-in seating, ranging from window seats that offer scenic views to benches that serve multiple purposes, such as storage. Each example illustrates how thoughtful design can transform kitchen spaces into more inviting and versatile areas for dining, relaxation, and social interaction. The first example, Birkedal in Denmark by Jan Henrik Jansen, features cylindrical holiday homes where window seats are integrated into the curved walls, offering a connection to the rural environment. The interiors are further grounded by floors lined with pebbles collected from a local beach. Following this, O'Sullivan Skoufoglou Architects' Grove Park project in England incorporates a large picture window in the kitchen, framing views of the garden and woodland. A comfortable seating nook is built into the deep-set window frame, utilizing the same pale ash veneer found throughout the interior to create a cohesive aesthetic. DeDraft's AR Residence in England presents a concrete bench seat in the kitchen that not only complements the dining table but also provides discreet storage for vinyl records. The material palette for this residence emphasizes a muted natural look, combining large-format concrete tiles, exposed Douglas fir roof joists, and lacquered-pine window mullions. Malcolm Davis Architecture's Coastal Retreat in the USA features a double-height interior predominantly clad in plywood. An integrated seating nook with shelving connects the elevated kitchen to the living space, offering expansive views of the rugged Californian coastline, consistent with the Sea Ranch community's modernist architectural ethos. Architecture for London's Low Energy House in England integrates a chunky limestone window seat opposite a matching kitchen counter, fostering a social cooking environment. The renovation project preserves and exposes original Edwardian details like structural masonry walls and timber roof beams. Flitch House in Scotland, designed by Oliver Chapman Architects, includes timber steps with a built-in bench leading to the kitchen and dining area in a garden room extension. This space forms a cozy reading nook with views of the Firth of Forth estuary, completed with a sofa and bookshelf. Office S&M's Mo-tel House in England showcases a vibrant pink timber volume that functions as a dining bench, seating nook, and storage unit in an open-plan kitchen. The interior design is characterized by bright colors and the use of recycled materials, including lampshades made from crushed bricks and bathroom counters fashioned from melted milk bottles and chopping boards. Landaburu Borda in Spain, by Jordi Hidalgo Tané, is an underground house extension nestled into a hillside. A deep concrete sill, adorned with potted plants, runs along the structure, doubling as a seating area with panoramic views of the Navarra mountains. Thomas-McBrien's Dollis Hill Avenue project in England features an oak-panelled volume in a London house extension that cleverly conceals a utility room and provides a secluded seating area overlooking the garden. This alcove is described as a perfect spot for reading and relaxation. Lastly, Matthew Giles Architects' renovation of a Victorian terraced house in England introduces a sunken kitchen accessed through a reading area. This space includes a built-in bookcase and a bench seat surrounded by railings, created using white oak joinery and varied floor levels to define the open-plan ground floor. The overall collection demonstrates how integrated seating can enhance the practicality and aesthetic appeal of kitchen interiors. #KitchenInteriors #BuiltInSeating #WindowSeats #ReadingNooks #HomeDesign #ArchitecturalDetails #ResidentialDesign #InteriorDesign #SpaceSavingSolutions

Banquette seating, traditionally found in cafes and restaurants, has emerged as a functional and aesthetically pleasing element in residential kitchens. Originating from medieval European taverns to optimize space and circulation, banquettes became a hallmark of Parisian bistros by the late 19th century, often upholstered in luxurious materials like leather or velvet to create intimate booths. In contemporary home design, architects and designers are increasingly incorporating banquettes into renovation projects to address challenging floor plans, maximize space, and introduce visual interest to kitchen and dining areas. This lookbook showcases eight examples of residential kitchens across different regions, including Australia, the Netherlands, and the UK, where banquette seating has been strategically integrated. These examples illustrate diverse applications and styles, demonstrating how banquettes can be customized to complement various interior aesthetics and functional requirements. For instance, in 'Sunday' by Architecture Architecture in Melbourne, a kitchen island cleverly doubles as a banquette with a cantilevered seat, saving space in an open-plan layout. The seating is upholstered in a muted textile and paired with a slender timber table and wooden chairs, reflecting a minimalist yet functional approach. Alexander & Co's 'Pacific House' in Sydney features a cozy breakfast nook with a curved banquette positioned against a gridded concave window. The seating, clad in smooth timber and topped with powdery grey cushions, harmonizes with the neutral tones of the jagged-edged marble flooring, creating a sophisticated oceanside retreat. Similarly, DAB Studio's renovation of a Zwaag house in the Netherlands incorporates floor-to-ceiling oak and Afromosia wood, with a large, rounded banquette base made of Afromosia contrasting with a bespoke geometric Arebaescato Orobico marble table. Angelucci Architects' 'Nido House' in Melbourne integrates an L-shaped banquette upholstered in green leather, complementing a ceramic-tiled dining table topped with marble. This design provides maximum space for entertaining while aligning with the home's decorative slate tile-clad extension. In the '10 Fold House' by Timmins + Whyte, a Melbourne residence, a timber corner banquette with peach-hued upholstery and ribbed wooden cabinetry enhances the "considered and crafted" feel of the light-filled, open-plan kitchen, incorporating mid-century style elements. YSG's 'Budge Over Dover' project in Sydney addresses an unusual kitchen floor plan with a curved wall by installing a bespoke banquette upholstered in brown and wine-colored cushioning, creating a snug breakfast nook illuminated by an oversized white lantern. In London, Echlin's mews house renovation includes a plush green banquette in the dining space, nestled behind floor-to-ceiling timber shelving and paired with rattan-accented chairs and a coal-colored table. Finally, Office S&M;'s 'Valetta House,' also in London, features a vibrant purple fabric-clad banquette that adds a pop of color to a white-hued room, complemented by plywood finger pulls on the cabinets for varied texture. These projects collectively demonstrate the versatility of banquette seating in enhancing residential kitchens through clever design and material choices. #BanquetteSeating #ResidentialKitchens #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #SpaceSavingSolutions #Renovations #KitchenDesign #AustralianHouses #DutchDesign

The traditional sofa, while a cornerstone for many living room designs, is not always the most practical or inspiring seating solution, especially in smaller spaces or for those seeking a more distinctive aesthetic. This exploration of couch alternatives aims to broaden perspectives on living room seating, moving beyond conventional settees to present a variety of creative and functional options. One prominent alternative is the lounge chair. Investing in one or two lounge chairs offers a blend of comfort and design flair, allowing for individual seating without the need to share space. Design experts highlight that accent chairs, in particular, can make a significant style statement, introducing unique silhouettes, vibrant colors, or engaging patterns that infuse personality into a room. These chairs are versatile, capable of transforming a dull corner, adding an unexpected touch to a hallway or bedroom, or providing a structured yet less imposing seating arrangement when paired in a living room. Examples include iconic designs like the Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman, sculptural metal accent chairs, and elegant fringed chairs, each offering distinct aesthetic and comfort qualities. Ottomans also present a highly versatile alternative, increasingly replacing a second sofa in living spaces. These pieces contribute visual impact and practical functionality. Beyond seating, ottomans and daybeds can serve as coffee tables or surfaces for books and magazines, making them ideal for small living rooms where space optimization is crucial. They can stand alone or be grouped, as seen in open-plan living rooms. Options range from versatile upholstered structures with movable tables to colorful, boho-inspired designs and plush velvet ottomans with customizable fabrics. Creating a window seat is another excellent alternative, providing a tranquil and secluded seating area, particularly effective for enhancing bay windows. When considering kitchen seating, window seats or benches offer space-saving solutions compared to traditional couches. These cozy zones are known to promote wellness, serving as designated spots for relaxation, reading, or other calming activities. Daybeds, being smaller than a sofa but larger than a bench, offer significant comfort and multifunctionality. They are suitable for various rooms, including bedrooms, living rooms, and even entryways as modern bench ideas. Available in statement styles or practical designs with integrated storage, daybeds come in a wide array of options, such as sleek contemporary models, organic rattan designs, and multipurpose IKEA units that combine seating, sleeping, and storage. For a touch of elegance and luxury, a chaise longue invites reclining and relaxation. Many perceive chaises as more comfortable than sofas due to the elevated and supported full-body posture they offer, although they can also be used for upright seating. Designs range from sophisticated and timeless pieces in various fabrics to wide loungers perfect for shared movie watching, and classic upholstered chaises that blend comfort with traditional aesthetics. Utilizing awkward alcoves with bespoke benches maximizes space that might otherwise remain unused. Custom-built furniture, unlike freestanding pieces, allows for tailoring to specific architectural features like sloped ceilings or chimney breasts, ensuring every inch of space is optimized for both seating and storage opportunities. Finally, the loveseat provides a cozy mid-point between an armchair and a full-sized sofa. Ideal for small living rooms, bedrooms, or kitchen corners, loveseats are designed for more than one person but typically feature more compact dimensions than a standard two-seater sofa, fostering an intimate and snug seating experience. Available in diverse styles, from curvaceous loungers to luxurious leather models and stylish asymmetrical designs, loveseats offer functional and charming seating. These alternatives demonstrate that a living room does not inherently require a couch. Creative furniture choices and strategic living room layouts can result in a stylish mix of seating options, with quality lounge chairs or elegant chaises effectively serving as central seating, particularly beneficial for smaller spaces where traditional sofas might be impractical. #CouchAlternatives #LivingRoomSeating #LoungeChairs #Ottomans #WindowSeats #Daybeds #ChaiseLongue #BespokeBenches #Loveseats

This article showcases eight living rooms that utilize low-slung furniture to create a relaxed and informal ambiance. Low-back sofas and armchairs are highlighted as key elements in achieving this aesthetic, often offering a more generous width and a less upright sitting position, making them feel similar to beds. The article emphasizes that this furniture style is effective in various interior designs, from open-plan spaces where it can subtly divide areas without creating separation, to softening heavily decorative rooms. It draws examples from Dezeen's archive, providing visual inspiration through a lookbook format. The featured examples include a London loft renovation by Emil Eve Architects, where an L-shaped low-slung sofa complements exposed brickwork walls, maintaining the industrial character while adding comfort. Another instance is Casa Vasto in Barcelona by Mesura, a converted factory apartment and art gallery, where low-lying furnishings enhance the high, vaulted ceilings and provide an optimal backdrop for displaying art. The modular sofa system and a coffee table made from construction waste contribute to the adaptable and art-focused environment. Of Architecture's House by the Sea in Cornwall demonstrates how a low-back modular L-shaped sofa in a beige marl fabric creates a casual lounge area that connects with the adjacent kitchen and allows for expansive views of the Newquay coastline through large sliding windows. In Sausalito Outlook, USA, Feldman Architecture renovated a 1970s house, incorporating iconic Michel Ducaroy-designed Togo chairs and sofas by Ligne Roset. These slouchy, foam-filled pieces offer supportive comfort and establish two distinct seating zones for various activities, all while maximizing the San Francisco Bay view. Woods + Dangaran's Twentieth house in Santa Monica, USA, consistently features generous, low furniture pieces across its three stories, designed for both daily living and hosting gatherings. A notable example includes four club chairs with swivel bases arranged around a polished stone coffee table. Auba Studio's NZ10 Apartment in Palma de Mallorca, a converted bakery, illustrates how low-back furniture seamlessly integrates indoor and outdoor spaces. The apartment's full-height sliding doors open to a patio, and a casual, extended low sofa lines one side of the lounge, promoting a relaxed connection with the exterior. Rodolphe Parente's Apartment Canal Saint-Martin in Paris showcases a sculptural vintage sofa upholstered in mustard-yellow velvet within a renovated Haussmann-era apartment. Its formal yet low-profile design complements the historical architecture while introducing a contemporary feel, echoed by other playful artworks. Finally, KOS+A's Sag Harbor 2 in the Hamptons prioritizes sunset views from a waterfront house. To maintain unobstructed views through the largely glazed facade, a low-slung L-shaped sofa and a curved club chair were chosen for the family lounge, emphasizing an unobtrusive furniture approach. #LivingRooms #LowSlungFurniture #InteriorDesign #ResidentialInteriors #Sofas #Armchairs #ModernDesign #HomeDecor #InteriorArchitecture

Designer Lisa Tharp collaborated with TMS Architects to renovate an 1890s carriage house in New England, transforming it into a unique family home with a "fairy-tale" ambiance. The renovation focused on emphasizing the indoor-outdoor connection and preserving historical elements while integrating modern additions for a 21st-century family. The initial phase involved stripping back myriad additions to revert to the original footprint of the carriage house, which included notable features such as turrets, nooks, exposed rafters, and multiple fireplaces. These historical aspects were meticulously retained and integrated into the new design. Tharp's design philosophy incorporated a strategic use of color, treating singular vibrant colors, like amethyst in the living room, as neutrals by employing various shades and depths. This approach aimed to create a cohesive yet rich visual experience. To balance these strong color choices, neutral tones such as Benjamin Moore’s Galveston Gray and Farrow & Ball’s Pitch Black were introduced. The design also drew inspiration from a blend of European stone carriage houses and Napa Valley wineries, influencing the overall aesthetic. A key element of the renovation was enhancing the connection to the outdoors. Downstairs windows were left without treatments to maximize views of the New England countryside, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted. Rough beams were added around these windows, mirroring the exposed rafters inside, which themselves were treated with baking-soda abrasion to achieve a lighter, more contemporary appearance. The kitchen features gray cabinets and live-edge shelves built into a castle-like arch, further contributing to the envisioned aesthetic. The home boasts several distinctive design features, including numerous window seats – nine in total across various rooms, offering cozy spots with picturesque views. Lighting fixtures were chosen for their unique and artistic qualities, with modern and graphic pieces in the kitchen, oversized and airy chandeliers in the master bedroom, and geometric designs in the master bathroom. Tharp emphasized that vertical height in spaces allowed for larger, more impactful lighting choices. The kitchen's design was notably influenced by the client's preference for stone flooring, leading to the creation of a custom 18.5-foot-long double island with both stone and oak surfaces. The whimsical character of the home culminates in a turret bedroom adorned with lilac Phillip Jeffries grass cloth wallcovering and a window seat piled with cushions. This room exemplifies the designer's approach of combining diverse patterns and colors in a playful manner. Other notable areas include a landing with custom window seats and sconces, a porch with arches that inspired similar architectural elements throughout the house, and a master bathroom featuring floor-to-ceiling wall tile for enhanced impact. The project successfully merged historical integrity with modern living, creating a residence that evokes a sense of enchantment and comfort. #HomeDesign #CarriageHouseRenovation #LisaTharp #NewEnglandArchitecture #InteriorDesign #HistoricPreservation #CustomInteriors #EuropeanInspired #NapaValleyInspired

Window seats offer a multitude of practical and aesthetic benefits, making them a desirable feature in any home. Beyond their inviting appearance, these built-in seating solutions can transform underutilized areas into functional and comfortable spaces. One of their primary advantages is their ability to maximize natural light and offer picturesque views, whether of a bustling garden or a serene cityscape. They are inherently multi-functional, capable of serving various purposes throughout the day. For instance, a window seat can easily double as a work-from-home station during daylight hours, providing ample light and a focused environment. As evening approaches, it can transition into a casual dining area, perfect for intimate meals or entertaining guests. A key practical benefit of window seats is the integrated storage they often provide. This hidden space can be invaluable for decluttering, allowing homeowners to store items such as cushions, books, or even gardening tools discreetly. The design can incorporate hidden drawers or lift-up seats to maintain a sleek and streamlined appearance, contributing to an organized and tidy living space. From an architectural perspective, window seats play a crucial role in framing views and drawing the eye outwards, establishing a stronger connection between the interior and the external environment. This design approach offers an alternative to extensive full-width glazing, demonstrating that a deep connection with the outdoors can be achieved through thoughtful, localized interventions. Designing a window seat requires careful planning and collaboration with designers and builders to ensure that both aesthetic goals and functional requirements are met. Attention to detail is paramount, especially in concealing fixings and joins to achieve a polished finish. The height of a window seat is also critical for comfort, ideally aligning with a standard chair height. Material selection is another important consideration, with options ranging from tactile birch-faced plywood for a natural aesthetic to robust hardwood like oak for added character. Concrete is presented as an extremely durable and versatile alternative, capable of being molded into various shapes. Architects and designers emphasize the importance of material continuity or contrast. Using the same material as other elements in the room can create a cohesive look, while introducing a different material can help differentiate the window seat as a distinct feature. The article showcases five inspiring ways to integrate window seats into home renovation projects. These include extending the structure outwards to maximize light and views, seamlessly connecting the window seat material to kitchen worktops, retaining original character in period homes, mixing materials for visual interest, and creating curved nooks for an intimate feel. These examples highlight the versatility of window seats in various architectural contexts and design schemes. The cost of building a window seat can vary widely based on size and materials, with bespoke options starting around £2000 per square meter. A crucial design aspect is the depth of the seat, ideally between 18 and 22 inches for comfortable sitting, extending to 24 inches for lounging. An insufficient depth can render the seat uncomfortable and underutilized. Incorporating lighting and electrical sockets is also recommended, especially if the window seat is intended to serve as a home office or a charging station for electronic devices. These considerations ensure that the window seat is not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional and comfortable, enhancing the overall living experience. #WindowSeatIdeas #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #BuiltInSeating #SpaceMaximization #HomeRenovation #StorageSolutions #ArchitecturalDesign #MaterialSelection

This article explores a collection of eight residential interiors where wardrobes transcend their functional purpose to become central design elements, challenging the traditional notion of concealing storage. It showcases various innovative approaches by architects and designers who have transformed wardrobes into eye-catching focal points within homes. The article begins by featuring Leather Dressing in the UK, designed by Simon Astridge, where rust-coloured leather lines the floor and sliding wardrobe doors of a dressing room, creating a distinctive centrepiece in a renovated London house. Astridge highlights the sensory experience, noting the pleasant scent of leather emanating from the 'leather tunnel.' Following this, Casa Triana in Seville, Spain, by Studio Noju, presents a vivid yellow wardrobe within an open-plan apartment. This brightly coloured unit stands out against white surroundings, providing a striking backdrop for clothing while also helping to define separate zones within the fluid living space. Raúl Sánchez Architects' Magic Box Apartment in Spain features a shiny brass wardrobe positioned centrally. This wardrobe is designed to mimic a precious jewellery box and functions as a partition between rooms, incorporating a 'secret passageway' in its middle. The architect's choice of brass aimed to impart a magical and precious quality to the object. Pedro Varela & Renata Pinho's Yellow Apartment Renovation in Portugal also utilizes a vibrant yellow wardrobe. This piece is integrated into a wall of storage that divides the apartment. Unique design elements include circular openings of varying sizes that serve as handles and a pull-out step with a smiley-face cut-out. Wood Ribbon in Paris, by Toledano + Architects, showcases a sinuous plywood wall that snakes through the apartment. This structure divides the residence into three zones and cleverly incorporates doorways, a dressing room, and storage areas for clothes, including one located in the hallway. Adam Nathaniel Furman's Nagatachō Apartment in Tokyo features a sugar-sweet colour palette throughout, extending to the bedroom. Here, a built-in wardrobe is accentuated with bright baby-blue doors and yellow semicircular motifs, contrasting with the white and green walls. Cavaa's Galla House in Spain integrates a blue-painted wardrobe that, despite its seamless appearance, becomes a prominent feature. It includes wooden drawers for shoes, taller cupboards for hanging clothes, and a deep window seat, catering to both human and feline occupants. Finally, the Versailles Studio Apartment in Australia, by Catseye Bay Design, features a wooden wardrobe that serves as a privacy screen for the bed. Projecting diagonally from a bedroom wall, this two-metre-high structure combines clothes storage with shelving and conceals an upholstered bench looking out to a window. These examples collectively demonstrate how wardrobes can be creatively integrated into interior design, becoming more than mere storage units but rather integral architectural and aesthetic components of a home. #WardrobeDesign #InteriorDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #StorageSolutions #FocalPoint #CustomFurniture #HomeDecor #ModernLiving #SpatialPlanning