10 Ways to Fake a Window Seat Even as a Renter

Nothing speaks to my bookworm heart as much as window seat, but, as a renter, I thought my dreams of a window seat would have to wait. Apparently other renters felt the same. These clever folks DIY-ed their cozy nooks and now we can all have a reading haven!

Note that most of the window seat DIYs out there aren’t “from scratch” but start with IKEA products as a base. I chalk this up to IKEA hacks not requiring a full workshop (that renters probably don’t have) and the flatpack pieces make it a breeze to haul up to an apartment.

This DIY bench fromWit & Delightis a storage dream that also integrates so beautifully into their existing living room decor. She usedSEKTION cabinetsas a start, and worked up from there.

And here’s a classic! By now the flipped cube bookshelf into a bench has been a staple hack. It’s not only easy to make, but has storage- a renter’s dream.atelier de curiosite不只是停在那里。他们使用宜家LACK bookshelf as a front base and build out a back that opens for even more storage and lounging! This particular unit is no longer available but theKALLAXshould do the trick just as well.

Marie Mersieruses a mix of BESTA cabinets for a sleek seat that doubles as a display and looks positively cheerful with the bright cushions.

Mollyuses twoNORDLI dressersto take advantage of her corner window. These dressers are shorter than your average dresser, making it just right for a storage seat. She also says the dressers comfortably support her and her husband’s weight. (Also lead image above.)

Vivian pulls together several IKEA pieces (2ALEX Drawer Units, 1Double, and 1SingleBESTA shelf unit) for a window seat that looks built-in.

Shannonput her standard cabinets on casters for flexible seating & storage. This one is a bit more work than the IKEA hacks as you’ll need to build a frame to support the casters. Full directions are available over onHome Depot.

Fake the look of built-ins by matching your window seat top to your window frame like this oneInbetween Architecture. It will make your window seat look like it was always meant to be there.

Flank your window seat withtaller side tablesin the same color for the perfect place for your tea and books, as seen in Vanessa Alexander’s home on My Domaine. Bonus points for matching the wall paint for a seamless look.

Or really carve out a reading nook with bookshelf end caps! I’ve seen people turn the bookshelf out, but I really love howtheses shelvesfrom Habitat Collective face the window seat.

Once your window seat is made, outfit it with a tufted cushion! Erin found that custom cushions were expensive andsewing a box cushionwas easier than expected. Urban Outfitters sells27″x74″ cushionsthat are similar and I can vouch they make great guest beds.