A design challenge I’ve come across lately is how to style and arrange furniture in a space without blocking the flow of energy between livable space and prominent windows/doors.

Minimalist, clean-lined, low-profile seating invites light to dance through the space. I especially love the deliberate placement of the chaise in front of the window. Image sourced from Pinterest.

Windows (of any kind) and floor-to-ceiling glass doors are such a gift. They invite the outdoors in, amplify the amount of natural light felt within a space, and bring about an overall sense of airy openness. Nature is known to help with healing, sunlight is known to help with depression and feeling connected to the outdoors can offer a welcomed sense of grounding and perspective. Remembering these benefits as you endeavor to style your space around the presence of windows can be very helpful.

This post is most valuable for those who have windows or doors that make up entire walls, as you have no choice but to situate some furniture in front of them if you plan to make good use of the space. However, it is also applicable for any space with windows acting as strong points of visual interest (meaning they’re located front and center of the liveable space).

Here are a few of my go-to tricks for how to maximize the presence of windows and doors without compromising your other living needs…

Floor-to-ceiling window treatments draw your eye toward the windows, add a nice layer of luxe and invite you to feel small in comparison to the outdoor surroundings. Image sourced from Pinterest.

Backless benches are a great way to make use of floor space directly in front of windows, without impeding the views. Image sourced from Pinterest.

I read somewhere, “pretend the windows are a stage” and I loved it. This works especially well if your view is striking and intended to be the main focal point of the room (ie. no fireplace, tv, etc.). If that’s the case, consider arranging furniture in a semi-circle arrangement with the view at the center, with every piece of seating offering at least a small glimpse of it. Dress the windows with floor-to-ceiling theater-style drapery to emphasize the height of the ceilings, draw your eye upward and give off an elegant look.
Low profile furniture: The more slim/sleek the look of the furniture being placed in front of a window, the more light and airiness can flow through. Example: substitute high wing-back chairs for benches or more clean-lined accent chairs.
Off-center placement: Sometimes by placing one or two pieces of furniture off to one side of the wall of windows, leaving the opposing side free to admire (and clear to walk up to) without anything blocking it, a strong sense of openness can be retained.
A few instead of one: When deciding what to place in front of windows, consider substituting one heavy sofa or loveseat for two chairs or other accent pieces instead. It breaks up the flow and lightens the energy by making the windows feel more accessible and part of the space. When you put a loveseat or sectional in front of it, the energy can feel completely blocked.
Angling: Play around with how you angle furniture, to both maximize space and increase flow. When a chair or chaise is angled slightly, it impacts how foot traffic AND the flow of energy moves through the space, often allowing it to become more fluid and transitional. Also by turning pieces inward toward each other, it fosters good conversation and draws your eye to open space.
Sometimes leaving the windows fully untouched/undressed is the way to go (contrary to what was said above about floor-to-ceiling window treatments!). The simplicity allows you to look straight through from inside to out without being drawn toward the accessories highlighting the barriers between the two (ie. shades or drapes).
Consider putting your most eye-catching, beloved piece of furniture directly in front of the window as a statement piece. Not only will it act like a sculpture, but it also intensifies the drama of the window.
Opt for neutrals and/or solids - fewer patterns will create less distraction and therefore not take away from the views.
Consider creating a solo seating area or window bench in front of a window. The solo time is a beautiful way to honor the views and reap the mental wellness benefits of the outdoors even more.
Plants & greenery: If your windows look out onto landscaping or outdoor greenery, consider including a few plants within the interior to make the flow of indoor/outdoor feel more cohesive.
And lastly, as I ALWAYS say… trial and error is your best friend! Some layouts can be extremely unique and difficult to figure out and the best flow may not be achieved right away… And, of course, I’m here to help!

Until next time,

LG