Before & After: Still Studio Built-In Window Seat
One of the spaces that I get asked about the most in the Still Studio is the dining seating area. It’s a built-in corner banquet-style seating space.
It was designed to maximise the amount of seating in the Still Studio. Feather-filled cushions were added to create a comfortable alternative to a sofa, which wasn’t added to the studio.
Why choose built-in seating?
Helps add extra seating.
Make a dining area more comfortable and intimate.
Maximises floor space — you don’t need to allow space to walk around the back of all the chairs, such as in a dining room.
How-to Create Your Own Built-In Seat:
Pull together some references and inspiration from Instagram, Pinterest or google of built-in seating to get a feel for the style you want.
Use these references and measure the available space — this will be basis for your design. Next, start sketching it up - it doesn't have to be perfect, it’s more about communicating an idea and getting a feel for some dimensions.
Tip — If you plan to use the built-in seating for a dining table, consider the height of your table and the height of dining chair seat to guide you. If you are designing it for a lounge room, use a sofa seat height — this will ensure it is ergonomic. Don’t forget to include the height of any seat cushions in this dimension.Once you’re happy with your design, engage a local trade (or if you can, do it yourself!) to create the frame-work. We used a carpenter and a plasterer to get a rendered finish. Don’t forget to be specific about how you what the edges to be finished (sharp edges have a tendency to chip over time).
If you are including seat cushions, you can get in touch with a local upholsterer (you can do this earlier on in the design phase too) or make these yourself if you are handy with a sewing machine. You can ask them to bring along fabric samples and take a tracing of your seat or give them dimensions. Again, be specific about how you want the cushions finished - refer to your references if you aren’t sure.
Top with a selection of plush feather cushions and enjoy!
Get the Look
Fabric — Essential Linen by Cloth Print Co
Upholster — Dusty Road
Cushions — Imprint House
Pendant — Imprint House
If you’d like more confidence designing and decorating homes, enrolments for the Design & Decoration Masterclass are now open! I’d love to have you.