Where to Retreat at Home: Ideas for a Relaxation Zone by the Window Sill

If you live in an apartment with family or friends, sooner or later you'll want some alone time. And we know how to solve this problem. A wide windowsill can easily turn into a sofa and a cozy spot for reading and resting. Be inspired by ideas from our projects and don't be afraid to implement them right now — we have a step-by-step guide to help you. Pro tip: Pillows on the bed and windowsill match in color. This creates a sense of unity in the interior. Design: Rustem Urazmetov

Perfect Spot for Reading Designer Marina Zhukova added individuality to the relaxation area with color — bright combinations create a special mood. Here, bookshelves were placed — this is the perfect spot for reading. Pro tip: To avoid distractions from your favorite book in the evening, Roman curtains were installed. The light source is a small lamp built into the shelf. Design: Marina Zhukova

Simple but Cozy Windowsill If you have wide windowsills at home, take a cue from designer Alexander Arnholdt. The professional didn't overthink it and simply placed two cushioned chairs on the windowsill. It became a comfortable place to rest. Pro tip: A small table was placed right next to the windowsill so that a cup of tea or smartphone can always be put on its surface. Design: Alexander Arnholdt

Windowsill as a Sofa This idea suits owners of apartments with panoramic windows: designer Irina Chistyakova used the spaciousness of the area and decorated a cozy sofa where you can even lie down fully or sit together. Pro tip: Two narrow bookshelves with open shelves were placed on both sides of the windowsill. If you suddenly need a new book, you don't have to go far. Design: Irina Chistyakova

Secret Lounge Zone You probably didn't notice it at first: designers from ToTaste Studio hid the windowsill behind the headboard of the bed and a small armchair. It can also be closed off with a thick curtain if needed. The perfect spot for anyone who wants to find solitude in their own apartment. Pro tip: The windowsill area was highlighted with color (as well as the ceiling) — this added brightness and mood to the interior. Design: ToTaste Studio

Relaxation Area on the Balcony Designer Anna Pavlovskaya came up with a way to expand the bedroom: she connected an insulated balcony to it. Here, a workspace was set up and a wide windowsill was decorated where you can sit and dream. Pro tip: The balcony can be hidden using semi-transparent curtains. They allow enough light to pass through and effectively zone the space. Design: Anna Pavlovskaya

Cozy Relaxation Area in a Child's Room Children sometimes also need to hide from everyone and spend time alone, so designer Natalia Preobrazhenskaya provided a soft windowsill in the child's room. There are closed drawers under the seat where you can store things. Pro tip: The windowsill was painted in a bright green color, and the room instantly transformed. Design: "Cozy Apartment"

Small Windowsill on the Kitchen Why not? Ksenia Strekозa placed a couple of cushions on the wide windowsill — here you can comfortably settle in or temporarily put away unnecessary items while cooking. Pro tip: A wide windowsill in the kitchen can be used as an additional work surface. A low version like this will come in handy when guests arrive (especially if there aren't enough chairs). Design: Ksenia Strekозa

Windowsill with Shelves Another good idea for a child's room was taken from Irina Legotkina's project. The designer decorated a cozy reading nook that children and adults alike will enjoy. Pro tip: Open shelves were placed not only on both sides of the windowsill but also at the bottom — this is convenient for storing blankets and pillows. Design: Irina Legotkina