What Is the Cost to Install a Window Seat?
Normal range: $1,000 - $6,000
Adding a window seat costs an average of $2,500, but pricing can go anywhere from $500 to $8,000 based on the material, size, design, and labor expenses.
Dreaming about curling up on a window seat with a good book and a cup of hot cocoa? Your dream can be a reality for an average cost of $2,500. Depending on the extent of your project, you could pay as little as $1,000 or as much as $6,000 for installation.
- Average
- $2,500
- Low end
- $500
- high end
- $8,000
Cost to Install a Window Seat by Type
The costs associated with building a window seat vary depending on the type of seat you choose. But usually, you can expect to pay between $1,000 and $6,000. Window seats are popular design choices for a reason—they're welcoming, warm, and provide a comfortable alternative to couch seating.
| Type of Seat | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Reading nook | $500–$4,000 |
| Standard window seat | $2,500–$3,500 |
| Built-in daybed under a window | $1,000–$8,000 |
| Semi-circle or U-shaped | $1,000–$8,000 |
Reading Nook Window Seat
A reading nook window seat usually costs $500 to $4,000 to build. Reading nooks are smaller-sized seats that can go under a regular window or a bay window, depending on what you have available in your home. The cost will vary based on the type of seating, the materials, and whether or not you have storage available under the bench.
Standard Window Seat
Standard window seats cost between $2,500 and $3,500 for installation. Homeowners usually install these seats in a recessed nook with a five-foot seat. The cost can fluctuate based on the materials you choose and any custom features you add on, such as storage, outlets, or lighting.
Built-In Daybed Under Window
The cost for a built-in daybed under a window generally runs between $1,000 and $8,000. This is a versatile option for a window seat because you can use it for seating; it also doubles as a sleep space for guests (or you if you fall asleep reading in the window). The best place for a daybed window seat is under a larger regular window or bay window in a guest room or office.
Semi-Circle or U-Shaped
Semi-circle or U-shaped window seats usually run between $1,000 and $8,000. This design is suitable for a nook in a den, bedroom, or keeping room. You can construct the cushion design either using banquette seating or individual cushions.
Window Seat Cost by Material
You can expect to pay between $550 and $6,000 on materials alone. When choosing your materials, you have a good range of options as far as the structure and the upholstery for cushions and pillows. Here's a breakdown of some of the most popular choices.
| Material | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Plywood | $450–$3,500 |
| Hardwood | $1,000–$6,000 |
| Velvet | $25–$70 per yard |
| Polyester | $10–$30 per yard |
| Twill | $30–$50 per yard |
| Linen | $20–$30 per yard |
Plywood
Finish-grade plywood is a standard material builders use in window seats and costs around $450 to $3,500. Plywood is not as durable as hardwood, but it's easier to work with and can be stronger than hardwood when layered. Plywood also doesn't have knots, which can be hard to work around, whereas many grades of hardwood do.
“Furniture-grade plywood is a great choice, but it doesn’t have the look of real wood,” says Bob Tschudi, Angi Expert Review Board member and general contractor in Raleigh, NC. “So you can either use furniture-grade plywood and install pencil molding in front to look like wainscoting, or you can install utility-grade plywood and face it with shiplap or another surface wood.”
Hardwood
The cost of hardwood for a window seat usually comes in between $1,000 and $6,000. Hardwood can be more challenging to work with than plywood, but some homeowners prefer the look of polished hardwood grain. There are some advantages to using hardwood, like rot-resistance in some cases, and in general, it has a more elegant look.
Velvet
Velvet fabric for upholstering your window seat will run you between $25 and $70 per yard. A popular upholstery choice because of its soft texture, velvet is a good choice if you want a classic look. Caring for velvet is more complicated than other fabrics, so be sure to research the exact fabric before making your selection.
Polyester
You can expect to pay between $10 and $30 per yard for polyester fabric for your window seat. Designers like to use polyester for upholstery because it's easy to clean, durable, and comes in various colors and patterns. Be careful when choosing a fabric rating, or you could end up with a cushion that pills or isn't comfortable to sit on.
Twill
Twill fabrics usually cost between $30 and $50 per yard and are another durable option for window seat cushion upholstery. Available in many colors and patterns, twill is stain resistant, which is a plus; however, over time, the fabric's shape can warp with heavy use.
Linen
Linen upholstery fabric for your window seat will cost between $20 and $30 per yard. Known for its light texture and classic look, linen will add a touch of elegance to any window seat. However, it is delicate and less resistant to stains and fading. So if your window seat will get heavy use, it's best to choose another fabric.
Window Seat Cost Breakdown
Materials, labor, and design are all elements you should factor in when thinking about the cost of installing your window seat.
Materials
The materials for your window seat are a significant factor in the cost, and you can expect to pay between $350 and $7,000. Your wood and fabric choices can vary widely in price, and the cost also depends on how large and elaborate your project is. A window seat with storage, for example, will require more wood than a bench window seat.
Labor
For your window seat project, a local carpenter will usually charge between $50 and $150 per hour, with a total project cost generally running from $200 to $600. However, there are other professionals you might want to consider bringing in for your project, such as a local interior designer or an upholsterer near you. Designers usually charge $50 to $200 per hour, and upholsterers run between $40 and $100 per hour.
Cost to DIY a Window Seat
The cost to DIY a window seat averages between $1,200 and $1,600. A window seat is a doable DIY project as long as you have good carpentry skills. You should also consider whether or not you need outlets installed, which would require a professional electrician. Unless you have professional electrical experience, you should never attempt electrical work yourself.
Hiring a pro for a $1,800 window seat project will be around $200 to $600 of the total, and they'll be able to complete the project accurately and quickly.
How You Can Save Money When Building a Window Seat
There are a couple of ways to save money and still build the window seat of your dreams. Materials choices can save you a bundle if you opt for plywood over hardwood and choose lower-cost fabrics—there are many choices out there. Skipping on bells and whistles like storage and outlets will also equal significant savings on the bottom line.
Frequently Asked Questions
For a professional carpenter, installing a window seat can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days, depending on some aspects of the project. Aside from building the seat itself, if they have to remove any cabinets, shelves, or baseboards, that will add time to the project.
The ideal depth for a window seat is between 17 and 20 inches, and a four-foot-wide bench will comfortably seat two adults—or allow you to stretch out. As far as the height goes, you don't want your window seat to be higher than the bottom of the window, and an ideal height falls between 16 and 21 inches.
You may need a permit to install your window seat. Even though it's an indoor modification, some municipalities require permits for any built-ins added to homes. Check with your carpenter or, if you're DIY-ing, do some research on your city's requirements.