Window seat at dining table?

[JoanDarc]

We’re extending, our kitchen will a L shape with island and then dining table in front of window. I’m limited in length of room so trying to find solutions to save space and our architect suggested a window seat at our dining table. Anyone got experience of one? Our dining table seats 8, so window seat will be for 3 on one side, with chairs at other side & each end.
Plan attached.

I think it sounds like a good idea. Would the window seat even be used very often? Our dining table seats six, but is pushed right up against a wall as space is a consideration (small kitchen diner). We can pull it out if necessary, but generally there are only three or four of us so it's not an issue.

@Mydogdoesntlisten that’s a good point, there’s only four of us so wouldn’t need to use the window seat unless entertaining but think the kids would be keen to use it. I’m also thinking about it being a space to stretch out and relax with a book, if I ever get some time to chill!

We're in the middle of doing just that and I'm really excited about it! I think it's going to be a great use of space and I think we can make it more comfy than normal dining chairs. I really wanted to have a bi-fold window with matching window seat ok the outside too but budget isn't going to stretch that far unfortunately.

Honestly, I think you need to rethink the island. It seems to be taking up an awful lot of space. I'd get rid of it and replan the kitchen to a u-shaped one. You'd have plenty of space for a dining table then.

Have you considered incorporating banquette seating with the kitchen island? Some examples attached

It looks like you have seating at your island too? I don’t think I is bother with that if the dining table is so close- that would save you some space too.

I like the idea of the window seat though!

*I’d, not I is

@dramalamma how exciting! It would be great to hear your thoughts once installed. I hope you like it!
@Peanutsandchilli from the edge of the island (stool side) to start of window seat there is 2.5m, table is 90 cm wide so I’m happy enough with space available especially as it’s only access to the chairs or stools and not a through route.
@242Mummy I looked at that set up but we use our current breakfast bar seating and dining table, mainly the kids, so want to retain both seating options.
@ATowelAndAPotato the stools when not in use will be completely flush under island so hopefully not an issue.

We have our table with a bench in the bay window. I got a bench made to order to fit the space (victorian trapezium bay, not square) as wanted to be able to pull it out a bit when we extend the table to fit more people along that side.
Table is oval (with straight sides but rounded ends) to make it easier to get in and out of the bay bit. We had an extending table made to order by an etsy seller as wanted to be able to put in extra leaves to fit in a crowd at Christmas etc. So can seat up to 7 or 8 as is, then at a push 18 or so when we have family and friends round.
I'm happy to pm pictures if helpful

Sounds like a good way to provide additional seating at the table that isn’t needed that often.
One bug bear I have with bench seating is about the height off the floor - obviously everyone has different heights and lengths of leg, but it is so annoying when either your legs won’t fit under the table because the bench is too high, or your feet are dangling off the floor… so worth giving ergonomics a thought!

Good idea. Make sure you have a pedestal table (no legs at the corners) so it is easy for people to slip into the bench seat.

Thanks everyone, that’s definitely a consideration as our much loved oak dining table has solid legs at the edge so not the easiest for squeezing past. I’ve been considering an extending table and have seen one with legs that would fit the bill.
@TeaandHobnobs that’s a good point, will make sure I remember to measure this when it comes to install.

Window seats can be quite chilly. BIL has one in their extension, it's nice for a cup of tea but I wouldn't want to sit in one for a long dinner.

I think it’s a good idea and love the thought of curling up with a book there!

Only thing I’d say is, I personally am not keen on this type of seating because I like to be tucked up to the table when I eat. I dislike having to lean forward towards the table as is often necessary when eating from fixed seating, it gives me a sore back. I also find children tend to drop food down themselves and onto their laps.

Possibly not an issue for your household, especially if the seating won’t be used often, but thought I’d mention it.

Yes I think the consideration would be whether you have to move the table towards the seat to ‘tuck’ people in once sitting then move it back out when they want to get up?

Not comfy for sitting at for long, as nothing to lean back on? Draughty too.

How about banquette seating like someone else suggested? We have a corner bench upholstered seating from Danetti, look at their website for examples, although I wouldn’t necessarily recommend them as after 2 years the faux leather is seriously showing signs of wear.