Window Seat and Bay Window Cushions: A Guide for Australian Homes

Quick answer: Measure the seat at the front and back edges and the depth, in mm, and use a paper template for angled bay windows. Choose 50 to 100 mm of foam, a zip so the cover can be removed, and a fade-resistant fabric because window seats get a lot of sun. Warwick fabrics suit most interiors, and Sunbrella is a good choice for very sunny windows.

From Federation bay windows to modern reading nooks, a window seat is one of the best spots in the house, as long as the cushion fits. Window seats are rarely perfectly square, so a ready-made cushion almost never sits right. Here is how to get a custom cushion that does.

Measure for the shape you actually have

• Rectangular seats: measure the width at the front and back and the depth. Walls are often not square, so use the smaller measurement if they differ.
• Bay windows: the seat is often a trapezoid with angled ends. Measure the front, back and both sides, or trace a paper template.
• Seats with trims or notches: note any architraves, posts or cut-outs so the cushion can be shaped around them.

Our mm measuring guide has more detail.

Foam thickness

Most window seats suit 50 to 100 mm of foam. Go thinner if the sill sits low or the seat doubles as a display ledge, and thicker if it is a reading nook you will lounge on. See our foam thickness guide.

Fabric that copes with the sun

Window seats sit in direct sun for hours, so fade resistance matters. Warwick offers a wide range of interior fabrics, and its performance ranges such as Eastwood and Jefferson are popular for everyday seating. For the sunniest north-facing windows, a solution-dyed Sunbrella upholstery fabric holds its colour best.

Finishing touches

• A zip along the back so the cover can come off for cleaning
• Piping for a crisp, tailored edge
• Scatter cushions and bolsters against the window frame

Step by step: measuring a bay window seat

1. Measure the back edge along each wall section, in mm.
2. Measure the front edge of each section.
3. Measure the depth at each corner.
4. If those numbers don't add up neatly, make a paper template of the whole seat and mark the front.
5. Decide whether you want one cushion or a separate cushion for each section. Separate pieces are easier to lift and fit.

We cut within ±13 mm of your measurements and remake it free if the cut is outside that. Template cushions take 5–6 weeks to make; standard shapes take 2–3 weeks. For a seat with angled ends, start with a trapezoid cushion.

Window seats with storage

If the seat lifts for storage, choose a firm foam so the cushion keeps its shape each time the lid opens, and consider separate cushions over each lid so you only move one at a time.

Styling ideas

• A soft velvet seat with textured scatter cushions for a cosy reading nook. See velvet cushions.
• A textured weave in a mid-tone for a family room that sees daily use.
• Wipe-clean faux leather for a breakfast-nook window seat.

Mistakes to avoid

• Assuming the walls are square.
• Choosing a thickness that blocks the window opening or latch.
• Pale colours in a north-facing window without a fade-resistant fabric.
• Choosing a colour from a screen; order swatches and check them in the window itself.

Foam for Australian orders is made in Australia by our partner Premier Group, and GST is handled for you.

Ties or no ties?

Most window seats sit between walls, so the cushion can't slide far and ties aren't needed. On an open bench or a seat that people sit on from the end, ties in matching fabric keep it in place.

Get started

Build your cushion on our indoor bench and window seat cushions page, or order a banquette cushion for a breakfast nook. Shipping is free anywhere in Australia, and prices are shown in AUD.

Frequently asked questions

How thick should a window seat cushion be?

Usually 50 to 100 mm. Go thinner for a low sill and thicker for a reading nook.

Can you make a cushion for an angled bay window?

Yes. Send us the measurements of every side or a paper template and we will make it to that shape.

What fabric is best for a sunny window seat?

A fade-resistant fabric. Warwick's performance ranges suit most interiors, and Sunbrella upholstery fabric is best for very sunny windows.

Will the cover be removable?

Yes. Our custom cushions have a zip so the cover can be removed for cleaning.

Do you ship window seat cushions free in Australia?

Yes. Shipping is free anywhere in Australia, and prices are shown in AUD.