Many housewives think that the window space could be presented from a more practical point of view. Most often, potted flowers or small household items are placed on the windowsill. Today, designers are offering an interesting solution - to make a countertop instead of a window sill in the kitchen. Thus, the space is transformed into a comfortable work surface or relaxation area.
A window sill-countertop is an excellent solution for the interior of a kitchen in a small apartment.
Kitchen design options with a countertop instead of a window sill (photo selection)
The easiest and most affordable option is a direct countertop under the window in the kitchen. This option is ideal for a small room. There are no limits to perfection, so you can safely add functionality to this piece of furniture, for example, with the help of such modifications:
- A work area that smoothly turns into a bar set. This design element is not entirely suitable for a kitchen with a small area. With its help, a U-shaped piece of furniture is created, dividing the space into several sections.
- Folding table. It allows you to expand the dining area for various meals, celebrations and feasts. At the same time, the housewife does not feel discomfort while preparing and serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
- Window sill in the kitchen, turning into a table. In most cases, this variation is placed along the wall where the window is located. This option is the easiest to implement, it does not take a lot of time and does not require significant financial expenditure.
Each type of modification will be discussed in more detail below. Therefore, each person will be able to choose the most optimal way for themselves to use the window space from a practical point of view.
Sink in the kitchen under the window
Often, such window sills for the kitchen are installed with the aim of placing sinks near the windows. To give an aesthetically attractive appearance to a kitchen with window sills, window openings should be decorated with modern curtains. The window sill in the kitchen can be made of various materials, the choice of which depends on the overall interior of the kitchen. This can be artificial porcelain tiles, plastic, chipboard and other modern materials.
When is a window sill used for a stove?
Often the place under the window is used to install a hob. The rationality of this action is peculiar and depends on the accuracy of the housewife. Installation disadvantages:
- Splashes during frying and cooking will stain the window.
- You can't install a hood; it's impractical in winter.
To prevent the fire from being blown out or children being spoiled, use stoves with gas control.
Of the two options, washing in the window sill is definitely preferable.
Advantages and disadvantages of window sill countertops
The window sill table in the kitchen has a number of advantages, especially for small rooms:
- rational and beneficial use of the entire kitchen space;
- high-quality natural lighting in the room;
- the ability to move the sink to the area under the window, which will save space for placing other electronic devices and kitchen utensils;
- additional storage space for small dishes under the windowsill instead of the radiator.
This design can look very stylish and unusual, and can also significantly save space in a small kitchen.
The only disadvantage is that to use the surface for other purposes, you will have to take into account a number of technical parameters. Installing a kitchen unit with a window sill requires special knowledge and skills during the work process, which are not always within the capabilities of apartment owners. Qualified construction teams will help realize all your interior design ideas.
Even in spacious rooms, this option is often used as an additional table.
Lighting, curtains
For additional lighting above the bar counter or work area near the window, install pendant lamps at a distance of 70 cm above the surface or attach wall sconces to the sides of the window opening.
For curtains, preference is given to Roman fabric or roller products with a vertical lifting mechanism. Horizontal blinds and classic short curtains will also be relevant when decorating a window with a window sill-tabletop.
Before installing a tabletop instead of a window sill and using the space under it for household needs, you need to make sure that there is free air circulation around the radiator or central heating radiator. Only thanks to free air circulation, the kitchen will remain dry and warm, and window slopes and walls will not mold.
If a countertop instead of a window sill in the kitchen is used as a table or work area, as indicated in the photo below, a ventilation grill must be built into it or a series of holes must be made. Cabinets under the countertop are equipped with perforated inserts or lattice doors.
Important technical points:
- When decorating the space under the countertop with utility cabinets, despite the ventilation holes, the room temperature during the heating season will decrease by 2-3 °C. An additional radiator compartment or a floor heating system will help compensate for heat loss.
- Before installing the tabletop with your own hands, the window slopes are subjected to antiseptic treatment using a primer and then covered with waterproof paint. These additional measures help prevent mold from growing on surfaces around the window.
- According to fire regulations, the space under the window cannot be used to install a gas or electric stove.
Selecting materials for countertops
Construction stores demonstrate a wide range of modern technologies and materials that allow you to decorate a window sill in the form of a tabletop. Various ready-made designs and individual materials are presented, taking into account the budget, chosen style and color palette of the apartment.
Housewives really like this compact design that combines a window sill and a table.
Artificial stone - acrylic or agglomerate
Agglomerate for countertops is an excellent alternative to expensive granite. It has high strength and excellent appearance. During use, it does not stain, does not wear out, and does not fade under the influence of sunlight. It has significant weight, so you will need to install an additional structure for reliable fastening.
Such a table will be quite narrow - most often this solution resembles a bar counter.
Acrylic is a more budget option. Such artificial stone is available on the market in a wide range of shapes and colors. This makes it possible to realize all the most daring creative ideas. It has less weight and copes well with the effects of water and sun. If damaged, it can be easily restored.
Natural stone - granite or marble
Natural ingredients bring exclusivity and status. Granite and marble countertops will be the focal point of any kitchen. They are characterized by excellent wear resistance and have almost no negative consequences from liquid ingress.
This is ideal for a family of one or two people, however, for more people this option may not be convenient.
Such furniture sets look elegant and do not require labor-intensive care. Over the course of long work they retain their beautiful original appearance.
ADVICE! Stone tables are recommended for large apartments. Otherwise, they look bulky and visually take up free space.
Designers advise you to pay attention that marble can become stained, so it is better to give preference to granite. If the surface is damaged, owners will have to completely replace it; local restoration cannot solve the problem.
A window sill-countertop can serve as a convenient place for preparing food.
Plastic or chipboard
This option is rightfully considered the most budget-friendly, but at the same time it is characterized by minimal strength. For this reason, such a window sill tabletop can serve exclusively as a decorative stand on which light accessories are placed.
Many people like the idea of a countertop instead of a window sill because it allows you to enjoy the view from the window while cooking.
More reliable materials include chipboard (laminated chipboard). They are ideal for a bar table by the window in the kitchen. It is recommended to purchase tiles with a moisture-resistant treatment.
Note! Plastic quickly becomes stained when coloring liquids (coffee, wine, fresh juices) come into contact with it. Also, if the surface is poorly treated due to exposure to moisture, blisters form.
Wood or coated MDF
The window sill countertop in the kitchen is also made of wood (natural or special MDF with plastic or PVC coating). They do not emit negative components, therefore they are considered safe for the human body. They demonstrate an excellent aesthetic appearance, which adds coziness and comfort to the living area.
If you have a large, bright window with a beautiful view, it’s definitely worth adding a small table to it - both as the main dining table and as an additional option.
This material can be easily restored, coated with impregnation or varnish to give it an elegant look. But there is one caveat - if it is exposed to moisture for a long time, fungus will appear and the wood will swell. During operation, defects also appear - stains, cracks, scratches.
It is better to decorate the table under the window from hardwood trees. They interact better with high humidity and are not so damaged by mechanical stress.
Understanding the materials
Before you begin implementing a window sill project in the form of a countertop, you need to decide on the choice of countertop material and note for yourself all the pros and cons of such a decision. In modern construction they often use:
- granite;
- chipboard;
- natural wood;
- plastic;
- MDF;
- fake diamond.
Granite and other types of natural stone make excellent countertop materials. They look very solid, which emphasizes the sophistication of the interior. But their countertop weight leaves much to be desired. Depending on the size, such a stone countertop will easily weigh more than 100 kg. At the same time, to fix the stone countertop, you will need additional supports or expansion of the existing area under the window. Some types of natural stone do not tolerate food or other liquids being spilled on them. Such a tabletop can permanently change its appearance and can only be replaced. But this shouldn’t be ruled out, because we often drink coffee or juices at our desks. Special care will also be required, as well as the application of a protective polymer coating to the stone countertop.
Artificial stone is much cheaper than the previous material. It is increasingly used for the manufacture of countertops. Its types are acrylic stone and quartz agglomerate. The first stone consists of polymer compounds that are mixed with crushed natural stone. This is a rather interesting solution for a countertop. The color palette can be varied, since pigment dyes are added to the stone. The advantages of this solution include minimal heat absorption compared to natural stone. Such a countertop also has no pores through which various substances could be absorbed. Thanks to the structure of the stone, it is easy to join two separate tabletops so that few people will be able to notice it. It is easy to process and a tabletop made of such stone can be of a wide variety of shapes. Disadvantages include the sensitivity of the stone to acids, scratches and high temperatures.
Another type of artificial stone for countertops is quartz agglomerate. From the name it becomes clear what the main component of the stone is. About 90% of quartz is included in the product. It is crushed to crumbs and mixed with polymer additives. It combines the advantages of the previous version of the stone; along with them, a tabletop made of such material will be more resistant to temperature and mechanical stress. Conglomerate stone perfectly tolerates the effects of acids and other chemicals. Among the disadvantages of such a stone countertop are the rather high cost and complexity of installation. Suitable for countertops in the shape of a rectangle or square; complex geometric shapes cannot be created.
Solid wood will be the most luxurious option for a window sill-tabletop. A window sill-tabletop made of oak or ash will fit perfectly into any interior, even a modern one. An experienced craftsman will be able to give such a tabletop any shape that is required. The installation work of the window sill-tabletop is also quite simple. Even if scratches or chips are caused during the process, everything can be repaired using wood putty. Among the disadvantages, of course, is the high price of the window sill-tabletop. For such a product you will have to pay a tidy sum. Wood is also sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity. Periodically, the paintwork on the window sill-table top needs to be updated. In principle, this can be done without dismantling, but there will be unpainted areas of the window sill-table top.
Chipboard and MDF boards are chipboards and fibreboards. They may be similar in appearance, but the cut clearly shows the difference. A countertop made of chipboard has coarser inclusions, while MDF has smaller ones. Color solutions can be very diverse, since the front part of such a tabletop is covered with a special film with a pattern. Among the positive aspects, we can note the ease of processing, the ability to give various shapes, as well as low cost. The disadvantages of the tabletop include increased sensitivity to humidity and the use of harmful adhesives in production, which have a small proportion of emissions into the air of the living room.
One of the latest innovations is countertops made of PVC plastic. They can also have different colors due to the gluing of a special film. Even the user himself can do this if he wishes. The design of the tabletop is very light and can be simply mounted in the required location. This countertop is not afraid of moisture, but does not tolerate high temperatures. There are restrictions on the maximum reach, because it can sag. The product will last quite a long time and does not require any intervention or updating.
Tabletops made of tempered glass look very impressive. This solution is perfect for renovations that are made in a minimalist or high-tech style. In terms of cost, the countertops are quite expensive, since the thickness of the glass is significant. Color solutions can also be varied. The surface of the window sill-tabletop itself is matte or glossy. Washing them is a pleasure. Stains do not stick and everything is cleaned in one motion. The countertops are resistant to high temperatures and do not require special care. The big disadvantage of such countertops is their instability against falling heavy objects.
Preserving your child's vision
If you are a parent, then you know well how difficult it can be to get your child to sit correctly at the table. And if there is still insufficient lighting, then the situation worsens significantly. A desk is, of course, the way out. But it can take up too much space in the room and the child will have nowhere to put the accumulated energy. It is in this case that the window sill-tabletop will be simply irreplaceable. As a material for a tabletop in a children's room, you can choose wood, MDF, plastic or one of the types of artificial stone. It is not recommended to use glass and natural stone for the window sill-table top. This is due to the fact that they absorb heat quite quickly, which can lead to the development of various diseases that are associated with joints, or it will simply chill the muscles on such a tabletop.
Ensure that a professional installs the countertop properly. Heating radiators are most often located under windows. The countertop will completely block it and partially impair the circulation of warm air in the room. This will primarily affect the windows. Condensation will begin to accumulate on them and fungus or mold may develop. To improve this matter, you can make several additional holes in the tabletop and mount special grid guides.
The advantages of a window sill-tabletop over a regular desk are simply enormous. Sunlight is well tolerated by the human eye. They do not get tired, and therefore no harm will be done to them. This is very important for a child, because at school age you have to read quite a lot, which cannot but affect the eyes. Under the tabletop you can place various shelves and drawers. There are ready-made or custom-made modular lockers on wheels that are easy to move from place to place. Pay attention to the photo of the window sill-tabletop, which may become inspiration for you. The projections from the walls to the window can also be used to your advantage by installing several shelves above the tabletop. But don't clutter up the entire space. It is important that there is room for thought to fly. Watch a video about installing such a window sill-tabletop.
Pleasant for the wife
What prevents you from implementing the window sill-countertop project in the bedroom? In fact, that's also where it is needed most. Where to put the toiletry table? Wherever you define it, you will still need to provide additional lighting, since everything must be clearly visible. The light from the window is a completely different matter. For most of the day, you won't even have to think about wasting electricity. For this option, a countertop made of natural stone is suitable if it is in harmony with the overall interior. You can use varieties of artificial stone countertops. Chipboard or MDF is not exactly the solution that sets you in the mood for relaxation and beautiful decoration.
A large mirror can easily fit on the tabletop, and additional drawers and shelves can be placed under it. Then give the task into the hands of a woman, and she will make everything more beautiful than it was before. Thanks to such a tabletop-window sill, the bedroom becomes less cluttered, which means it will be exactly the place where you can relax and put your thoughts in order. If you plan to have a TV, then simply hang it on the wall using a tilt-and-turn bracket. It is advisable to make additional sockets in the slopes near such a tabletop for connecting a curling iron, hair dryer and lamp in the evening.
Workplace
The window sill-tabletop is used not only in those rooms where we are talking about relaxation. This tabletop can easily become a full-fledged workplace. At the same time, it has many advantages compared to a desk or computer desk. Regarding good lighting, it was said above. The useful space of the work area expands. It is easy to place all the required tools or documents on the window sill-table top for a complete overview. A large desk takes up the lion's share of the office space, which is often inconvenient. Watch the implementation of such a window sill-tabletop in the video:
The tabletop can easily support the weight of a laptop or computer. It is easy to provide for the possibility of laying various cables in the window sill-tabletop. To do this, a technological hole is made in the countertop and closed with a special plug. Artificial stone, wood, plastic and MDF are suitable materials for the window sill-countertop in the office. Glass and natural stone will be very inconvenient to handle. Not only due to the cold, but also due to the fact that natural stone will quickly absorb drips from a cup of coffee. Additionally, such a table can be made from a countertop with adjustable height. This will be required if you have to sit in front of the screen for a long time. Changing the position of the tabletop will allow you to work while standing, which will activate mental activity.
Note! If the windows face south, then during the daytime a lot of light will fall on the window sill-tabletop. This can be a hindrance when working with a monitor, since backlight is very disturbing. In this case, be sure to provide blinds or Roman blinds, which will add more comfort.
Window sill-countertop in the kitchen
Interesting wording that might confuse someone. But in fact, the window sill-countertop can be used in two different variations in the kitchen. The area near the window is usually used for walks, so this area can be made useful by extending the kitchen countertop into its area. Thanks to the window sill-countertop, more light will appear, which will simplify the selection of the quantity and quality of ingredients for various dishes, and being in the kitchen will not be so boring when cooking. Also, such a tabletop-window sill can be used as a delimiter of the area between the kitchen and dining room. From a window sill-tabletop you can make a bar counter or a table for snacks and breakfasts.
Suitable materials for such a countertop are natural or artificial stone, various types of wood boards or glass. Family members do not have to sit at such a table for a long time, but in the case of artificial stone or glass for the window sill-tabletop, this will be a great help for the housewife. Cleaning such a countertop is many times faster than wooden tables. Under such a window sill-tabletop near the window you can place a microwave or electric oven. This will use additional space and save common space, which is useful in compact kitchens. Another option would be to use such a tabletop window sill as a table for sharing tea with your other half.
Window sill-tabletop in the living room
You can immediately look at the photo of the window sill-countertop in such a room. This will be simply an incomparable solution. In such cases, the height dimensions of the windows can be increased so that the distance from the floor to the edge of the window is 50 cm or less. Then such a window sill-tabletop can be used as additional seating space. This will allow you to accommodate more guests in the house. And who among us doesn’t like to wrap ourselves in a blanket and drink warm tea while sitting on the windowsill? The tabletop in this case will bring great pleasure. In this case, your choice should not be on natural stone for the window sill-tabletop. Artificial or better natural wood will do. They are the ones who will be able to convey a feeling of coziness and guarantee comfort. To order, it is easy to make a window sill-table top from chipboard, which will be covered with soft material.
Window sill-countertop in the bathroom
The use of a window sill-countertop in the bathroom is possible if a large window is installed without it. This is a rather non-standard solution for a window sill-tabletop, which requires a painstaking approach to implementation. For example, such a countertop can be made to flow smoothly into a washbasin and a table for accessories. This will require a good project to accurately guess the dimensions. Under the window sill-countertop you can make a functional area where a washing machine and dryer will be installed. When they are under the countertop, they look less bulky and the bathroom space seems larger.
Above the window sill-tabletop you can attach a bedside table with a mirror and additional lighting. Natural or artificial stone can be used as the basis for such a countertop. Plastic will not be able to harmonize with the tiles, and chipboard and MDF will quickly lose their original shape due to high humidity indoors.
Options for arranging a window sill-countertop
This kitchen with a countertop by the window can be made in an unusual design. Let's take a closer look at each unique design idea.
Functional – additional work surface
Converting an ordinary window sill into a countertop allows you to expand the kitchen space, in particular the work area. The room is not cluttered with unnecessary things, and the hostess gets the opportunity to cook with a pleasant view.
The room is filled with natural light, which has a beneficial effect on vision.
Comfortable – bar counter or full table
Most often, a wide stand is used as an alternative to a table. But it is possible to arrange it in a more interesting modification - folding, corner and U-shaped. All the proposed projects are not difficult to complete; the main thing is to select the top surface and equip it with the necessary components (supports, underframe).
The end result will be a beautifully lit area for snacks and meals.
Window sill countertop with built-in sink
For most housewives, this is the most desirable option. But it is not as easy to implement as other mentioned projects. After all, in addition to designing the work area, you will also need to think about how to lay the pipeline to this place.
For most housewives, this is the most convenient and practical option.
There are also some nuances, for example, insufficiently wide window slopes, which will lead to regular splashing of the glass, and difficulties in opening windows. Therefore, you should be very careful in preparing a plan for the implementation of your idea.
Window sill - a place to relax
This unconventional approach is considered a classic option for American homes. Designers turn the window sill into a narrow sofa. A surface made of the most durable material, which is covered with dense fabric with padding polyester, is suitable. It is possible to complement the interior with bright pillows.
In such an atmosphere it is pleasant to relax and drink a cup of coffee or tea, peering into the distance of the landscapes.
Window sill-tabletop with small storage system
This variation allows you to store kitchen utensils not only on top, but also by hiding them under the countertop. For this purpose, a cabinet is made instead of or near the radiators. The designer is also offered to build in small open shelves into which small household appliances, cups, towels or other items will be placed.
Modern solutions make it possible to successfully place such a structure both in an ordinary “Khrushchev” and in a spacious house in a classic style.
Window sill as a dining table
It is designed in the same way as the bar counter, but with the only difference - this tabletop is made counter and wide. This is necessary in order to withstand the massive weight and accommodate all family members.
This is an ideal solution for a small kitchen or studio apartment in which you want to free up as much space as possible.
Stone window sill-tabletop: manufacturing materials
All countertops made of stone can be divided into two categories: natural and artificial. The first option has excellent characteristics of durability, style and practicality. The second one is inferior in appearance, but the technical indicators are also excellent. The advantages of stone countertops and window sills are:
- resistance to mechanical and chemical damage;
- beautiful view;
- UV resistance, which is especially beneficial when placing the tabletop near a window;
- durability;
- resistance to hot temperatures.
A designer window sill made of natural stone can replace a work surface and serve as a dining area. It is possible to build in a sink here, as well as organize the storage of small items.
A countertop made of natural marble looks solid, suitable for a classic interior and a retro-style kitchen
Placement of window sill-table top
Today you can find many ideas for placing such a worktop under the windows, which should be discussed in detail.
Corner
When placing a kitchen unit near a window opening, it is recommended to combine the table and window sill in the form of a corner variation.
It will look stylish and harmonious.
Combined
At the renovation stage, you will need to think about the placement of furniture and the general appearance of the kitchen. An updated window sill can stylishly and correctly fit into a work island and become an integral part of it.
This is the most common layout option in small apartments.
Built-in
May also be called U-shaped. Standard window sizes are not able to accommodate the whole family at dinner. If the area of the room allows, the table can be continued and made spacious for all household members.
This option is only possible with a certain layout.
Transitional
There is not enough free space in the Khrushchev-era apartment, so it is possible to expand the working or dining area with the help of a window sill-tabletop. It will flow into the kitchen island, thereby creating more space for maneuvering and cooking.
Most often, the window sill-tabletop has a rectangular shape.
Window sill-tabletop on a balcony or loggia
Another modern solution is a window sill-tabletop on the balcony. And here experts offer several variations of arrangement: you can organize a dining area, turning the balcony corner into an interesting gazebo, or you can fill the narrow space with a new tabletop. If there is very little free space on the balcony, the optimal solution would be to install a folding structure.
How to decorate a window sill: tempting ideas for every taste
The window sill in the kitchen is a wonderful field for imagination. The countertop allows you to embody your wildest fantasies and creative ideas.
How to beat a low window sill
It is not necessary to level the surfaces in height. It is recommended to simply use the same materials for the countertops or decorate them with identical accessories. This way, harmony will be achieved in the interior, and the window sill will become a continuation of the working island.
If you are making a wider table in a small kitchen, it makes sense to make smooth corners so that you don’t accidentally bump into them.
Other ideas
The problem of a low set, in comparison with a new window-sill table, can be solved. To do this, they are placed instead of the battery or their height is increased using plinths. Construction teams and designers are able to offer harmonious variations of this method of arrangement.
When choosing a color, you should start from the style of your interior.
This type of furniture set, like a window sill countertop, is very popular among housewives. And this is quite natural, because this way more natural light is achieved and the practicality of all areas and kitchen meters increases.
Materials for countertops with window sill function: how to make the right choice?
With a wide variety of designs, it is very important to consider the quality of the material. The best option for the kitchen would be a moisture-resistant material - MDF or other moisture-resistant coatings. Designs made from modern polymers that perfectly imitate natural stone surfaces - marble, malachite - look noble and impressive.
A more expensive option is a countertop made of natural granite or marble. This product will give the interior a luxurious look.
If you plan to implement this idea in a country house, it would be very appropriate to make a colorful tabletop made of wood.
Kitchen design with window sill-countertop
When the material has already been chosen, it is worth thinking about the overall design of the kitchen. Depending on the purpose of this zone, you can choose a certain finishing style, and also decide where the remaining areas for cooking, storing dishes, and eating food will be located.
