How to Put a Bed in Front of a Window

One of the most important decisions when planning a bedroom layout is where to put the bed. Although it’s not ideal, sometimes putting the bed in front of a window is your only choice—especially in small or awkward spaces.

So, how do you make it look intentional instead of like a last resort? A few design tricks make a world of difference. For guidance, we spoke to architect and designer Matthew Coates. Check out his tips for how to place a bed in front of a window and still create a beautiful bedroom design.

Pros and Cons of Putting a Bed in Front of a Window

The advantage of putting a bed in front of a window is primarily to improve the function of the room. The window location might be the only way to make the layout flow correctly (like if the bed doesn’t fit on any of the other walls), but that doesn’t mean you’re left with a poor design. Coates says other benefits of a bed in front of a window include:

• It can create a dramatic focal point, especially if the window has nice architectural details.
• If done right, it can make the room feel balanced, even in trickier layouts.
• The natural light coming from behind the bed can give the space a soft, airy feel during the day.

However, blocking a window is never the first choice. Here are the drawbacks to this layout, according to Coates:

• Privacy can be a concern, depending on how much exposure the window has.
• It can also make the room feel less cozy, especially if there are drafts or the window lets in too much light early in the morning.
• Without the right styling, it can feel awkward or like the bed is blocking a key design feature.

Tips on How to Put a Bed in Front of a Window

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Consider Your Options

The first tip for placing a bed in front of a window is to consider it as a layout solution. Most people never even consider placing their bed in front of the window because they imagine it will look bad. But by keeping your mind open, you may find this layout is actually the best choice.

“In my experience, placing a bed in front of a window can actually be a great solution when there aren’t many other options,” says Coates. “It also works well when the window offers a nice view or is large enough that it can frame the bed without overwhelming it.”

Avoid Bulky Window Treatments

Window treatments not only offer privacy (essential when your bed is nearby) but also can help visually balance the space to make the bed seem like it belongs there.

“For window treatments, I always recommend going with something that feels light and airy but still offers privacy and control over light,” says Coates. “Roman shades or floor-length curtains can both work really well here. I’d avoid anything too bulky that could compete with the bed and instead go for treatments that complement the overall style of the room.”

Choose the Right Headboard

A headboard that’s too tall will block the window view and limit natural light, while no headboard at all will look sloppy. Coates recommends a low headboard instead and, if you wish, an upholstered headboard, which adds to the coziness factor. “A headboard can help anchor the bed and give it a sense of purpose in front of the window. It creates that visual separation between the window and the bed, making the arrangement feel intentional rather than accidental,” says Coates.

Use Decor for Balance

COURTESY @DESIGNSBYMOLLYHANNAH/INSTAGRAM

Ideally, the window behind the bed should be centered. “I usually recommend this layout when the window is higher or more centered on the wall, so you’re not completely blocking natural light or airflow,” says Coates.

However, if the bed is off-center, you can use decor to correct the unevenness. Hang curtains in a way that tricks the eye so the window looks centered, or use matching artwork on both sides of the window to add balance. You can even hang artwork directly on the window (as seen here from @designsbymollyhannah) for added interest. Matching nightstands and lamps flanking the bed will also help the bed location look centered and deliberate.

Make the Bed a Focal Point

@shannonrussointeriors Designing this room brought JOY to my work life! I have watched this little girl grow up for 4 years and getting to design her new room was so special! She is ALL GIRL so her room had to be a reflection of her favorite things! We fell in love with this incredible floral wallpaper that will be great even as she gets older. We drenched the room is pinks, mauves, purples, and mint green (some of her favorite colors)! And while she says she loves every aspect of her room, she admitted that her favorite part was a single unicorn throw pillow 🤦🏻‍♀️HAHA! Other details from the design include a performance pink and white striped rug, a custom mauve ached bed, and an end of bed purple “sofa”! On the other side of the room we built a reading corner with a pearl canopy and fuzzy bean bag chair, outfitted a desk with a pink chair and linen pin board, and added the coolest mint green bookshelf shaped like a doll house! I hope this sweet girl loves her room for many years to come! #girlsroommakeover #girlsroommakeover #girlsbedroomideas #girlsbedroomdecor #pinkbedroom #pinkbedroomdecor #kidsbedroom @LTK @Pottery Barn Kids @Rejuvenation @Visual Comfort @West Elm @Spoonflower @Joybird Furniture ♬ i just needed a holiday – amber | uk + travel

A window behind the bed can act like a giant headboard, framing the bed to create a focal point. Play up that aspect by choosing bold bedding and matching window treatments. Or create an entire accent wall with wallpaper. By combining the bed, window, and wall into one cohesive focal point, the eye won’t even notice that the bed is in front of a window and instead focus on the dramatic design elements.

About the Experts

• Matthew Coates is a Seattle architect and president of Coates Design. Coates creates pleasing interior spaces and furniture layout designs that complement and seamlessly merge with the built environment. With more than 20 years of experience, he is recognized for his innovative and forward-thinking approach to high-performance architecture and sustainable design.