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When Your Bed Has to Go in Front of the Window (and Why It’s Ok)

There’s a funny moment that happens in almost every bedroom design. You’ve sketched out all the possible furniture layouts, measured every wall twice, and somehow...
When Your Bed Has to Go in Front of the Window (and Why It’s Ok)

There’s a funny moment that happens in almost every bedroom design. You’ve sketched out all the possible furniture layouts, measured every wall twice, and somehow the only logical place for the bed... is right in front of the window.

At first, it feels wrong — like breaking some kind of design rule. But the truth is, it’s more common than you’d think, and when done thoughtfully, it can actually become the most beautiful focal point in the room.

Let’s break it down.

1. Start with your headboard

If you’re placing a bed in front of a window, your headboard becomes the hero. The trick is balance and proportion — choose a headboard that complements rather than competes.

  • A low, upholstered headboard works perfectly under sash or mid-height windows.

  • For taller windows, try a simple slatted or rattan frame that allows light to pass through.

  • If your view is worth framing, opt for no headboard at all and let the curtains define the backdrop.

2. Layer your window treatments

The window itself now shares the spotlight, so give it the attention it deserves. Think in layers:

  • Sheers + Curtains: Softens light and creates texture behind the bed.

  • Roman blinds: A tidy option if your bed sits tight against the window frame.

  • Wall-to-wall curtain track: This is the ultimate designer cheat — draw full-length curtains across the entire wall to make the window (and the bed) feel intentionally centred.

3. Let symmetry do the heavy lifting

If your window isn’t perfectly centred, fake it with styling.
Add identical bedside tables, lamps or artwork either side of the bed to visually rebalance the wall.
It’s one of those subtle tricks that makes a space feel calm and “put together” without anyone knowing why.

4. Keep your palette light

Natural light will already be slightly diffused by the bed and window treatments, so lean into it.
Opt for light, breathable fabrics, warm neutral tones, and tactile layers — linen throws, boucle cushions, woven lampshades.

These soften the overall feel and stop the setup from looking “heavy” against the window backdrop.

5. Make it intentional

The golden rule? If it looks like a compromise, it will feel like one.
Style the space as if you chose that placement on purpose — centre the rug, position artwork symmetrically, and make sure your lighting complements the window view.

When done with confidence, a bed in front of a window feels airy, balanced and deliberate — not like a layout afterthought.

Ty & Mor Tip

If you’re still unsure how to pull it together, our Virtual Styling Kit includes a custom moodboard and shopping list tailored to your room’s layout — whether your bed’s under a window or not.

[Enquire about the Styling Kit →]

Final Thought

In interior design, rules are only useful until they stop serving the space.
A bed in front of a window isn’t a design sin — it’s just an opportunity to do something clever with proportion, light, and texture.

And who knows — it might even end up being your favourite view in the house!