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[LAllyR]

I need advice from a professional decorator or anyone else that is good with decorating!

I'm helping my parents pick out a new family room couch. We found one with a matching loveseat that we all like. However, the height of the back is approx. 10" higher than their current couch that comes just above the bottom of the window behind it. The new couch would come 12" up from the bottom of the window.

How bad would it look to have the back of the couch come that far up in front of the window? Is this something that is done? The window faces south so there is a lot of light, especially in the winter. I've attached photos to help you see what I'm referring to.

All the couches that we liked were tall like this one. Our other option may be to buy 2 of the matching recliners (matches the couch/loveseat & also high) instead of the couch (they'd buy the loveseat either way for the wall to the left in the photos) and put both in front of the window on each end with a table between them. This would help open up the window more in the center.

Any input is greatly appreciated!

[Meowingkitty]

I'm not a decorator but as someone who rarely opens their windows or shutters (only occasionally in winter) it wouldn't bother me. I would prefer the couch option vs two chairs. If you like the furniture that's what's important.

[Imaoldhippie]

I am no expert far from it, but if I had that situation I would put 2 chairs with a table inbetween.  

The last several years I have not had a couch at all.  Just comfy chairs.  I have found couches are a pain to place and that is the last place that people sit is on the couch/sofa.  I like it much better and it works for me.

Good luck.

[Lilysmom1]

@LAllyR , my preference would be two chairs.  I would look for swivel chairs so you have the option to look out the window as well.  You could also consider a love seat with a lower back if you want to consider that option.  I would not want a sofa that placed so that it cut off the window.  It will look too big for the room IMO.

If the room is large enough, you could go with a higher back if you pulled the couch away from the wall and leave a walkway behind the couch.  I am thinking from the photo this is not a large room.

A photo of the room would help posters give you better advice.

Good luck.

[Mom2Dogs]

I understand they like what they like but it would not work for me.  I like as much light coming into the house as I can get.  I would keep looking or go with the two chairs and a table.  

If they found something shorter in height I would put a sofa table behind the couch to accessorise a bit...short lamp, faux container of flowers, etc.

I do love that bank of windows!

I have also been looking at couches, so far no luck.

[LizzieInSRQ]

Perhaps a console table betwwen the back of the couch and the window to give some space so that the back is no right up against the window and allow more light in.

[50Mickey]

I would not go with the new couch. It looks strange with that tall back. The couch looks like one with reclining seats? To be honest with you the old couch is a lot more attractive than the new one. Surely there is a nicer looking couch somewhere out there. Unless they really want something that reclines I would look for a couple of swivel chairs or a smaller couch.  

Good luck with this. I know the feeling of making a large purchase an then regretting it. Been there done that.

[kaydee50]

I would not buy a sofa that blocks that much of the window especially with a nice view.  I would rethink your options.

[LTT1]

@LAllyR 

My DD and SIL used to own a home with this "issue"...not sure it's an issue exactly, but it could be depending upon the taste of the owner.

There was an "alcove" type layout on the side wall of their living area.

They placed one sofa in it, well away from the window so the recliner could have enough room to "recline".

Another sofa placed perpendicularly provided more seating.

What always bothered me was that there was a beautiful view out that window that one couldn't enjoy.

If it were my home, I would want the freedom to be able to walk up to the window and look out.

But I have always felt this way about windows and furniture placed in front of them.

[Ok...I guess I need a multi-million dollar home for this!]

So if this is the case with them...the placement of two swivel recliners seems like a better choice, thereby freeing up space to see out the window.

[rockygems123]

@LAllyR 

My couch is about a foot taller than my window sill and I like it, no problem at all with the height. 

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