It is often said that windows are natural magnets. People are drawn to them, especially when there is a view. But what if you have a challenge with furniture placement? Is it OK to place furniture in front of a prominent wall of windows? Will it obstruct or detract from a coveted view? The answer is: not if done purposefully. Here are some tips to capture the best view and execute a winning floor plan.
© Design Recipes / Cathy Hobbs
A low sofa allows for an unobstructed view.
![a living room filled with furniture and a large window: A low sofa allows for an unobstructed view.](https://www.msn.com/en-us/finance/realestate/design-recipes-tips-to-get-the-best-view/"default":"load":"default","w":"80","h":"53","src":"//img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/BB1ddTZM.img?h=533&w=799&m=6&q=60&o=f&l=f","size3column":"load":"default","w":"62","h":"42","src":"//img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/BB1ddTZM.img?h=416&w=624&m=6&q=60&o=f&l=f","size2column":"load":"default","w":"62","h":"42","src":"//img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/BB1ddTZM.img?h=416&w=624&m=6&q=60&o=f&l=f")
1.Choose furniture that is lower, as opposed to pieces with a high back.
2. Select furniture that is lighter in color, as it will be less distracting.
3. Use elements that will add visual height such as tall drapery or a vertical mirror.
© Design Recipes / Cathy Hobbs
A long, narrow entertainment area is created by highlighting a wall of windows.
![a living room filled with furniture and a large window: A long, narrow entertainment area is created by highlighting a wall of windows.](https://www.msn.com/en-us/finance/realestate/design-recipes-tips-to-get-the-best-view/"default":"load":"default","w":"80","h":"53","src":"//img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/BB1ddVxR.img?h=533&w=799&m=6&q=60&o=f&l=f","size3column":"load":"default","w":"62","h":"42","src":"//img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/BB1ddVxR.img?h=416&w=624&m=6&q=60&o=f&l=f","size2column":"load":"default","w":"62","h":"42","src":"//img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/BB1ddVxR.img?h=416&w=624&m=6&q=60&o=f&l=f")
4. Create a seating area that uses the view and windows as a visual envelope.
5. Incorporate additional glass elements such as tables to help extend the aspect of transparency.
6. Go minimal. Don’t overcrowd a window area with elements that make the space feel stuffed.
7. Use modular elements such as chaises and ottomans.
8. Incorporate mirrors to help bounce light off a wall of windows.
© TNS
A long sofa helps draw attention to a dramatic window.
![a living room filled with furniture and a large window: A long sofa helps draw attention to a dramatic window.](https://www.msn.com/en-us/finance/realestate/design-recipes-tips-to-get-the-best-view/"default":"load":"default","w":"80","h":"53","src":"//img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/BB1ddLe7.img?h=533&w=799&m=6&q=60&o=f&l=f","size3column":"load":"default","w":"62","h":"42","src":"//img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/BB1ddLe7.img?h=416&w=624&m=6&q=60&o=f&l=f","size2column":"load":"default","w":"62","h":"42","src":"//img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/BB1ddLe7.img?h=416&w=624&m=6&q=60&o=f&l=f")
9. Use a window wall as a natural focal point or anchor to a space.
10. Add a pop of color such as an artwork. Art can help frame a wall of windows while also adding texture, color and interest.
Cathy Hobbs, based in New York City, is an Emmy Award-winning television host and a nationally known interior design and home staging expert with offices in New York City, Boston and Washington, D.C. Contact her at [email protected] or visit her website at www.cathyhobbs.com.
This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Design Recipes: Tips to get the best view