A window sill-countertop in the kitchen is a functional element of the interior. With its help, you can organize an additional dining space or leave space near the window for decoration. Indoor plants look good on the window, but with the organization of an additional kitchen surface here, the room will be noticeably transformed.
A neat window sill with a countertop for a kitchen with a small storage system Source vitrum-novo.ru
Solid worktop with U-shaped window sill in the kitchen Source kakpostroit.su
Traditional rules for converting a window sill into a functional tabletop and recommendations from practitioners
When starting to redevelop the area under the window, do not forget to use several rules:
- According to the standard, heating radiators are installed under the window. It is important that after installing the countertop-window sill, air can circulate freely here. That is, the minimum distance from the edge of the battery is 5-8 cm. If the surface will play the role of a full-fledged table, then it is better to make small round holes in it closer to the edge from the window. This way, warm air will freely pass to the slopes and double-glazed windows. This will protect them from the formation of dampness and mold.
- When trying to organize cabinets under the windowsill, do not forget that their doors should be perforated, ideally lattice. This will prevent disruption of the heating function. Moreover, the inside cannot be heavily loaded with dishes.
- With a countertop and built-in cabinets, the temperature in the kitchen will drop by 2-3 degrees during the heating season. This situation can be circumvented by installing an additional radiator or underfloor heating system. Sometimes the expended temperature is compensated by the operation of household appliances: refrigerator, washing machine, dishwasher. They will transfer some of the heat to the room.
- If you are organizing a work area under the window or even a sink with a countertop, then paint the window slopes with moisture-resistant smooth paint. Splashes that fly during cooking can be easily removed with a damp sponge.
- You should not install the stove on the work surface near the window. This is prohibited by sanitary standards and is inconvenient.
- The material for the countertop must be wear-resistant. After all, it will be subject to vibrations, shocks, moisture and regular temperature changes. For this purpose, try to choose natural stone. It has a seamless surface and is resistant to culinary work.
- The space near the window in the tabletop area should be well lit. Additional light sources are not required if the opening faces the bright side, where nothing blocks the sunlight.
- From time to time (for example, in sunny weather), you can close the window opening with roller blinds or curtains. Just remember that the latter get dirty quickly and are more difficult to wash.
- In the window area, you can narrow the tabletop and make it curved. After all, if the window is far away, the additionally organized space will look impractical.
Plastic surfaces
They are sheets of chipboard covered with a plastic protective layer. The design remains one of the cheapest and most accessible on the market: the variety of shades and textures makes it easy to choose a countertop and fit it into an existing kitchen set. The material is easy to wash and clean with available detergents.
There is a strong temperature difference in the area where the product is installed: in winter, cold air falls down from the window, and hot air rises up from the radiator. Over time, due to temperature changes, the plastic structure becomes deformed and becomes unusable. In addition, plastic is susceptible to mechanical damage: over time, the working area becomes covered with small scratches and chips.
What can be placed in this area
You can organize the space around a window with a tabletop in different ways. The following design ideas are trending now.
Bar counter in the window sill area with a comfortable dining area Source domsmam.com
Wide bar counter and table: 2 in 1
This is a very convenient design, especially for kitchens with an irregularly shaped window. This space will perfectly replace a full-fledged dining area for two or three family members. It is convenient if the structure is located under a long broken glass unit. It is only important to install support posts under it or secure it using special brackets. This window sill can serve as a workspace or space for quick snacks. To highlight the design of the tabletop, choose chairs or stools with seats of the same or similar shade.
Tabletop-window sill, continuing the work table in the kitchen Source roomester.ru
An area that complements the work area
Here, just like near the apron, all kitchen work can be carried out. The main thing is that the quality of the material for the window sill-tabletop does not let you down. Here you can keep some dishes and cutlery essentials (knives, spoons, spatulas). It is also easy to organize a free space for cooking.
Important! If you transform the window sill into a table, the kitchen space visually increases in size. The main thing in such cases is to leave the space near the window untouched (do not place flower pots or stands with dishes). Otherwise, there will be a lack of natural light.
A combined tabletop with a work area, as a kind of relaxation area Source horhuf.ru
Window sill - relaxation area
If the tabletop on the windowsill is made in the form of a high table, and a comfortable chair is placed as a seat, then this place will completely replace the seating area. It will be nice to read a book, watch a movie or spend your leisure time in another way near such a window. When two windows in the kitchen are adjacent and form an angle, then under one you can install a sofa with a perforated chest of drawers, and under the other a table with footrests.
Original mosaic decoration
This facing material looks unusual. The installation process is more accessible than the option with ceramic tiles, since the procedure for finishing the window sill takes less free time. A correctly selected mosaic decorates the room.
The only drawback of such cladding is that there will be many seams on the surface, which can become the main reason for the rapid growth of mold and mildew. Such areas are difficult to clean from contamination. To avoid this problem, you need to use high-quality grout.
The dimensions of the mosaic can be easily adjusted. Before laying, the work surface is prepared in the same way as with tiles. At the final stage, the base should be thoroughly cleaned of dirt and construction dust.
When laying transparent mosaics, the glue should be white. Insulation of the base is carried out before finishing work.
The video shows an original version of finishing a used window sill with homemade mosaics:
How to make a window sill countertop
It’s easy to make a window sill-countertop in the kitchen yourself. The main thing is to prepare everything in advance and use high-quality components: from materials to equipment. You need to install a standard countertop instead of a window sill. Its thickness should be at least 19-38 mm.
On a note! Before proceeding with installation, it is recommended to apply masking tape to the top lining of the tabletop.
Oversized countertop combined with a window sill and a bar counter in a spacious kitchen Source izhevsk.ru
Benefits of cladding
Most contractors who finish window sills with tiles highlight the following advantages:
- Visual. The apartment owner can choose tiles that suit the interior design of the room. The uniqueness of the work depends only on the imagination of the customer.
- Physical characteristics. By decorating the area near the window with ceramics, the apartment owner can avoid frequent cleaning. The tile is not so susceptible to dirt and dust and is easy to clean. In addition, it is able to withstand greater physical stress than conventional plastic.
- Duration of operation. Ceramic tiles benefit significantly when it comes to durability. In addition to the service life, the strength of the entire structure increases several times.
In short, in almost every component, ceramic or tile will be better for the home. If renovations in the house are being done “for yourself,” then it is recommended to opt for higher quality materials.
Step-by-step instruction
To correctly install the countertop, follow the given algorithm:
- Take the dimensions of the window sill, then measure them on the tabletop on one side, leaving overhangs. They will go onto the wall when the slopes end. Carry out similar actions on the opposite end of the surface.
- Using an electric jigsaw, cut out the design according to the parameters. If necessary, cut out a small layer of plaster above the window sill so as not to cut further into the tabletop. You can do it manually with a hatchet. But, it is better to use a drill or hammer drill.
- Place the material in place of the window sill and level it using a building level. If the slope seems too great, place cut pieces of brick or plaster logs, or wooden blocks under the tabletop.
- Fill all the cracks that are between the countertop and the wall with polyurethane foam. Check the surface level periodically, as foam tends to “push out” the material.
- Cut off the hardened remains of the polyurethane foam and fill all the holes. Ideally, you should have a flat wall under the window. If the radiator was removed before installation, it can be installed immediately after finishing the wall under the countertop.
Tabletop for a kitchen window sill made of combined materials Source akril-market.ru
Peculiarities
A window sill can perform several functions simultaneously. In a small kitchen, this is additional useful space, which is used for arranging indoor plants, cooking, placing dishes and other household appliances. Finishing using tiles is a practical, stylish and durable solution. Due to its special performance properties, this finishing material is ideal for tiling kitchens and bathrooms. The material is not afraid of water, resistant to stress and dirt.
Cladding will help increase the strength of the structure. Compared to a standard plastic product, the tiles do not lose their beauty throughout their entire service life (plastic turns yellow and gets dirty quickly). A tile window sill benefits from an aesthetic point of view and functionality. This option will harmoniously fit into various stylistic directions.
Material selection
When choosing raw materials for arranging the area near the window sill, you need to focus not only on its attractive appearance, but also on the quality of workmanship. For the kitchen it is best to choose the following materials:
- Natural wood. Hardwood structures are ideal. They are not affected by moisture and last longer with constant contact with piercing and cutting cutlery. But in order for this material to remain attractive for a long time, it is opened with varnish.
- MDF. These are raw materials made from wood and plastic particles. Ideal for kitchen worktops. If used improperly, it quickly deteriorates. Over time, it loses its protective layer due to abrasions, vibrations and shocks.
- Chipboard. The material is slabs made from reliably compressed lumber. It is natural, despite the presence of plastic elements. Does not emit any unpleasant odor or toxins.
- Plastic. This is a fragile material. Therefore, it is ideal for arranging a decorative tabletop. Light accessories and thematic paraphernalia are placed on such surfaces. It is prohibited to place pots of flowers and dishes on a plastic tabletop.
- Acrylic. An artificial stone that has proven itself well. It is considered budget-friendly and has a wide range of colors. It is lightweight and performs well even with prolonged exposure to moisture and sunlight.
- Granite or marble. These are natural stones that have an attractive appearance. Such raw materials are very expensive, but last for several decades. Not subject to mechanical influence.
On a note! Materials made from wood species lend themselves well to restoration, unlike plastic, MDF or laminated chipboard coatings.
Stylistic and color solutions
The countertop should be in harmony with the rest of the interior, match it in color and style. In traditional classics, wooden, stone surfaces, as well as their imitations, will look great. The tree will fit perfectly into a loft, Provence or country style. In a loft, a concrete or metal top will look just as organic. Countertops made of steel, acrylic stone, agglomerate or wood are ideally integrated into modern interiors.
When choosing a shade, you need to focus on the colors of the facades, aprons, dining table tops, household appliances, doors, floor and wall finishes. Dark countertops look luxurious and presentable. Unfortunately, this effect lasts only until the first drops of water and even the smallest stains hit the surface. All dirt becomes very noticeable against a dark, uniform background. It is better to choose a product that has white and colored veins, inclusions, or even pay attention to light-colored models. Dark coatings have to be cleaned twice as often as light ones.
Ways to place a countertop in the kitchen near the window
Each owner chooses for himself the option of installing a countertop-window sill. There are several alternatives that are equally suitable for small and large spaces.
Tabletop-window sill extending from the surface of the kitchen furniture Source kakpostroit.su
Corner countertop in a small kitchen with transition to furniture Source kakpostroit.su
Transitional
Perfect for expanding your work space. For this purpose, one tabletop is selected for the floor set and for the window sill. Usually a seamless coating model is made to order.
Tabletop window sill in a corner format with a niche for a heating radiator Source modus12.ru
Corner
To make the area under the window look complete and harmonious, it is recommended to install the tabletop in the form of a corner structure. But for this purpose a solid surface may also be required.
Tabletop with household appliances under the window, where there is no heating radiator Source group-stone.ru
Window sill-countertop for the kitchen without connection to furniture Source kitchenguide.su
Independent
This option is best suited for spacious kitchens. But in order to emphasize the compliance of the window sill with the overall design of the room, you can choose a material that is close in color to the chairs or the facade of the kitchen furniture.
U-shaped tabletop with window sill grip Source remontnik.ru
U-shaped
It is also called built-in. Suitable for a small kitchen area. Under the countertop, you can organize cabinets around the entire perimeter or create a large-format dining area. You can also use hanging furniture to store dishes.
Smooth countertop in the kitchen from the window sill Source 5653328.ru
Tabletop-window sill for a large panoramic window Source group-stone.ru
Semicircular or figured
More suitable for modern small kitchen designs. To do this, use a solid countertop of irregular shape. Most of it protrudes above the floor. Additionally reinforced with a stand or leg. A kind of bar counter is formed.
Table-window sill for the kitchen with a perforated surface Source Yandex.Collections
Stone
The most preferred option. Granite and marble slabs are very expensive, and agglomerate is sometimes more expensive than natural stone. The stone countertop is durable and resistant to temperature changes, mechanical damage and high humidity. Heavy products will require the installation of additional supports.
Granite or marble structures are installed only in large rooms; they are too bulky for small kitchens. Other disadvantages of stone slabs include: stone cannot be restored; it is impossible to make a solid tabletop longer than 2.5 m.
Disadvantages of a table top-window sill
A window sill table that is installed in the kitchen has several significant disadvantages. If they are not taken into account in a timely manner, then the equipped place will not bring any benefit:
- Self-installation is not for everyone. This requires knowledge in the field of construction.
- There is a high risk of getting a fake. If you chose a natural stone, but it turned out to be just an imitation.
- Moisture can get into the cracks between the countertop and the glass unit, and this is a breeding ground for fungus and bacteria.
- If the tabletop is damaged, it must be completely replaced; local restoration will not be rational.
- If the level of the window sill and the height of the floor unit do not match, you have to look for ideas on how to get around this problem.
The listed disadvantages are not worth giving up a beautiful design solution for your kitchen. The table top-window sill will emphasize modernity and concentrate attention.
Window sill with built-in sink and continuing countertop Source dizainkyhni.com
Masonry technology
There are two options: along the entire window and perpendicularly. The choice should be based on minimizing the resulting trimming of parts. To adjust the die, you can use a classic glass cutter.
The location of the cut should be marked in advance using a marker. The trim is placed on a flat and stable base in order to trim along the marked points. During the procedure you need to press hard on the material.
It is difficult to achieve a high-quality result without a rubber hammer. Using this tool, carefully tap the ceramic product on the back side at the site of the intended cut. If such a hammer is not at hand, then you can use the handle of a spatula, which is first wrapped in a towel or thick cloth.
The required fragment is broken off with a sharp, confident movement. If the master has the necessary skill, then cutting the ceramics can be done with a grinder. This electric tool saves a lot of effort and time.
Rational approach
Answers on questions
Before installation, anyone who does it themselves may have questions. Below are the answers to them.
What size are the projections on the sides of the tabletop from the slopes?
According to the standard - 3 - 7 cm. The gap is usually adjusted to the size of the walls from the window. The longer the surface, the shorter the projections should be.
How much should the countertop-window sill protrude?
There are no strict requirements for this. It all depends on the preferences of the owner of the house. Usually, for personal comfort, a protrusion of 40-60 cm is sufficient. If the protrusion is too large, then additional supports are installed. But the countertop must cover the radiator. This is the main rule.
What should be the length and width of the tabletop?
By standard standards, the length is 3 m and the width is at least 600 mm. If the window is not standard, then the furniture production can order a product for individual parameters.
Tabletop window sill below the height of the kitchen furniture Source roomester.ru
Tabletop-window sill for the kitchen with an area for storing small items Source roomester.ru
Shape and size
The width of the standard tabletop is 60 cm. This top is quite suitable for decorating a window sill. If space allows, you can order a wider product. This will make it possible to arrange deep cabinets for built-in furniture or equip a comfortable dining area, leaving enough legroom.
Particular attention should be paid to the decorative processing of the end edges. They can be rounded, decorated with milling or left straight. The complexity of the design of the ends will certainly affect the price of the product. It is advisable to equip the tabletop with sides or simply close the gap between the wall and the work surface with corners. They will prevent water and dirt from getting behind the lower housings.
You can completely abandon the corners if you start laying out the apron after installing the headset. Then the tile or glass will rest on the countertop and a gap will not form.
What other nuances need to be taken into account?
Once you have figured out the main points, you need to take care of the nuances. The quality of the installation may depend on them:
- A serious difference between the furniture tabletop and the window sill can be hidden using the same material with which the apron is lined.
- When the window sill is lower than the level of the furniture countertop in the kitchen, then its height is increased and the window frame is reduced. This option is only available for private homes.
- You can install a deep sink in the windowsill. This method of organization is considered more expensive. With this approach, make sure that at least one window sash will open unhindered. The mixer should not interfere with it.
- If you are setting up a work area in the kitchen, then the window sill from the countertop can be expanded behind the slopes. To do this, you can use homemade supports made of foam blocks. You just need to lay out masonry from them along the edges of the tabletop. There will be a deep niche inside. There will be enough space for one or two chairs.
On a note! A tabletop by the window can act as a seat. This design will require three sheets of material. The finished attribute is decorated with decorative pillows, and decor, herbarium or amulets are placed on the windowsill itself.
Scope of application
Most often, a tile window sill is made in houses made of brick, ceramic concrete, foam concrete or cinder blocks. In these houses, the window sill, as a rule, has already been filled or a kind of blank has been made that will serve as its base. It must be thoroughly cleaned of dust and primed to increase the adhesion of the material to the base. If this is not done, the tiles may fly off within a few months.
If there is already a window sill, but you need to make a new cladding, you must first remove the old one. Next, the surface of the window sill is carefully leveled, all dents and chips are filled with putty. In order for the tiles to last for many years, you need to purchase putty, primer and glue from one manufacturer in stores.
