Content
Why can't you put a sofa near a window? Science has proven that it's harmful
28.02.2025 18:45
Are you sure that your sofa by the window creates coziness and not stress?
Research in the field of neuroarchitecture and environmental psychology shows that this arrangement of furniture provokes anxiety, chronic fatigue and conflicts in the family.
Top 4 Reasons to Move Your Sofa Away from the Window
1. Visual overload. The window is an area of active light and movement. The brain is forced to process the flickering of cars, people, trees, even if you are not looking straight ahead.
The University of Toronto (2022) found that people in rooms with furniture near windows are 25% more likely to suffer from migraines.
2. Violation of thermal comfort
Drafts and cold from the glass make your body tense up, even if you don't notice it.
Experiment: at -5°C outside, the surface of the sofa cools to +12°C. The back muscles involuntarily contract, causing spasms.
3. The "aquarium" effect
Sitting by the window makes you feel exposed. The subconscious fear of being seen increases cortisol levels.
The journal Environmental Psychology (2023) has proven that 68% of people in such interiors are more likely to close the curtains, increasing depressive states.
Circadian rhythm disruption
Bright light in the morning and evening interferes with melatonin production. Even thick curtains do not block 100% of the light.
Fact: People who sleep in rooms with windows experience 18% shorter deep sleep (National Sleep Foundation).
How does this affect the psyche?
After 2 weeks: irritability, difficulty concentrating.
After 3 months: chronic fatigue, apathy, conflicts due to an “uncomfortable” rest area.
After one year: the risk of developing an anxiety disorder increases by 40% (Journal of Environmental Psychology).
Where to Put a Sofa? 3 Safe Options
1. Against a blank wall with local light. Creates a feeling of security. Add a floor lamp with warm light (2700 K).
2. Opposite the fireplace or TV. Focus on the object, not the outside world. Distance to the screen: 2–3 m.
3. In the center of the room (if space allows). Zones the space without violating privacy. Use a rug and a low table.
If you can’t move the sofa: life hacks
Cover the bottom of the window. Use stained glass film or short curtains to the level of the windowsill.
Add a "shield". Place tall furniture (a shelf, a console) behind the sofa - this will create a barrier from outside noise and views.
Use textiles. Put a thick wool blanket on the sofa - it will reduce the feeling of cold from the window.
