How to Dress Bay Windows

Your home’s windows play an important role.

As well as providing you with views of the outdoors, they also help natural light enter the home which can create a pleasant and more comfortable atmosphere.

Bay windows are one window type that has grown in popularity in recent years.

These architectural features can transform a room, providing a source of light and offering additional space. However, they can also be a design challenge when it comes to dressing them.

Depending on the look and functionality you are trying to achieve, there are a wide range of different methods to dress bay windows. Whether you want to enhance privacy, control light or simply showcase the window’s natural aesthetics, in this article we’ll take a look at how to dress a bay window giving you some handy tips to do so most effectively.

Read on for more…

What Are Bay Windows?

Bay windows are a type of window that protrudes outward from the main walls of a building, creating a small nook or alcove inside the room. Usually, these windows will consist of three windows that are angled together. The formation will typically include one large, main window that is accompanied by smaller ones on either side.

These windows create a distinctive architectural feature that adds both style and function to a home.

Bay windows have a rich history, with examples dating back to medieval times. They became particularly popular during the Gothic period and examples can be seen in architecture all over the world.

Nowadays, they can be found in a range of styles from traditional Victorian properties to more modern, minimalist homes.

There are also a range of different bay window types. While the number of designs and configurations is almost endless, most abide by one of the following looks:

Canted bay windows: These are the most common type of bay windows you’ll come across. Featuring a flat front window with two angled side windows to form a traditional shape.
Box bay windows: These bay windows are square or rectangular and the side windows are always perpendicular to the central one.
Oriel windows: Similar to traditional bay windows, these types differ as they are normally installed on upper floors and are then supported by brackets rather than extending from the foundation.
Bow windows: These bay windows have a curved shape and may feature more than the standard three window panels. This is to ensure a smooth, rounded appearance.

Benefits Of Bay Windows

As mentioned above, bay windows are a popular architectural feature in properties across the country and beyond. However, beyond the stylish look they provide they also feature a range of other great benefits. This includes:

More natural light

One of the main advantages of bay windows is the increased natural light they bring into a room. They consist of multiple window panes set at angles, and this means they are able to capture light from different directions throughout the day. This makes any room feel brighter and more open, especially in places that tend to be small or dark.

Better views

This protruding design offers wider, more expansive views of the outdoors. This makes them an excellent choice for homes that have scenic surroundings, like parks or local gardens. Plus, the three-dimensional aspect of bay windows is able to create a feeling of being more connected to the outside world.

Additional space

Bay windows create small alcoves or nooks that can then add to the usable space of a room. This extra space can be utilised in a whole host of different ways from cosy seating areas to display spaces for plants, books or decorative items. The extended window sill can also be used as a storage spot or a place to sit and relax.

Aesthetically pleasing

There’s no doubt about it, bay windows look fantastic. They can serve as a focal point of a room, adding a place of architectural interest, character and sophistication. Whether your home is traditional or modern, bay windows can elevate the room’s aesthetic, adding depth and dimension to an otherwise flat wall.

Enhanced ventilation

Since bay windows usually consist of three separate panels, they tend to offer better ventilation. You can open one or more of the side windows to allow for cross-ventilation, making it easier to keep the room fresh and airy.

How To Dress A Bay Window

Dressing bay windows can be more complex than regular flat windows due to their angled structure. However, there are many creative and stylish ways to do so effectively.

Let’s take a look at some of the main ways:

Curtains

Curtains are an obvious choice for most windows.

Versatile and classic, they offer softness, elegance and a variety of styles that can suit any decor or interior look. Some ways to utilise curtains for bay windows include:

Hang a curtain at each window: Having a separate curtain panel on each window in the bay can help to highlight the unique angles of the bay window and give you the flexibility to open or close each panel independently. Using a curtain pole that is able to bend to the shape of the window frame is a great way to ensure a smooth, continuous look.
Hang curtains at the front of the bay: If you prefer a more cohesive look, then consider installing a single curtain pole across the entire bay window. You can then use full-length curtains that span the width of the window which also offer privacy when you need it. We’d recommend opting for lightweight fabrics like linen, light muslin or sheer for a relaxed feel. Alternatively, heavier fabrics provide a more formal style if this is what you prefer.
Use bay window curtain poles: You can use specialised bay window curtain poles that are designed to fit any curves or angles of your windows. This can help the curtains to smoothly hang without leaving any gaps while also diffusing light and ensuring maximum privacy.

Blinds

Blinds are another excellent choice for bay windows, particularly in areas like bedrooms or kitchens where you will want a tailored, clean appearance.

There are two types of blinds that work well with bay windows, Roman blinds and roller blinds.

Roman blinds

Roman blinds fit inside the window recess and can be raised or lowered to control light and privacy. You should make sure these blinds are measured so that they slightly hang over the window frame and so that the whole glass is covered.

A couple of ways Roman blinds can be used include:

Layered Roman blinds: For a layered look, combine Roman blinds with curtains. You can install the blinds within each window recess and add your curtains over the top. This gives you the flexibility in how much light and privacy you relieve while also adding texture and depth to the dressing.
Patterned Roman blinds: As bay windows tend to be the focal point of a room, why not make them stand out more by using patterned or textured Roman blinds? Consider geometric prints, floral patterns or elegant textured fabrics like silk or linen to add an artistic flair without overwhelming the space.

Roller blinds

Roller blinds are more minimalist and tend to be considered a more practical option for bay windows. They take up very little space which makes them a great choice if you have a small room or not lots of space to work with.

Blockout roller blinds: For bedrooms or spaces where darkness is important, blockout roller blinds make for an excellent choice. They fit neatly into a window recess and can be fully lowered to block out light, helping you get a good night’s sleep.
Sheer roller blinds: In contrast, in living areas, you might prefer more light and openness, so consider sheer roller blinds. These allow natural light to filter in while still providing enough to ensure a level of privacy. Pair sheer blinds with curtains for added softness and style.

Shutters

Shutters are a timeless and elegant way to dress a bay window. They offer excellent light control, privacy and insulation while adding a clean, structured look to the space. There are several types of shutters to consider including:

Use cafe-style shutters: To create a casual, informal look these shutters will cover the bottom half of the bay window. This allows natural light to continue to flood in from the top but maintains some privacy at eye level. Cafe-style shutters are particularly advantageous for street-facing rooms or kitchens where privacy is important but you still want to let in light.
Use full shutters: For a more dramatic effect, full-height shutters cover the entire window. These are great if you want to create a uniform, sleek look and are perfect for rooms where you want complete privacy and light control. You can also go for shutters with adjustable louvres to help angle light without having to fully open the shutter.
Use tiered shutters: The most versatile shutter type, this option consists of two sections that operate independently. The top half can be opened for light while keeping the bottom closed for privacy.