If you like the look of bay windows but are not sure how to incorporate them into your home, here are nine great ideas for using these gorgeous windows to make your home feel more inviting.
1. Consider Arched Bay Windows
An arched bay window can make a big statement in any room, and it looks particularly good in a living room with a second arched window on a neighboring wall. This allows lots of natural light to stream into the room and provides excellent views of the outdoors.
Install window treatments at the lower half of the windows that can be closed in the afternoon when the sunlight is too strong and in the evening for privacy.
2. Add Seats To Your Bay Windows
Bay windows are very inviting, so it is hard to go wrong by installing a seat into a bay window with a bumpout. This will work in any room in your home that happens to have a bay window.
For example, in a living room, an upholstered window seat with plush cushions is the ideal place to curl up with a good book while enjoying nature on lazy afternoons. In dining areas, it can provide additional seating when placed near the dining table, allowing you to occupy less floor space with dining chairs.
3. Don’t Shy Away From Bay Windows In The Bathroom
Do not let privacy concerns stop you from installing a bay window in the bathroom. Sunlight streaming through bay windows over a bathtub creates a visually stunning effect and can open up a bathroom that is on the smaller side.
For bathrooms, it is best to choose bay windows that open. Not only does this allow steam to escape after a hot shower, but it also enables the scent of your garden to fill the bathroom. Airy drapery can be installed along the bay window to give the bathroom some privacy without sacrificing the potential for natural light.
4. Consider Floor-to-Ceiling Bay Windows
A floor-to-ceiling bay window adds grandeur to your living room, particularly when paired with furniture such as plush upholstered sofas and dramatic light fixtures.
The size of these windows means there is incredible potential for natural light to enter the room and balance out some of the heavier and more ornate décor in the room, but sheer drapes can help to filter the sunlight during times of day when it is particularly bright.
5. Add Transoms to Your Bay Windows to Extend Them
Consider topping your bay windows with transoms featuring the same pane pattern in the windows below. This helps to extend the larger windows and bring them closer to the ceiling line, making the room feel larger and flooding the area with morning light, making it particularly suitable for breakfast nooks.
6. Use Drapes In Bay Windows To Make A Statement
Although it is common to use sheer drapery to line bay windows to filter sunlight, you might also consider bolder or patterned window treatments that complement the living space without overshadowing the window’s architecture.
Because bay windows are so large, carefully chosen drapery gives you a chance to hang dramatic drapes to set the tone of the room, or you can choose something more subtle to tie the room together or add a pop of color to an otherwise conservatively decorated space.
7. Place Bay Windows In Rooms With Great Views
Any rooms in your home that have an excellent view outside are good candidates for bay windows. Bay windows without panes will always afford a greater view of what lies beyond the walls of your house than other types of windows, and they are a great way of making your home feel more connected with the great outdoors.
Whether you are fortunate enough to live on the water or have a gorgeous garden in your yard or beautiful trees outside, bay windows can give your rooms a stunning focal point.
8. Place A Bay Window Above The Kitchen Sink
Bay windows in kitchens are often limited to the eating area, but a small bay window can work surprisingly well above the kitchen sink. In addition to lending additional display space and some convenient storage, it gives you an excellent view to enjoy while doing the dishes. It is also a great place for sun-loving plants and cooking herbs to thrive.
9. Add Architectural Interest To A Bedroom With Bay Windows
Another great place to incorporate a bay window is in the bedroom. A shallow bay window on one end of the room adds some architectural interest; consider making the ceiling line flat instead of pitched for a cozier feel. This works just as well in a master bedroom as in a child’s room.
Contact The Bay Window Installation Professionals At Adelphia Exteriors
Whether you want to add beauty to new construction or give outdated windows in your home an upgrade, our window replacement contractors are able to get the job done efficiently throughout the Northern Virginia area. Reach out to Adelphia Exteriors for all of your window replacement and installation needs by calling (703) 386-7357 or by scheduling a free estimate online.