Consisting of three windows arranged in an arc, bay windows extend outward from your home, creating visual interest outside and a cozy alcove inside. A picture window in the middle is surrounded by two smaller windows, called flankers. Bay windows are typically floor to ceiling.
These windows are often found in kitchens, where they can create a light-filled breakfast nook. They are also popular in living rooms to create a beautiful focal point, a reading nook, or a space for low shelves. Since they add three sides of glass, bay windows let in plenty of light, warming your home and making the room feel larger. Outside, bay windows add architectural interest to your home by breaking up a solid wall. Bay window treatments can add even more options for the look and feel of your home.
Bay Window Treatments: Curtains and Shades
If you want to utilize bay window treatments that treat the bay as a distinct and whole space, consider panel curtains that cover the length of the windows. Though a bit pricier, silk panels are a popular and elegant trend for bay windows.
For bay window treatments that treat each window as a separate piece, you will need to install a separate treatment over each window to hang curtains. This is an attractive and versatile option for bay window treatments because you can vary the appearance of each window, and give each window its own light and privacy control. Roman shades are a popular option; these are are flat and sleek shades that neatly fold when rolled up, providing a simple accent for each individual window.
Often, homeowners choose to section off their bay windows with a curtain. When closed, these curtains can give a breakfast or reading nook a bit of extra privacy, or create an elegant backdrop for a dining table.
Additionally, it can often be difficult to choose curtain rods for your bay windows. Hinged elbow rods that swivel and allow for a continuous rod application, with the rod wrapping around the entire bay window, are often best. Ceiling-mount brackets are also good choices for bay window treatments.
Bay Window Treatments: Window Seats
Many homeowners with bay windows also choose to add a window seat. Many bay windows can be installed alongside these bay window treatments. Designers often suggest pairing this window treatment with a simple pair of Roman shades and plenty of pillows to create a shaded and cozy reading nook.
How to Maintain Your Bay Windows
In order to keep your windows as low-maintenance as possible, consider choosing bay window treatments such as long-lasting vinyl or fiberglass frames. This will eliminate the need to eventually replace rotting wooden frames.
Energy Efficient Bay Window Treatments
Similar to a kind of greenhouse, bay windows can make your rooms very hot in the summer. One simple solution is to use Roman shades to keep your window nook cool. Another of the many energy efficient bay window treatments is low-e glass, which will keep your home cooler in the warmer months. Low-e glass is also one of the most effective bay window treatments for reducing the amount of heat that escapes from your home in the colder months.
