Ideas for bay window dressing
10 ways to dress bays with blinds, curtains and shutters |
(Image credit: Future)
Are you looking for bay window ideas? Bay windows are beautiful architectural features which bring huge amounts of light into the home.
If you're lucky enough to have a bay window then be sure to give it the finishing touch it deserves with a beautiful made-to-measure window dressing. Curtains, blinds or shutters can all be fitted to a bay window and are a brilliant way to control the light levels and privacy of a room while showcasing the architectural character of your property.
Projecting outwardly from a building, bay windows are formed of multiple glazed frames which are either angled or at right angles to each other, which is also known as a box bay window. While the projecting design brings additional light into the room, finding the right window treatment ideas for them can prove a challenge compared to regular windows. We've rounded up an array of ideas for dressing your windows along with tips from the experts to help get you inspired.
Bay window ideas – how to dress bays with blinds, curtains and shutters
Choosing bay window ideas can be daunting as there are so many different options, each with their own uses and benefits. From fabric solutions such as classic curtain ideas and Roman blinds, to slatted venetian blinds and shutters made from wood or composite, the selection is dazzling and it can be hard to know where to start.
Bay window treatments are a brilliant way of controlling the natural light within your home as well as enhancing privacy and bringing an additional layer of insulation, but they can also be a beautiful design feature within a room. Before deciding which style is right for your space it's a good idea to examine how you use the space and what purpose you need your window treatments to fulfil.
1. Bring classic elegance with full length curtains
(Image credit: Future)
If you’re looking for bay window ideas for a traditional dining room you can’t go wrong with floor-to-ceiling drapes.
A brilliant choice for your dining room curtain ideas, window dressings will bring timeless elegance to a space and, with so many luxurious textures and decorative prints to choose from, can offer the opportunity to wow dinner guests. This golden velvet brings a glamorous feel to special occasions while the pelmet enhances the traditional formal feel and obscures the gathered top.
‘A pelmet, also known as a cornice board, is a box frame used to conceal the top of curtains, and is commonly found in classic interiors. Pelmets can be made by using foam core or plywood to create a structure which can either be painted a similar tone to walls, or upholstered in fabric to match the curtains,’ explains interiors writer Yvette Murrell for Homes & Gardens.
‘Though largely decorative, they also offer insulation around windows, which is why they are popular in older buildings such as this Kensington house. Here, interior designer Christiana Syrris, then at Studio Indigo, used a mustard hue both on the walls and the window dressing.
This provides a modern twist while also adding depth and interest within a singular color palette.'
2. Preserve authentic wood shutters
(Image credit: Future / Rachel Smith)
If you’re lucky enough to have a period property with bay windows complete with their beautiful original wooden shutters – and window seat – consider showcasing them as part of your interior design. ‘Original shutters are prized features of period homes and should be preserved and celebrated wherever possible,’ advises Melanie Griffiths, editor of Period Living magazine.
3. Bring warmth and color with Roman blinds
(Image credit: Future)
When it comes to how to measure for curtains and how to hang curtains, fret not. An expert can do all the measuring for you. Made-to-measure fabric Roman blinds fitted to each frame are a beautiful bay window idea. Not only do they offer control over lighting, they are a good way to bring color and warmth to large, neutral living rooms which can have a tendency to feel cold.
Roman blinds can also be lined with a blackout lining to block out the light and provide an additional layer of insulation.
Alternatively, ‘why not consider installing a combination of blinds and curtains in your bay window?’ Says Louise Wicksteed, design director of Sims Hilditch Interior Design . 'This provides an additional layer of insulation while simultaneously adding an element of elegance to your interior.’
A common query when buying blinds for bay windows is whether blinds should go inside or outside the window frame. Louise suggests that, ‘if you are installing a blind to cover a large window with a seat built in (as seen here), the blind might extend beyond the frame.’
4. Create a focal point with color-blocking
(Image credit: Thomas Sanderson)
Pairing Roman blinds with curtains brings extra flexibility over light levels as well as additional insulation, but can also make a beautiful feature in a living room as it offers the opportunity to play with exciting color combinations.
For a living room curtain idea with wow-factor try teaming rust-colored curtains, which will provide a warming block of color after dark, with contrasting peacock blinds.
‘Suspended below a specially designed pole or track, curtains with a wave heading make a sleek impression with their structured shape and floating appearance,’ says interiors journalist Sarah Warwick, Period Living magazine. ‘They also stack tidily so won’t impede views or daylight.’
5. Make a feature of original shutters
(Image credit: Future / Damian Russell )
Historically most wooden shutters would have been unpainted, so if you have original shutters and are looking for an authentic feel, then preserve the natural wood finish. Alternatively, if your original shutters have already been painted, try refreshing them in contrasting color to the walls for a playful, contemporary twist.
6. Add the finishing touch to a colorful living room
(Image credit: Future)
Guaranteed to bring a cozy feel when drawn, full length curtains are a brilliant bay window idea for living rooms.
While decorative fabrics will make a statement, if you have a colorful interior filled with pattern and decorative interest, then it may be effective to balance the look with curtains in a soft pastel shade, as this scheme highlights.
'In terms of colors and pattern, this is really a case of personal preference, however, I always opt for neutral curtains if there's a lot of color and pattern in the room already,' says Emma Deterding, founder and creative director, Kelling Designs . 'Not only does this help to balance the scheme, but if you have spectacular views out the window, then this will allow them to flow into the room making the room feel a lot larger.'
If your living room bay window is overlooked or positioned on a street then consider pairing full length curtains with cafe-style sheer curtains to help screen the room from view during the day.
7. Inject personality with pattern
(Image credit: Vanessa Arbuthnott)
Pairing curtains and blinds in decorative prints is a brilliant way to bring a playful feel and decorative interest to a bedroom.
Covering the headboard in the same design as the blinds will not only make a beautiful statement, it will also help create a cohesive, unified look.
If creating a bedroom with a restful feel is a priority, it's important to choose bedroom curtain ideas in prints which will not overpower the space – try opting for small repeat, abstract prints such as Vanessa Arbuthnott's Sepals and Petals design (on blind) and Pretty Maids design (on curtains). Introducing cushions and bedspreads in larger scale prints in co-ordinating colors will help create a dynamic, layered look.
8. Control light levels with plantation shutters
(Image credit: Future / Jan Baldwin)
Plantation shutters with adjustable slats or 'louvres' give control and flexibility over light levels and privacy which is useful for street-facing windows. Available in cafe-style, tier-on-tier, or full height, plantation shutters also bring a sleek, streamlined look to interiors making them a preferable option to curtains if you're looking to create a more contemporary feel.
They also have the benefit of being easy to wipe clean.
9. Create a country feel with a classic stripe
(Image credit: Vanessa Arbuthnott)
If you have a country home full of beautiful wood and natural stone, consider fitting a window blind in an earthy, textural linen which will beautifully complement the patina of the natural materials and really make them sing. A timeless stripe, Vanessa Arbnuthnott’s French Ticking in Mushroom/Raspberry brings a subtle hint of pattern to this calm corner while also giving a gentle nod to the weatherboarded walls of this country living room.
10. Maximize light with window film
(Image credit: Future / Anna Stathaki)
Are you looking to maximize light in a bathroom without compromising on privacy? A combination of sheer blinds and frosted window film could be the solution. Available from companies such as Purlfrost , frosted window film applied to the lower lights of a sash window will obscure the view without blocking any light making for bright blissful bathing environment.
Fitting sheer blinds with a gentle gather will allow views to still be enjoyed but will also bring an air of romance to the space, making them a great traditional bathroom idea.
What is the best way to dress a bay window?
The best way to dress a bay window will depend on may factors including the type of room and how you use it, as well as what look you and feel you want to create.
If you are looking for window treatment ideas for a bedroom then controlling light levels may be the top priority – for ultimate control you may want to team blackout blinds with sheer blinds which will block the early morning sun throughout the summer months yet also bring light and privacy throughout the day.
Dressings such as window blind ideas and curtains ideas are brilliant choices for bedrooms, living rooms and dining rooms as they control light levels while allowing you to inject personality, pattern and color through beautiful fabrics.
'Curtains are an opportunity to bring a layer of softness and coziness to every room.
You can introduce color and pattern on a large scale, and from which you can choose a complementary paint color for the walls and co-ordinating fabrics for other upholstery in the scheme,' explains Penny Morrison . 'I like to use loose floaty linens for a relaxed look and for more formal settings I use silks and velvets. Pay attention to the curtain headings for the look you are trying to create and whether you are hanging the curtains on a pole or on tracks, and whether you are going to have a pelmet or not.'
Alternatively, when it comes to moist areas such as kitchens and bathrooms venetian blinds or shutters made from water resistant materials may be preferable as they are each to clean and will resist damage from splashes, unlike fabric solutions, see our kitchen bay window ideas for further inspiration.
With adjustable slats, plantation shutters can be brilliant solutions for street facing windows, as Chrissie Harper, customer experience manager at California Shutters explains.
'Tier-on-tier shutters are a stylish addition to larger bay windows, making them great for living rooms and bedroom bays, especially if they are front-facing rooms overlooked by neighbors or a busy sidewalk. The bottom tier will offer you privacy when getting changed, or watching TV, without having to shut out light completely.'
What looks good on a bay window?
All sorts of treatments can be fitted to a bay window including curtains, blinds and shutters, but what looks good on your bay window is ultimately a matter of personal taste. If you're looking to make a feature of your bay window then curtains and fabric Roman blinds are a brilliant way of injecting colour and pattern. Fabric treatments will also bring warmth and softness, making them suitable for bedrooms and living rooms, plus they work well in traditional schemes
For a more contemporary look made-to-measure shutters will give a sleek, streamlined finishing touch.
As such large, prized architectural features how you dress a bay window can have a big impact of the look and feel of a room, so if you are embarking on an interior redesign you may want to consider the bay window as a starting point.
'I begin designing a room around a bay window if it has one, it’s important to include the space in the layout of the room so that it’s not wasted.' says interior designer Penny Morrison. 'A bay window can create a cosy space either for an armchair and lamp, a table or even with banquette seating for a dining table in. It’s just important not to block too much light. It’s useful to know how you are going to dress the bay window from the start, whether that’s with blinds or curtains.'
Pippa is Content Editor on Homes & Gardens online contributing to Period Living and Country Homes & Interiors print issues. A graduate of Art History and formerly Style Editor at Period Living, she is passionate about architecture, creating decorating content, interior styling and writing about craft and historic homes. She enjoys searching out beautiful images and the latest trends to share with the Homes & Gardens audience. A keen gardener, when she’s not writing you’ll find her growing flowers on her village allotment for styling projects.
Bay window ideas: ways to dress bays with blinds, curtains and shutters
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By submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.Bay windows are a beautiful feature in any room, but dressing them can be tricky business. While the architectural detail is an attractive addition to add interest for any room it presents an awkward shape for window treatments – but with the right know-how bay windows can be easy to dress with curtain ideas, blinds and shutters.
'If you’re lucky enough to have a beautiful bay window in your home, you’ll want to make the most of it by thinking carefully about the window dressing' advises Debbie Leigh, design manager at ILIV.co.uk.
'There are many different types of bay windows, so I always advise homeowners to opt for a bespoke window covering to give a professional look.
Made to measure window dressings are precisely crafted to fit every nook and cranny, which is a must when it comes to bay windows.'
Bay window ideas
1. Add Roman blinds for perfect cover
(Image credit: Future PLC/ Katie Lee)
Choose a Roman blind for each bay window dressing, and measure them to hang slightly over the frame of the window to ensure the entire glass pane is covered and there are no gaps at the edges of the window blind idea.
Go for a large scale pattern for the blinds to create impact and team with a plain curtain in a toning colour. Roll-up Roman blinds are a simple solution for bay windows, while the curtains can either add extra privacy and warmth, or can simply be a decorative addition, framing the window for a smart finish and without the need to be drawn.
(Image credit: Future PLC/ Rachael Smith)
For an informal effect, hang shutters at the bottom half of the bay window, allowing light through the top half, but also creating privacy – especially important in a bedroom.
Hem the panels of fabric and hang them on a flexible net curtain wire, so they can be gathered at the side if you need more light.
The overall look is laid back yet contemporary, and bring the look together with other natural elements around the room, like linen cushions and pale furniture.
Interior designer reveals what not to do when choosing curtains – from measuring to styling, for more inspiration.
3. Hang a curtain at each window
(Image credit: Future PLC/ Tim Young)
Curtain ideas for bay windows can be expensive and tricky to fit around curves and bends, so fitting a separate pole at each window is a good option. Hang a pair of curtains at the middle window and then frame each side with another curtain. This will create an extremely sophisticated look, bringing the focus to the bay.
Tie back hooks fitted high up will allow the curtains to be gathered in an attractive swag of fabric. Finish the look with a narrow pelmet around the top of the window in a dark fabric to draw the eye upwards and create a sense of space.
4. Hang curtains across the front of the bay
(Image credit: Future PLC/ Rachael Smith)
For a simply, fuss-free look, hang a thin wire rail across the front of the bay window and use a light muslin or linen curtain to create privacy without blocking out the light. For a savvy bedroom curtain ideas you could use a black out material, to ensure total darkness for a better night's sleep.
In a living room if you have a desk area or storage in the bay window space that you want to hide, then this curtain can act as the ideal screen, keeping the rest of the room clutter-free.
5. Combine panels with curtains
(Image credit: Future PLC)
Lightly patterned fabric screens are a neat way of diffusing light and creating privacy at a bay window. Fit the screens on a sliding rail, which is designed to fit around the curves of the bay. Combine with a curtain at each side. These curtains only need to be drawn at the sides of the bay, and can be fitted onto a simply rail, fitted at the top of each side window.
Choose a bolder patterned fabric for the side curtains to create a striking surround around the bay.
6. Filter out the light with full shutters
(Image credit: Future PLC/ Chris Nook)
Window shutter ideas are a highly effective way to entirely cover a window, with precision. And practical, providing light, privacy and reducing noise – as well as being low-maintenance, requiring nothing more than a frequent dusting to keep them looking their best.
When used to dress bay windows the frames are made to fit each panel of glass perfectly, meaning maximum light control.
7. Add panels of pattern
(Image credit: Future PLC/ Simon Whitmore)
Use your statement window layout even more captivating by dressing the panes with bold pattern. Simple drop down blinds can add decorative pattern and an accent colour to enhance the decor.
Try to find a pattern that brings in the colours you want to use in the scheme to ensure you don't end up with a clash or a two-dimensional look.
A good rich pattern can be used as the mediator, helping to define the palette, which can then be integrated into cushions or upholstery.
8. Opt for solid shutters for total privacy
(Image credit: Future PLC/ David Parmiter)
Solid shutters are perfect for period properties, especially in bedrooms, creating a barrier against noise and the elements. Don't be afraid to go for a coloured option that will highlight any details on the shutter, especially if the rest of the scheme is pared back.
9. Incorporate a matching window seat
(Image credit: Future PLC/ David Mereweather)
Make the most of a bay window layout by installing a window seat idea, using the otherwise unused space below the window to allow for extra seating. Matching the fabrics for the window treatment to the seat cushions helps to make the window feel well-dressed as a whole.
The accent colour and pattern draws attention to the window, making it a feature to behold.
This idea is especially good in a small room, to draw the eye to the view beyond to welcome a sense of airiness.
10. Enhance wooden frames with Venetian blinds
(Image credit: Future PLC/ Robert Sanderson)
To celebrate the shape of a bay window allow the frames to be the hero of you chosen window treatment. For these smart wooden framed windows the perfect pairing to blend seamlessly is slatted wooden Venetian blinds. A cheaper option but familiar to shutters, venetian blinds offer a substantial material for dressing windows.
The concertina design allows for freedom of movement. Meaning the blinds can be tilted, raised or lowered to adjust the level of light and privacy for any room.
What is the best way to dress a bay window?
What is considered the best way to dress a bay window? 'The decision on the window dressing itself can depend on a number of factors such as privacy and the overall look you wish to create' explains Debbie Leigh, design manager at ILIV .
'If, for example, you are wanting to let in as much light as possible it is worth considering sheer blinds which will allow a soft flow of natural light into your room – creating a lovely relaxing ambience. On the other hand, good quality, lined curtains are worth the investment – they are suitable all year-round , offering temperature control and privacy.'
'Perhaps the most popular bay window dressing is the combination of roman blinds with curtains' Debbie reveals. ' This not only provides the best of both worlds but also looks very luxurious. A roman blind in each window offers flexibility as each blind can be set at varying heights to create an interesting look as well as providing privacy when needed.'
'If you have the room either side of your bay window, then full-length curtains will create a cosy, comfortable and inviting feel. Not only do they provide complete privacy, choosing a quality thick fabric will provide an extra layer of insulation, as well as creating a sense of luxury.
'
Bay window decoration - amazing ideas in a selection of photos
A bay window is a kind of niche, made in the form of an oval or half a polygon, with glazing around the entire perimeter. Most often, such an architectural technique is found in country cottages, being a kind of facade decoration and giving uniqueness to the interior.
In recent years, similar projections have been made in apartment buildings.
Along with the original appearance, such a structure also has a number of useful qualities:
- An increase in living space, which is most pleasing in rooms with a small area.
- Daylight more effectively penetrates into the room.
- Adds style and solemnity to the interior.
- Makes the exterior more attractive.
- Additional storage space available.
How the place will be used depends on where it is located. For example, in the kitchen it can be a dining area, and in the living room it can be an area for work or relaxation.
But regardless of the option, the presence of such an architectural refinement guarantees an abundance of natural light in the area where it is located.
In addition, it will be possible to admire the landscape from the windows. Next, various design options for niches in the house will be presented, studying which you can figure out how to equip the same ledge in your home.
Bay window in the bedroom
If the window polyhedron is in the sleeping room, there is a good reason to create a comfortable place for leisure on an impromptu bench. To do this, you just need to put a couple of pillows or buy a special mattress, or just cover this place with a fluffy blanket.
If you make the window sill foldable, then an additional niche will appear, which is well suited for storing various linen or bulky clothes. In case of sufficient area, the arrangement of the relief ledge can be completed with a magazine stand or chair placed there.
Niche in the living room
If the original window ended up in the reception room, then it would be a good idea to make an additional sofa out of it.
If you put a tea table nearby, then a comfortable place to relax will appear.
You can also put a couple of armchairs near the bay window - the effect will be the same as with the previous idea. For decor, it is best to use beautiful curtains. In general, it is advisable not to force this place, especially when the view from the windows pleases the eye.
Arranging a ledge in the kitchen and dining room
The first thing that comes to mind in this state of affairs is the arrangement of a small garden. It will decorate the room, and the flowers themselves will enjoy abundant light. If you make a podium nearby, then a good dining area will come out.
Very often the window niche has an oval or multifaceted shape, then a round table with chairs placed around it will do. And in order for the place to look harmonious, you can make a kind of sofa along the wall instead of stools.
In addition, the bay window can also become a working area. It is enough to put a laptop there or place accessories for needlework and you can do your favorite hobby without being distracted from cooking.
Impromptu office
Organization of the working area is ideal for any room in the house. In this case, the window sill will play the role of the table, and various shelves and drawers for office supplies will conveniently fit under it. Place a computer and a comfortable chair in the center of the structure. Such a workplace will be well lit throughout the day.
Selecting curtains
What the window will be decorated with plays an important role, especially when it is irregular in shape. In this case, you should carefully approach the selection of cornices and curtains.
Profile curtains are most often chosen for bay windows because of their ability to adapt to irregular shapes. In addition to them, sculptural cornices with a hinge-type adapter will also look good.
Basically, different types of curtains are used when decorating a niche. For example, curtains and Roman. And for decoration use original pickups. You should also not forget that the windows should not be completely covered with a cloth, so it is best to take a curtain made of a translucent material.
And to allow daylight into the room, you can use types of curtains such as cafe, Austrian or London, which are known for covering only half of the opening.
The bay window itself is quite useful, regardless of its location, it is only important to choose the right purpose for which it will be used and its design.
Categories: Balcony DesignLocations: Living Room • Home Office • Relaxation Area • Kitchen • Dining Room
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Bay window design, tips and ideas for home interior design
Bay window is the protruding part of the facade of the building, which can significantly increase the internal area of the rooms. They come in round, rectangular or polyhedral shapes and are usually made fully glazed to better illuminate the interior space.
In the architecture of residential buildings for mass residence, this is a rare occurrence, but when building country cottages, bay windows are sometimes made, both one-story and two-story.
The internal space is used for different purposes and today we will talk about the modern comfortable use of this exotic corner of our apartments with the help of designers from different companies.
Living room variant
If your house has a spacious bay window, then the designers from Erotas Building corporation suggest arranging a chic modern living room there with elegant upholstered furniture, an openwork table made of polished light walnut wood, an unusual chandelier and a huge ficus in a modern vase.
An unexpected and pleasant combination, isn't it?
The style of the 50s of the last century is fashionable again and this is evidenced by the original bench from Megan Nordin Design on a wooden base with conical metal legs. Multi-section frames of snow-white color in the “retro” style are in pleasant harmony with the light upholstery of the soft mattress of the bench and the light color of the walls of the living room.
A semi-circular sofa and a round side table from Freshhome with an original finish fit perfectly into a convex room and create a cozy atmosphere in a bright living room.
Upton Architecture did the impossible by successfully arranging a semi-circular custom sofa in the living room's hexagonal space. It turned out to be original and rather funny…
Faiella Design designers offer a non-standard solution by installing a large soft bench in a semicircular bay window and picturesquely arranging cushions. You just want to sit comfortably with a book, and a table-bar on wheels will be a nice addition.
Once in childhood, everyone loved to build all kinds of huts from chairs, sofa cushions and bedspreads. You can return those distant feelings by fencing off its space from the entire living room with thick curtains from ceiling to floor, and enjoy solitude in a quiet harbor, admiring the panorama of the landscape through a modern window.
p>We must not forget about the rational use of the internal space of the furniture installed in them. You can arrange boxes for storing toys and everything you need for the smallest households, as the designers of Integra Construction Group advise, or a bar-refrigerator for all kinds of drinks, so as not to break away from pleasant communication with friends for “trips” to the kitchen.
Agree that there are many options...
There is an original solution - to organize a home office with a seating area, as the designers of "DeForest Architects" advise. This idea will especially appeal to writers and other creative people - if the muse suddenly left you for a while, then you can always relax on a soft sofa, enjoying the landscape that opens outside the window.
In the kitchen and dining room
Even in the smallest kitchen, with a mini bay window, you can arrange a cozy corner for morning coffee! And I’ll calmly feed the little fussy oatmeal while he watches the birds outside the window.
The small bay window next to the modern kitchen has its own charm.
In a cozy place, you can always retire to take a break from cooking dinner or talk with a neighbor who has dropped in for a “minute”, which will undoubtedly please the representatives of the weaker sex among the visitors.
Rectangular bay window couch can be adapted for a family dinner by moving a table and adding a couple of chairs, as designer Jessica Kelly suggests, and as a family hearth keeper, she knows a lot about it!
In some houses, the area occupied by it becomes a dining room.
