Bay windows are both charming and functional. For one, their basic structure provides for stunning panoramic views while letting sunlight fill your interior. On their own, they lend unique architectural interest, instantly increasing your home’s curb appeal with their impressive appearance. Today’s bay windows, in fact, can easily be mixed and matched with any type of architectural design through either custom frames and trim or a combination of window styles like casement or sliding windows.
However, one thing that makes bay windows a great choice for your window replacement project is that they can add extra square footage to your home. This means that these can be customized in practically any way you want. Read on to learn some of the many design ideas you can incorporate to make an even bigger impression:
1. Trim and Slim
Bay windows tend to look old-fashioned given how they’re constructed. They may look cumbersome, especially if the windows are fitted with dark wooden panels. Instead of thick window grilles, consider slender muntins so you can let more sunlight in and make your room appear more spacious.
2. Multi-Purpose Nook
Bay windows consist of a central window and two additional windows on the side. These are arranged in a polygon to form the recognizable outward protrusion on the side of your home’s exterior. From the inside, you have extra floor space that can be used for a variety of purposes. Depending on the window’s design, you can fit a foldable bed, bench or a freestanding chair in this space.
3. Focal Point of the Room
With the right choice of bay window, you can turn it into the focal point of your room. As you build your multi-purpose nook, consider how it will grab attention. For instance, if you are looking to turn it into a comfortable lounge, be sure to choose rich colors, textured fabrics and enough pillows.
4. Additional Storage
The base of the bay window can be transformed into a much-needed storage area. The area can be used to conceal a radiator or store clutter as you tidy up your room. Open shelving is common, although it can collect dust. Cabinets with drawers or doors can give you plenty of storage space while maintaining a clean look. See to it that these storage spaces are designed the same way as the rest of your home’s cabinetry for cohesion.
5. Simple, Straightforward Design
Sometimes, following the “less is more” approach is better than going all out when designing your home using bay windows. Clean lines and angles don’t just bring a contemporary vibe to your interior—they’re easier to work with than the conventional bay window shapes. If you have storage at the base of the windows, hide the hardware and use European hinges. Decorate the space sparingly as well, using the latest fabrics and accessories.
6. Framing a Beautiful Outdoor View
Picture windows are one of the top window choices among homeowners looking to frame a panoramic outdoor view. While they may provide a wide view of the surroundings, they are unable to offer the same angled view of bay windows. Thanks to the large expanse of glass, they open the space up in all directions. A strategically placed bay window can frame your desired view just like a beautiful frame captures artwork.
7. Adequate Ventilation
The bay windows’ side panels often have operating windows. Whether you select sliding, double-hung or casement windows, these flanker units provide enough ventilation, increasing indoor air circulation and your room’s level of comfort.
Bay windows will dramatically change the exterior and interior appearance of your home at a fraction of the cost of major renovations. To learn more about this unique window style, turn to the professional design consultants of Renewal by Andersen® of Knoxville. As the local source of custom windows, we’ll work with you to design your bay window, taking into consideration your style and your home’s architecture.
To learn more, you can give us a call today at (866) 609-5033 !
