Is there a beautiful forest or a lovely scene with rolling hills outside your Indianapolis home? If so, you may want to look into window options that capture this scene. Bay and bow windows are two popular options that fill your room with a view of the landscape outside. Both options also add a touch of elegance and glamor to your space.
Read on to learn about the differences between bay and bow windows and discover which may be better suited to your unique tastes.
A bay window has three vertical panels placed side by side. They are arranged at an angle, which can vary based on your home’s layout and your preferences. The window in the center is generally a picture window, while the two windows on either side may be casement, double-hung, or another style.
Bow windows typically have four or five vertical windows placed side by side. The angle between the windows can vary, but because there are more window panels, bow windows tend to have more of a rounded appearance from the outside than do bay windows. They also often take up an entire wall of the room, whereas a bay window may only take up part of a wall. Usually, all of the windows in a bow window are all of the same variety. For instance, you may have four side-by-side double hung windows.
The angular appearance of bay windows is typically better suited for modern and transitional architectural styles. The windows tend to protrude quite far from the wall, which adds floor space. Smaller bay windows can sometimes be added to a window opening that was previously occupied by a large picture window. So they’re a good choice if you’re trying to update your home’s look during a window replacement project.
Bay windows let plenty of light into the room, but not quite as much as a bow window since they’re not as large. They might be a good choice if you want to capture an outdoor view and let in light without overwhelming your other decor. You can even place a half-height bay window over the sink or counter in the kitchen of your Indianapolis home.
Bow windows are common in more traditional homes. In fact, they’re a hallmark of Victorian design. Their more rounded appearance gives them a softer feel than that ofbay windows. However, since they are so large and often take up a whole wall, retrofitting them into an existing home can be difficult.
Bow windows tend to work better if you want to create a nook or window seat inside your home. From the window seat, you should be able to look out in three directions, fully enjoying the view.
Whether you choose bay windows or bow windows, keep in mind that there are many ways to customize your design. You can divide the windows with various grilles, choose hardware that accentuates the colors in your decor, and size the windows according to the level of “drama” you wish to create.
If you’re struggling to decide between bay windows versus bow windows for your Indianapolis home, contact Renewal by Andersen. We offer free in-home consultationsand estimates. Our window professionals will help you decide on the windows that are best suited to your space and preferences.
