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Interior Design
15 Best Bay Window Ideas for a Breathtaking View
Modified: December 6, 2023
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Doesn’t it feel suffocating to live in a dark and confined house? Breathing feels difficult and anxious thoughts start creeping in if you stay inside for too long. Make your home look more relaxing by adding bay windows. These windows help improve air ventilation and bring more natural light to the house.
What is a Bay Window?
If you have been to San Francisco, you will notice many homes have protruding glass windows on the wall. They are what we call bay windows. Although they come in different styles, the most common design has a hexagonal shape that consists of one large picture window and two double-hung windows on each side. Other types of bay windows include:
2. Box Bay Window
Photo from Pinterest
Why Should You Choose Bay Windows?
You’re probably thinking, why do you have to go through the trouble of adding a bay window if you can install a simple, roof window instead? What’s the purpose of a bay window, and what makes them unique from other window types? Here are some of the reasons why you should choose a bay window for your house:
Read more: How To Trim A Bay Window
Provides a Better View
If you’ve been lucky to own a house in one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in America, then you should definitely have a bay window. You’ll get a better view of the lush green spaces and exquisite gardens outside. Seeing the beautiful nature right outside your window is one way to boost your mood in the morning. It’s a great way to start your day!
Extend Functional Spaces
Modern homes with bay windows usually have a storage bench adjacent to them. You can use the extra storage space to keep the clutter out of sight. Moreover, this storage bench can be turned into a mini library or a cozy, window seat, where you can relax and detach yourself from worldly things.
Add Style to Your Home
One of the benefits of bay windows is that they add beauty and elegance to your home. Although they are commonly used as extra seating spaces, you don’t have to necessarily add a storage bench. You have the option to use it as a desk to display exquisite home decorations. Another way you can add style to your bay window is by adding these gorgeous window boxes. Use these boxes to decorate the exterior with some beautiful plants.
15 Best Bay Window Ideas
Bay windows are typically eye-catching spaces in the house. Our eyes are instinctively drawn into it because of how beautiful it looks with the light streaming through the windows. Since it serves as a focal point in the house, we have to make sure that it looks as inviting as possible. Continue reading to get to know some bay window decorating ideas that could help turn your living room or kitchen into a cozy, functional space.
Read more: How To Put Blinds In A Bay Window
Bay Window Curtain Panels and Blinds:
Indeed, bay windows provide a spectacular view, but they leave you little to no privacy. If you don’t want any nosy neighbors spying on you, you should add some curtains and blinds. Not only do they add a sense of privacy, but they also help insulate your home. Here, we have listed some of the curtains and blinds that you could use to decorate your bay windows.
1. [Exclusive Home] Crescendo Curtains
If you have a floor-to-ceiling bay window, they would look more attractive if you add these Crescendo Curtains from Exclusive Home. These curtain panels have an elegant drape design that helps accentuate the frame of your bay windows. Moreover, it features an exquisite gradient design with a dark indigo shade at the bottom. This creates an illusion of an elongated, spacious room.
Key Features
- Darkening blackout effect
- Sophisticated layered style
- Multiple hanging options
Specifications
- Made of polyester
- Each curtain measures 52 inches x 108 inches
- Available in different sizes and colors
Pros
- Minimize sun exposure; helps protect indoor furniture
- Has thermal insulation properties
Cons
- Doesn’t completely block sunlight
2. [FMFUNCTEX] Semi-Sheer Curtains
Sometimes, the harsh sunlight coming through the windows is too blinding and uncomfortable. One way you can soften natural light is by decorating your bay windows with semi-sheer curtains. Consider purchasing these Semi-Sheer Curtains from FMFUNCTEX because these window coverings can help diffuse harsh sun rays. Furthermore, it features a classic nature-inspired design with its tree-branching print. This helps add texture to a modern minimalist living room.
Key Features
- Nature-inspired pattern
- Wrinkle-free curtains
- Luxurious, textured design
Specifications
- Made of polyester
- Each curtain measures 50 inches x 120 inches
- Available in different sizes and colors
Pros
- Has a nice drape shape
- Goes well with modern living rooms and kitchens
Cons
- Doesn’t provide you with much privacy
3. [ZebraSmile] Bowknot Tie-Up Curtain
Back then, tie-up curtains had lavish, ornamental designs to match the luxurious interiors of Victorian homes. Now, most tie-up curtains have a boho toned-down design. Just like these Bowknot Curtains from ZebraSmile. These semi-sheer curtains are designed with embroidered leaves, thus giving off a refreshing, boho vibe. Add these curtains to your bay windows to create a chic, modern living room.
Key Features
- Semi-sheer curtain
- Nature-inspired embroidered pattern
Specifications
- Made of polyester fabric
- Each curtain measures 39 x 55 inches
Pros
- Helps diffuse sunlight
- Ideal for modern, chic homes
- Versatile design; either hang the curtains down or tie them up
Cons
- Tends to wrinkle after washing
Read more: How To Dress A Bay Window With Curtains
4. [FADFAY] Adjustable Balloon Curtains
Here’s another curtain that was popular during the Victorian era: balloon curtains. These are versatile curtains that can be used either as a valance or a draped curtain to your kitchen bay window. What makes these Adjustable Balloon Curtains from FADFAY unique is that it has a detailed cutwork trim at the bottom. The cutwork adds a vintage touch to the curtains.
Key Features
- Semi-sheer curtains
- Vintage cutwork trim
- Wrinkle-free
Specifications
- Each curtain measures 57 inches x 69 inches
- Available in 4 different colors: Green, Blue, Purple & Off-White
Pros
- Creates a soft effect
- Fabric doesn’t wrinkle after washing
- It would look great on a farmhouse or boho kitchen
Cons
- The rings might fall off if they are not handled with care
5. [LUCKUP] Dual Roller Blinds
If you decide to add a built-in bench to your bay window, then avoid decorating the windows with drape curtains. The curtains will end up looking awkward, so it’s better to use blinds instead. This Dual Roller Blinds from LUCKUP is a good choice because it has light-shielding properties. This can help control the amount of light that is streaming through the windows. What’s more, it’s safe for kids. You can easily pull the chain connector if your child ends up getting caught up on the blinds’ drawstring.
Key Features
- Adjustable blinds
- Safe chain connector
Specifications
- Made of sheer and solid fabrics
- Sizes ranging from 17.7 inches x 59 inches to 43.3 inches x 59 inches
Pros
- Has neat, laser-cut blinds
- Breathable blinds that help prevent rooms from being too claustrophobic
Cons
- Installation might be difficult
Valances and Scarves for Bay Windows:
Although bay windows look stylish already with their iconic Victorian architectural style, you can still make them look more stunning with these valances and scarves. These are decorative accents that are not only used to cover the bay window curtain rod, but also to add depth to a room.
6. [Lush Decor] Weeping Flowers Valance Curtain
Create a statement with these Valance Curtains from Lush Decor. This floral valance is an exquisite accent piece to a minimalist living room because of how the striking color combination of royal blue and navy blue adds texture to all the neutrals and solids in the room. Since this floral valance covers only the top of your bay windows, you should pair it up with a semi-sheer curtain or a darkening window panel to add privacy to your home.
Key Features
- Decorative cascading flower print
- Blockout fabric
Specifications
- This item measures 18 inches (H) x 52 inches (W)
- The rod pocket has a measurement of 3 inches
Pros
- It’s a machine-washable curtain
- Suitable for a farmhouse-themed kitchen or living room
Cons
- Doesn’t block sunlight
7. [NICETOWN] Swag Valance
Even though bay windows are common in living rooms, you don’t have to necessarily follow this trend. You can also install them in the kitchen to make the place look brighter. It’s now going to be easier to prepare and cook meals because the windows bring more natural light into the kitchen. If you decide to add a kitchen bay window, consider decorating it with this Swag Valance from NICETOWN. This valance curtain would be a great kitchen accent if you want to achieve a modern English-style kitchen.
Key Features
- A durable, thick curtain
- Elegant scalloped, swag design
Specifications
- Made of polyester
- This item measures 36 inches x 76 inches
- Available in different colors
Pros
- No chemical smell
- Decorative window treatment for modern kitchens
- Manufacturer used triple-weave technology to make the curtains sturdy
Cons
- Tier curtains are sold separately
8. [MEMIAS] Voile Curtain Scarf
You probably don’t want your house to look outdated so you always make sure to keep up with the latest interior design trends. If that’s the case, then it would be a great idea to invest in versatile curtains. When it comes to versatility, you can never go wrong with this Voile Curtain Scarf. There are many ways you can style this curtain: you can drape it over your bay window curtain rod to create multiple swags or layer it with another scarf to add elegance to your bay windows.
Key Features
- Machine-washable
- Durable fabric
- Versatile curtain
Specifications
- Made of polyester fabric
- This item measures 54 inches x 216 inches
- Available in 13 different colors
Pros
- Doesn’t wrinkle or stretch after washing
- A sheer curtain that has a gentle sheen effect
Cons
- The actual color appears lighter than in the pictures
9. [GoodGram] Fringed Window Valance
Here’s another exquisite swag valance on our list! Featuring the Fringed Window Valance from GoodGram, it has a style that would definitely suit the bay window of a modern transitional kitchen because of the incorporation of soft neutrals and vintage elements. The curtains are made of soft beige brocade fabric and the hem is lined with a fringed trim.
Key Features
- Elegant medallion brocade design
- Soft beige color
Specifications
- Made of poly-blend
- Each valance measures 52 inches x 28 inches
Pros
- Has exquisite medallion patterns
- Adds drama and flair to a modern kitchen space
Cons
- Suitable only to a canted bay window that has three windows of equal size
10. [Style Master] Renaissance Embroidered Valance
Add luxury to your kitchen space by decorating your kitchen bay window with this Embroidered Valance from Style Master. It’s a type of scalloped valance that would go well in modern renaissance kitchens because of its rich ginger color and exquisite gold lining. Moreover, this window valance uses a fabric with an ogee pattern that appears like a honeycomb.
Key Features
- Luxurious Renaissance design
- Machine-washable
Specifications
- Made of polyester and cotton
- Each valance measures 50 inches x 17 inches
- Available in four different colors: Café, Champagne, Ginger, and Gold
Pros
- The ogee pattern adds texture to a minimalist kitchen space
- Durable window valance for kitchens and living rooms
Cons
- Doesn’t provide enough privacy
Read more: How To Measure Bay Windows For Curtains
Bay Window Cushions and Slipcovers:
Turn your bay window into your happy haven by decorating it with these cushions and slipcovers. Most of them are made from soft, velvet fabric, so they can help add comfort to your bay window seat. Furthermore, you could use them as decorative accents to add style to your kitchen or living room.
11. [JeogYong Store] Velvet Cushion Pad
One way you can decorate your bay window seat into a relaxing, cozy space is to add a cushion pad. This is a good alternative to thick, foam bench pads not just because it’s affordable, but also because it’s made of crystal velvet fabric. Usually, this type of fabric is used as a decorative lining for women’s clothes, but some manufacturers also use it on cushions because of its soft and warm texture.
Key Features
- Feels soft and plush
- Non-slip design
Specifications
- This item measures 27.55 inches x 59.05 inches
- Available in different sizes and colors
Pros
- Looks elegant
- Adds warmth to your bay window seat
Cons
- Doesn’t have enough padding
12. [JeogYong Store] Cushion Window Seat
A simple bay window can still look elegant if you incorporate a farmhouse style on it. If this type of interior style is what you had in mind, then you should definitely have this Cushion Window Seat from the JeogYong Store. It has a farmhouse vibe because of the combination of powder blue and beige colors. Moreover, it is embellished with decorative trim that makes it an exquisite cushion slipcover for your bay window seat.
Key Features
- Modern farmhouse design
- Non-slip backing
Specifications
- Made of corduroy fabric
- This item measures 27.55 inches x 59.95 inches
- Available in different sizes and colors
Pros
- Complements a modern, minimalist living room
- The fabric used is breathable and feels comfortable on the skin
Cons
- It’s quite thin
13. [YU&AN] Tatami Cushion Window Mat
When shopping for home decors, we should always consider the durability of the product. Fortunately, this Tatami Cushion Window Mat from YU&AN is made of polypropylene, so you can be sure it will last long. Polypropylene is a type of fabric material that is not only highly durable but also affordable. You can save huge bucks if you choose to buy this cushioned mat for your bay window seat.
Key Features
- PP cotton filling
- Anti-slip design
Specifications
- This item measures 24 inches x 59 inches x 1 inch
- Available in different sizes and colors
Pros
- Ideal decorative piece for modern living rooms
- Keeps wooden benches comfortable, thanks to its plush fabric
Cons
- It’s also quite thin
Read more: How To Measure Bay Windows For Blinds
14. [Intelligent Design] Square Pouf Pillow
It’s not enough to cover your bay window seat with a cushion pad. You should also put on some pillows to make it a more comfortable space. These Square Pouf Pillows from Intelligent Design would be a great addition to your bay window seat because it has a sophisticated tufted design. Plus, each pillow is made from Chenille. It’s a fabric material that has a fuzzy, soft texture. Use these pillows to keep your bay window seat warm and comfortable.
Key Features
- Fuzzy, Chenille fabric
- Luxurious design
Specifications
- This item measures 20 inches x 20 inches x 5 inches
- Available in 7 different colors
Pros
- Feels soft and plush on the skin
- Edges have a sophisticated scalloped design
Cons
- Doesn’t come in sets
15. [YunNasi] Round Throw Pillow
Here’s one sure-fire way to make your bay window appear comfortable and inviting: use accent pieces with circular, round shapes. Just like this Throw Pillow from YunNasi. Apart from having a round shape, it also has a soft, velvet cover that glows whenever the light strikes it. Surely, your bay window will look stunning with these decorative pillows on the bench seat.
Key Features
- Soft, PP cotton, and Velvet cover
- Exquisite round, pleated design
Specifications
- This item measures 15 inches x 15 inches x 4 inches
- Available in 7 different colors
Pros
- Feels soft to touch
- Durable accent piece
Cons
- Pillows are quite small
Frequently Asked Questions About Bay Windows:
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Bay Window vs Bow Window: What’s the Difference?
Although both windows are made up of several windows that extend out of the wall, these two are different. Bay windows only have three windows: there’s a large picture window at the center and two double-hung windows on the side. Meanwhile, bow windows are composed of four or more windows of the same size. Because of this, they usually have a curved appearance with an arched top.
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Read more: How To Hang Bay Window Curtains
How to Measure Bay Windows for Curtains?
Before you start measuring, decide first how long your bay window curtains should be. Do they have to go all the way to the floor or do you want them just below the window frame? Next, measure the width of each window and multiply each by two. Doubling the measurement ensures that there will be no awkward spaces on the curtain rod. The curtains will completely cover your bay windows.
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How Much Do Bay Windows Cost?
The cost varies in every region. But to give you an idea, the lowest price would be around $800 per window. However, the price could go up to $3000 or more if there’s an additional built-in window seat. Bear in mind though that this estimated price doesn’t include the installation fee. Usually, bay window installations cost around $1000 to $2000.
Bay windows do not only add value to your home, but they also help brighten up a room. However, the purpose of a bay window does not only end here. It also serves as a personal sanctuary at home. Simply hanging out at your bay window seat could help improve your mood. It’s like a small space that helps you detach momentarily from all the stressful things in life. If you want your bay window not only to become a decorative element, you should make an effort to turn it into a cozy space. You can start by following our bay window decorating ideas above.
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