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Bay windows are large windows that protrude from an exterior wall of the house, usually made with one centre pane and two panes either side. Similar to a bay window is a bow window, which typically consists of four or five window panes in a more rounded shape. Both bay and bow windows are highly desirable and are excellent sources of natural sunlight, adding sophistication to any room whilst giving you a fantastic view of the outside.

Due to the way in which they extend outside the main walls, bay and bow windows create an extra space inside the home which can be used for a number of purposes, such as improving the room aesthetic, creating storage space or a new area for seating. To help you make the most of your bay or bow window, we have created this guide with a range of ideas and styles that work well in any home.

Window Seating

One of the most popular ways people make use of their bay windows is by creating a small seating area or cosy reading space. Some bay windows have a deep window sill which can save you the job and cost of purchasing a seat to fit in the space. All you have to do is find some suitable cushions to stack on top of the sill and your window seat is complete. 

However, for those windows that have floorspace instead of a deep sill, you can find a couch, bench or two armchairs (for bigger windows) to create a seating area yourself. One important thing to consider when choosing your furniture is the fabric. Due to the proximity of your furniture to the window, the sun’s UV rays may fade the colours of your fabric. Choosing materials that can withstand lots of sunlight will reduce the risk of your furniture fading and will therefore make it last longer.

Alternatively, you could reduce the amount of sunlight beating down on your furniture by installing blinds. They also offer a great amount of privacy so you can fully relax and unwind without worrying about the outside world. At Aspiration Blinds, we make bespoke blinds to fit even the most uniquely shaped bay windows.

Dining Table 

It can be difficult to find the right space for a dining table, particularly if you have limited kitchen space. That’s why we think positioning your dining table and chairs into your bay window space not only looks great, but is practical too, keeping it tucked out of the way and opening up more space elsewhere in the room. If you have a deep window sill, you can use this as seating for one side of the table, saving even more room.

Storage

If you find yourself struggling to find storage spaces in your home, why not transform the space beneath your bay window into a practical storage space? You could have some handy storage units or drawers fitted into the space to store things away neatly. You could even have them made as one large bay window seat with storage space underneath, becoming twice as practical.

Soak with a View

If you have a large bay window in your bathroom, you have a fantastic space to put a bath. Of course, this is more ideal for homes located where no one can casually stroll past your windows and get an eyeful. However, if you live in a busier area but still like the idea of a bath in a bay window, you can always get bespoke blinds or shutters fitted by Aspiration Blinds for more privacy.

At Aspiration Blinds, we know the importance of ensuring your blinds complement the rest of your bathroom whilst also remaining practical enough to withstand wet and steamy conditions. That’s why our adviser will go over all the possibilities with you during your consultation, ensuring the blinds are made-to-measure, waterproof, wipe clean and the right style for your bathroom.

Study Zone

The World Green Building Council says workers feel more engaged when they work in natural light. And according to research by Future Workplace, workers in daylight office environments reported a 51% drop in eyestrain, a 63% drop in headaches and a 56% reduction in drowsiness. This is why a bay window can act as a perfect study or work zone. The natural light through the window can boost productivity and focus, allowing you to do your best work. 

One thing worth considering though is glare and reflected on computer or laptop screens which can make them difficult to see and can cause eye strain. In fact, this is so important that as part of the Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations 1992, workplaces that use display screens must ensure they are turned away from glare or bright reflections. This can be done by either turning them away from windows or by installing blinds.

At Aspiration Blinds, our professional adviser can help you to choose the right type of blinds for your study area, that will prevent glare on your screens whilst also allowing some natural light into the room.

For more guidance on our blinds and shutters, or to arrange a free no obligation design consultation at your home or place of work, contact us by phone at 01204 301751 or by completing the contact form here.