Bay window – The beautiful and fascinating world of decorating ideas
In This Article
We shall take a look at the unlimited bay window decorating ideas and the many possible ways to use a bay window. These windows are known in many countries around the world and although they have different names and maybe different functions, by definition it is a decorative architectural element on the façade of a building. The term “bay window” originates from the Latin word for gallery or porch, veranda. The term describes a window space outward from the main walls which forms a bay in a room with a flat front and angled sides. A bay window can be positioned at different heights and there are different types – square, semi-circular, rectangular, triangular or polygonal, sometimes curved. The origin of bay windows dates back to Medieval times but their popularity grew tremendously during the 1870s when they became a feature of the Victorian residential architecture and was located on the ground floor. Bay windows increase the amount of light entering the room which is especially important in deep rooms and make spaces appear larger than they actually are.
Accent on the elegant architectural detail
Bay window decorating ideas can be divided in two main groups – exterior and interior. As an ornament of the house facade bay windows are a great architectural element for a number of reasons. Architects of the Victorian era designed and decorated them thoroughly so that to make them a symbol of prosperity. Many people consider them as something old and traditional but they can be extremely stylish and contemporary. In modern homes the windows can be a great addition as they increase the size of the property and add value, allow a maximum amount of natural light at any time of the day and when open or closed bay windows help for the ventilation of the room. They can be used to build a comfortable place to read and relax or as storage space and can be used creatively to highlight non-traditional architectural features or unusual interior design.
Bay window decorating ideas – how to use the space creatively
When you have a bay window you can use it many different ways and you can give them a traditional, classic look or an incredibly elegant and modern look and sleek design with different curtain and valance ideas. For example, you can create an accent in the interior and you build a cozy and comfortable place that will become a focal point for the room by using rich colors, different textures and many decorative pillows. They provide a wonderful opportunity to include various built-ins for storage – drawers, cupboards, shelves, which is of great significance for any modern home. Bay window decorating ideas can help you make a connection in the interior. Use the space of the bay window and decorate it with modern lights, cushions, an elegant table, flower vases and beautiful shutters. The elements, colors and textures in the design of this otherwise small corner of the room, may be the link in the interior and accent on the mood that you want to create. You could create a comfortable seating to enjoy a splendid panoramic view, a stylish and luxurious place to rest or an adorable reading corner. Choose high-quality fabrics and upholstery which will help you achieve a flawless design and comfort.
Bay window decorating ideas and efficient use of space
Who does not dream of a beautiful living room, a bright kitchen, a spacious dining room, and a cozy bedroom? Let’s have a look at the different bay window decorating ideas in the different areas of the home. The ideas will hint you for the different ways to furnish and arrange the space so that it becomes an attractive and welcoming area which will be used in the best possible way.
A bay window in the living room needs to be decorated with a special attention as this is the room where we receive visitors. The design should be in harmony with the interior of the living room and you can use the space in different ways. Before that you should decide on its functional purpose – do you want to create a rest area, additional seating or perhaps display your exotic flowers?
A bay window in the kitchen is the perfect place to use it for one of the adorable kitchen nook ideas. You can design a comfortable area where the family will start the day or you will enjoy a cup of coffee with close friends. A bay window is the perfect place for arranging your dining area and this is especially popular in modern homes with open floor plan design.
In a small room with a bay window you can organize an excellent work area or home office with a lot of natural light.
In children’s bedrooms you can transform a bay window into a beautiful seating for a princess or a play area with shelves for toy storage and useful drawers.
The furniture that you can arrange in the bay window area will depend entirely on the function. A dining table and chairs, an office desk, a comfortable armchair and lighting for a reading corner or display shelves in a formal area – the options are unlimited.
How to choose curtains and blinds for bay windows?
When choosing the right curtains for bay windows, you need to consider the shape of the window. Separate curtains are suitable for triangular windows while a semi-circular bay window can be decorated with solid curtains. The choice of curtains and blinds will be determined by the amount of light as well. In a light and bright room multi-layer curtains will give you an opportunity to control the light flow which is essential in bedrooms. In dark rooms, the curtains should be light and transparent so that would not block the light. The color and pattern of the curtains and blinds for bay windows will depend on the overall interior of the room. Choose warm shades if you want to create an atmosphere of intimacy and privacy, colorful and bright curtains would be appropriate for a breakfast nook and if you want to create an accent – choose bold and bright colors and patterns.
