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If your home is in need of a fresh, stylish upgrade, then look no further than bay windows. These bold statement pieces aren’t just for show, they can also make a huge difference in how your house looks and feels.
Bay, or bow windows are a combination of three or more windows that extend outward from the main walls of your home. As the name implies, this creates a bay within the home, that can add valuable living space in addition to the esthetic benefit. Thanks to their bright light, unique shapes, and the extra space they create, bay/bow windows create architectural interest in any home makeover.
No matter what kind of space you have, these windows are all about inspiring imagination. Let’s explore eight bay/bow window ideas to reimagine your living room in style.
1. Cozy Reading Nook
Bay/bow windows create prime real estate for the coziest nook on this side of the Reading Rainbow. Here, you can escape into a story at your leisure—and just like your favorite books, you get to choose how you want to make the most out of your exciting backdrop and amazing source of natural light.
Create your own oasis with a comfy armchair or small loveseat in your nook, add plush cushions, a soft pillow, and a light to read by. Depending on the size of your window, a side table or small bookshelf can transform the space into the personal library of your dreams.
2. The Ultimate Window Seat
Creating a peaceful place to sit back and relax is a sound investment in your day-to-day Zen and long-term peace of mind.
Planning a window seat around your bay/bow windows doesn’t only mean more seating, it also means more room for storage that can be hidden under the seat. On top of being a simple life hack, windows with seats make your living room feel more spacious and friendly.
3. Bring Nature Indoors
If you’re the kind of person with a “green thumb,” transform your bay/bow window into a mini-indoor garden and breathe new life into your living room.
Since these windows give you bountiful natural light, you’re looking at an excellent environment for raising plant babies. You can arrange all different shapes and sizes of indoor plants along your bay windows or by hanging planters to grow your indoor green space your way.
4. Show Your Artistic Side
Take advantage of your bay windows’ larger-than-life view by showing off your artistic side. Bay/bow windows give you a beautiful stage lit by natural light, perfect for displaying any of your favorite art pieces, family photos, or other decorative items that show a deeper side of your personality.
Floating shelves and picture ledges are handy for when you want to create a display that can be rotated seasonally. Together with the unique shape and light of your windows, your collection will shine.
5. Extended Dining Area
If you and your loved ones enjoy sharing delicious meals over a beautiful view, use your bay/bow windows as a chance to appreciate the ultimate add-on to your dining room.
If you have the space to make it happen, chances are that your cozy little alcove could be just right for setting up a mini table with chairs—or a full-on table setup, depending on what you’re working with.
6. Add Curtains, Blinds, Shades, and Shutters
Window treatments—like curtains, shades, blinds, and shutters—are a great way to add some function and fashion to your bay windows. Give yourself more privacy, have more control over lighting, and complement the unique shape and design of your windows.
Curtains and blinds come in countless materials and colors, offering you the freedom and creativity choose the perfect match to elegantly or eclectically frame your windows, highlight its features, and offer coverage. Shades and shutters can be custom fit to each section for your bay/bow window, creating a clean, satisfying look and easy adjustment in terms of light control.
7. Awesome, All-Purpose Space
Another option for your bay/bow window area is to turn it into an all-purpose space. To add function to your new cove, you might add cabinets, drawers, or a desk to create a perfect work space.
Whether you’re looking for a space dedicated to your work, study, or hobbies, you’ll be able to work in style with this simple and beautiful setup.
8. Kids’ Play Area
If you’re a parent looking for a new way to entertain and inspire your little ones, create an adventurous play area for your children, centered around your bay/bow windows. Thanks to the bright, naturally lit area, this space is ideal for kids’ activities.
Arrange some colorful floor cushions or a small play table where they can draw, read, or play games—maybe add a few shelves for storing toys or books close by—and you’ve got yourself a fun little play area that will keep your kids busy and happy!
Bay Windows Ideas: Reimagine Your Living Room with Pella Windows and Doors of Omaha & Lincoln
Bay/bow windows aren’t just beautiful features; they make your living room the most functional place it can possibly be. Whether you’re picturing a cozy reading nook, an indoor garden, or a dining area with a view, there are plenty of ways to make your bay/bow windows a focal point in your home.
With Pella Windows and Doors of Omaha and Lincoln, we can help you turn your window ideas into a reality with the highest quality products and an expert eye for home design.
Our team guarantees that you’re set up for success with proper installation so you can avoid unneeded repair costs down the road. On top of that, we also have some of the best warranties in the industry, like our Pella Care Guarantee, ensuring that your new windows are taken care of for years to come!
Schedule a free consultation today and learn more about how we can help you take your living room to the next level with your bay window ideas.
