Bay windows can certainly be some of the most beautiful and eye-catching features of period houses. Many Victorian buildings for example boast gorgeous and sometimes very large bay windows. For the very nature of their architecture, Victorian-style homes can be a little on the dark side when it comes to natural light. That’s why it is very important to consider how to dress a bay window sill in a way that compliments the period style of your home without compromising on the amount of light coming through. 

But it’s not just Victorian or Edwardian buildings showcasing bay windows, in fact, more contemporary and modern properties can have bay windows too!  They are such a critical feature of any home as not only do they project outwards from the main walls of the property, giving a feel of space but they constitute a unique characteristic of your home that everyone passing by or visiting will admire and appreciate. So if you are lucky enough to have one or more in your home, it is very important to make the most of it! 

Types of Bay Windows

As there are many distinctive types and shapes of bay windows it is vital to select a window dressing that is perfectly tailored to the style, character and uniqueness of your window. If you are unsure about the kind of bay window you have, here’s a handy guide to help you: 

• Triangular:  Made up of two windows set at 120 degrees
• Bow: Made up of curved windows
• Oriel: Supported by a corbel or bracket 
• Angled / Canted: Made up of a flat front and angled sides
• Multifaceted: Made up of up to seven panes of glass, rather than the usual three

And now that you have identified which kind of bay window you have it is time to make sure that you dress it so that to enhance its features and beauty. In our local area, we have a lot of 6 and 7 bay windows that we are experienced at dressing.

How to Dress a Bay Window

Go for made-to-measure products!

If you want to achieve a neat and tidy look, made-to-measure blinds for example could be what you are looking for! For a more luxurious or cosy feel, you can go for Roman Blinds and set them in separate segments of your window. By doing this you will be able to control the amount of light coming through your window as well as create a focal point by having them at different heights. 

Let the Light in!

As bay windows project outwards from the main structure of the house they provide you with great views of the outside world and they also help you flood your home with natural light. To complement this unique feature of your bay window go for light rollers or sheer pleated blinds! These varieties will help you create a lovely ambience by letting sunlight subtly filter through into your room. 

Use fully-lined fabrics

To help protect the insulation of your home and save on your energy bills, go for fully lined curtains, Roman Blinds or Pleated blinds. Lined fabrics not only will allow you to keep your home warmer during the winter months but they are also great during the warmer months and help you preserve that vital shade to keep your home cooler in summer! 

Try shutters!

And for a more contemporary, yet elegant and understated finish, why not go for Shutters? They are ideal for homes with distinctively shaped windows as they are bespoke built to perfectly fit the shape of your window. Shutters can really help you build on the natural period features of your home and create a lovely contrast that will make your windows look so unique. 

Ask the experts

Call Blind Technique for some help. We’ll be able to offer you expert advice about the best option to suit your window!