If you’re thinking about adding a bay window to your home, you may be surprised to learn that there are actually several different types of bay windows. Some are ideal for larger spaces, while others work best for smaller areas. Many are frequently designated for use in specific rooms in the home, such as the kitchen or living room.
Take a closer look at what separates bay window styles — and how you can choose the best option for your architecture and personal preferences.
Exploring Various Uses and Types of Bay Windows
Each bay window style has distinguishing characteristics, typical uses, and associations with certain design styles. Here’s what you need to know before choosing the right one for your preferred placement and function.
Living Room Windows: Traditional
In its most traditional form, a bay window consists of three panels. This includes a large picture window in the center and two smaller windows flanking it. The central panel is parallel to the façade of the home. Side panels angle toward the building at 45 degrees so that the window protrudes from the home’s exterior.
Because the spacious bump-out extends upward from the floor, traditional bay windows are usually on the ground floor. Nook-like bedroom or living room bay windows are perhaps the most common use of the traditional form. They’re often seen in vintage architectural styles like Colonial or Victorian homes.
Windows for Large Spaces: Canted
Canted bay windows are similar to traditional ones but tend to take up more space. While there’s still one front and two side panels, each panel of the window box can also feature additional windows. This large bay window creates an attention-grabbing architectural feature.
Typically the largest of the bay styles, canted windows are an ideal complement for a spacious layout. They match the stature of a large home and won’t get lost amid expansive wall space. Such windows are historically seen in opulent Victorian or Edwardian homes and occasionally in Tudor styles.
Upper Story Windows: Oriel
What sets oriel windows apart from other types of bay windows is that they don’t extend to the floor. Instead, they are supported on the exterior by decorative and functional corbels or brackets.
This structure allows them to be placed on higher floors without creating an architectural eyesore. They typically extend to the ceiling, creating space for another bay window or a balcony above.
Oriel windows are popular in Tudor and Gothic Revival styles. They’re frequently used in townhouses as well to add natural light in structures that share walls with neighboring homes.
Modern and Casual Spaces: Circle
What sets circle bay windows apart from the traditional style is the use of larger side panels. Generally, they’re still smaller than the front panel. The more generous size of the side panels visually flattens the window box. Even if it protrudes the same distance from the façade as a traditional bay window, the wider stance softens the angles.
This creates the appearance of a curved line that reads as a circular, rather than angular shape. Circle bay windows can add a casual, relaxed vibe to the straight lines of a structure.
Lounge areas like a living room, bedroom, or bonus room — like a music room or library — can benefit from the aesthetic. This style is common in Queen Anne Victorian homes and more modern architectural styles like Art Deco.
Smaller Bay and Kitchen Windows: Box
This bay window style earns its moniker because the smaller side panels are set at a 90-degree angle. Set perpendicular to the façade, this configuration creates a box-like structure. Box windows may extend from floor to ceiling or encompass only the size of the window. Either way, they often feature a wide sill.
If you’re working with limited space or budget, this small bay window could be ideal. The box bay style is often employed as a kitchen bay window behind the sink area. The extended sill also provides the perfect opportunity for indoor plants to get plenty of sunlight.
This type tends to be most common in relatively modern home styles like Craftsman or contemporary.
What About Bow Windows?
Bow windows can be another elegant addition to your home, but they differ from bay windows in a few ways. For one thing, there are more than three windows. Although canted bays have added window panes, they generally stick to the 3-panel configuration — one front window with two side windows.
The bow window, on the other hand, has four or more window panels, all set at angles to one another. In addition, the panels are all equal in size, creating the illusion of a curved shape. The equal sizing and added panels also set this style apart from the circle bay window style.
Tips for Choosing the Right Style
Different styles of bay windows can have a similar appearance, making it hard to choose the right one. However, several small distinctions could impact the best choice for your home. So how can you select the style that complements your architecture and meets your needs and preferences?
Understand Your Architecture
You don’t necessarily have to choose a traditional or modern bay window to perfectly match the style of your home. Still, you don’t want the addition to stick out like a sore thumb. It’s best to start with a solid understanding of the styles that suit your architecture. You also need to consider the scale of your home before you decide.
The purpose of adding a bay window can factor into your decision as well. Maybe you’re looking to increase usable square footage. Alternatively, perhaps you simply want more light and a space for plants to thrive.
Finally, think about your personal preferences. Some people like the refined simplicity of clean lines. Others may lean toward the casual appeal of gentle curvature. Knowing what you’re working with and the function and appearance you want can help you choose the right windows.
Choose Suitable Materials
Selecting materials for your bay window could be as simple as matching existing architectural elements. However, before you purchase framing and window panes, you should also consider how they’ll hold up to weather conditions. They must work with your budget as well.
Don’t forget to ask about long-term benefits like energy efficiency that could offset initial costs and improve interior comfort.
Keep Operational Considerations in Mind
Bay windows often feature a larger central window that isn’t operational. Smaller side panels may or may not open, depending on your preference. A canted bay could be the exception, as it may feature multiple windows in each panel, including the front.
Before deciding, consider different operational mechanisms. For instance, you might like a single-hung sash window that slides up. You could double the function with double-hung windows that slide up from the bottom and down from the top.
Other options include casement windows that push out vertically or even awning windows that push out horizontally.
Benefits of Adding Bay Windows
There are many reasons why you might choose different types of bay windows for your home. When upgrading any existing windows, you can enjoy both functional and aesthetic benefits.
Improve Curb Appeal With Elevated Architectural Features
A bay window is a three-dimensional structure that protrudes from the exterior of your home. Because of this, it can become a notable architectural feature that changes the look of your home.
The right bay window can create a sense of luxury and add elegant or edgy appeal. In the process, you could increase the curb appeal and perceived value of your home.
Increase Natural Light and Ventilation
With more space devoted to glass, bay windows increase the amount of natural light coming in. This makes your home interior feel bigger and brighter. If you add operational windows, you can also improve airflow and ventilation. As you might expect, this window configuration can deliver a dramatic, panoramic view.
Add Square Footage and Versatility
Any bay window style that extends to the floor can increase your square footage. This is ideal if you want to add space you can use for furniture and decor.
One common use for this bump-out is a reading nook or lounge area. You can add a sofa, club chairs, or a window seat for cozy appeal. You might also create an intimate dining area with a bistro set or even a banquette.
Boost Property Value
Bay windows have the potential to increase the perceived attractiveness of your home, along with your property value. They add square footage, increase natural light and ventilation, and elevate curb appeal. This could equate to a higher list price and more interest in your home when it’s time to sell.
The Undeniable Appeal of Bay Windows
There are many different types of bay windows to choose from today. This makes it easy to find a solution that suits every architectural style, functional need, and style preference. Bay windows can elevate the appearance and value of your property. They also increase usable square footage, enhance natural light and ventilation, and create a panoramic view you’ll love.
Are you a Chicagoland resident interested in upgrading your existing windows? Consider a local company that understands your architecture and environs. Your Window Solutions has a great selection and creative team that can bring your vision to life. Contact us for all of your window replacement needs in Chicagoland.
