Bay Window Exterior Design

The feature of a bay window has added elegance and whimsy to buildings as an architectural staple since 1894 when the British Building Act changed regulations, so that casements no longer had to be flush with the exterior wall. Projecting outward from an exterior wall, such a feature creates the illusion of a larger room, while allowing the outdoors to become part of the interior. These features also allow sunlight to pour in from angles an ordinary window could not allow.

Such features remain an architectural gem with several different styles and casements to choose from. A traditional casement features three panels, including a large picture pane, flanked by two spots contained in casements. The two encased apertures on either side of the fixture open to allow air flow. A bow is often categorized with the bay and has a similar look, however rather than one large picture casement or aperture, there are two or more with four or more panes flanking. The casements on the flanked windows give the bow window a more rounded look, while the bay window features a more angular look. Bay and bow windows can have different grille patterns placed within the glass including: colonial - a classic pattern that fits any architectural style, never looks out of place, and adds tradition. You can choose the number of squares on each sash; prairie - a great way to accent your windows. A large central section of uninterrupted window, with horizontal sections surrounding it, reminiscent of a frame surrounding a picture; farmhouse - a less common pattern that still looks traditional with two vertical bars on the top section of the window; modified prairie - eliminates two of the horizontal bars that come on standard prairie grilles, offering a less obscured view. Grille patterns enhance the look of a feature by adding modern flare or country styles.

Due to the unusual shapes of bay and bow fenestration, it may be more difficult to find window treatments, however there are many unique designs to choose from. Roman shades can be used in each window to give a clean and functional look, or a curtain can be hung on a customized rod with elbows to accommodate the unique shape of the area. Wood shutters add county charm and offer flexibility as they let in light and views, completely block them, or allow for a touch of both. If privacy is not a concern, a colorful fabric valance can be hung to add a splash of interest. Another decorative option is to install a unique seat to fill the bay area. This creates a sunny, whimsical location to read a book, take a nap or simply look out the window at your surroundings.

Popular since the late 1800's, bay windows continue to act as an architectural staple to any home. With many options when it comes to style, grilles and window treatments, it is easy to make a bay window look and feel elegant and whimsical.

There is something about bay windows that you just do not get with any other configuration of domestic glazing. It was once said that great architecture lets the world into your home: that a really good piece of building design will make the occupants of that building feel that they are as much a part of the natural world outside, as they are of the domestic world inside the walls. The bay window achieves this with superlative ease, making it the ideal first choice for every glazing solution in every home.

A bay allows you to be sitting inside your home, but to be surrounded on three of your four sides by the outside world. The effect is a little like sitting on the prow or stern of a ship. When you have bay windows in your home, the world is all around you - and you feel as though you are sitting in those wide open spaces, even though you are completely protected and warm.

The bay is the perfect place for a little nook, or some kind of seating arrangement that allows you to really relax, to read and watch the world go by in total comfort.