Choosing Bay Window Treatments

Choosing the right bay window treatments require a delicate balance of opening up a room to all of the wonder benefits of a bay or bow window, without compromising the privacy and security of your home. A primarily Victorian architecture design, bay windows started gaining popularity in the late 1800s because of the aesthetic beauty they added to the exterior of buildings, but also because they provided a number of benefits to the owners of the home. They allow a wonderful panoramic view of the scenery all while allowing a room to bathe in the sunlight. Many people find bay windows a suitable alternative to a sun-room at a fraction of the cost. They are great additions to kitchens and breakfast nooks as a way to wake up in the morning refreshed basking in the sunlight. However, finding bay window treatments has always been difficult because of their awkward three dimensional shape and size.

Types Of Bay Window Treatments

Bay window treatments have certainly evolved since the 1800s, and luckily today there are a variety of options available to home owners. Your intentions with your bay window treatments will determine the best style, depending on whether you want to be able to fully expose the window to allow fresh air to flow through, or if the window is more of a architectural design element.

Custom Plantation Shutters – One of the most elegant and classy bay window treatments are custom plantation shutters measured and built specifically for each individual window. The way interior plantation shutters are hinged, you can either open the slats to allow light and air to pass through, or open them entirely to expose the entire window. This type of versatility makes shutters the superior bay window treatment, however they do cost anywhere from $25-40 dollars per square foot.

Bay Window Curtain Rods – One issue many homeowners have with their bay windows, is covering the entire area of the window with drapes or shades. Bay window curtain rods are made specifically to follow the curved angles of the window and adjust with telescoping rods to match most dimensions. Simply hang your favorite curtain to match the rest of your home, and you immediately enhance the beauty of your bay window.

Fabric Shades – Fabric, or Roman Shades offer excellent coverage and privacy to your bay window. Installation is as simple as treating the unit as if it were three separate windows. This is a cost effective option and allows you to match the decor of the rest of your home. However some find it a little bland, as it does not tie the bay window treatments together into one piece. This look can be tied together, however, by adding a custom valance to the window.

The Best Bay Window Treatments

The best bay window treatments will fit your budget and allow you to utilize your bay window to its fullest extent. For those that plan to use your window daily for fresh air and light, plantation shutters are the best option because they are extremely versatile and will increase the value of your home. If your bay window is just for show, adding a double bay window curtain rod will allow you you mix and match fabrics to create a stunning focal point for any room. If these types of bay window treatments are too expensive, fabric roman shades add a touch of class while still offering some versatility.