The Best Ways to Maximize Your Bay Windows

Bay windows have so many benefits that even if you’re not entirely sure what to use it for, it’s good to have it in your home for later remodeling. Alternatively, it’s a great idea to include them in your next window replacement project. The great thing about bay windows – specifically the additional space that they create – is that they can be used for all kinds of things. Here is a look at some of them:

Window Seats

Window seats are probably the most popular way to maximize the use of bay windows. The bay space can be configured (and reconfigured) however you want, as ottoman-style seats with hinged or removable tops, as hidden drawers or as open shelves. More than a few even use their bay windows to hide radiators or cabling.

You can choose any of these configurations without affecting how you want to style your bay window. No matter what combination of fabric, color palette and ornamentation you use, it won’t affect your window seat’s functionality. Our High-Performance™ Low-E4® glass options also block harmful ultraviolet (UV) and infrared rays. Not only does it help prevent faded fabrics and cushions, you can spend all afternoon in your bay window reading or studying, and you won’t feel any discomfort from sunlight.

Kitchen Banquette

A built-in kitchen banquette is great as a breakfast nook or as a dinner table for small, casual get-togethers. It also works great with both bay and bow windows. Bay window banquettes let you free up some floor space for easy movement, and the bigger window area allows for more natural light, ventilation and even a nice view.

There are several ways you can configure your bay window banquette. The easiest is to place an existing table almost flush within the bay space and position the chairs so that they face the window. You can also have a window seat installed and make it a booth-style table, or if you don’t want to miss the view, have a dining counter built into the bay – you may, however, need to have the window sills adjusted for height in this case.

Home Office

Similar to the banquette idea, you can use your bay window as your home office nook. You can choose to have a custom built-in desk installed – complete with drawers and cable management – or you can move your existing desk into the bay to make the most of your floor space. Traditionally, the seat faces away from the windows as it allows better use of natural light for reading and writing. Since you’re more likely to have a computer on the desk, however, it’s better to face the windows to avoid glare hitting your computer screen.

If you would like to explore bay windows or other styles like our sliding window, call Renewal by Andersen® of Wyoming today at (307) 232-2100, or fill out our contact form to schedule a free, no-hassle quote. We serve many areas in and near Casper, Laramie, and Cheyenne, WY.