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Window Treatments for Bay Windows
Window treatments for bay windows come in a variety of styles and designs including Drapery, Shades and Blinds. Since bay windows are beautiful architectural features designed to bring more light into your home, your window treatments should be custom-built for the space to enhance the design, while also providing privacy and light control. With a variety of window treatments to choose from, how do you choose the right one for your bay window?
First, make sure you understand what a bay window is and the different styles of bay windows to identify your particular window design. Then, learn about all your options for bay window treatments, including styles, customizations and more, plus, get inspiring ideas from curated examples of window treatments for bay windows.
Key Takeaways:
- Custom is worth it: bay windows have angles and sizes that premade window treatments rarely fit.
- Match the treatment to the room: elegant drapery for living rooms, easy-to-clean blinds for kitchens and blackout-lined shades for bedrooms.
- Decide the mount location: window treatments can be installed along the angles of the bay window or on the wall outside of the window which hides the alcove when closed.
- Layer for control: Combining window treatments like Solar or Roller Shades under Drapery or another shade like Roman or Woven Wood Shades offers more light control and design dimension.
- Order swatches before committing, so you can see fabric and color options in your own light.
In this article
What are Bay Windows?
A bay window typically has three angled windows: a larger window in the center and two smaller windows angled toward it on either side. Together, these windows project outward from the home to create a nook or alcove that brings in more natural light and adds architectural dimension to the room.
Because bay windows vary in shape, depth and angle, the best window treatment for bay windows depends on how the windows are arranged, how much mounting space is available and whether you want to treat each window separately or cover the full bay alcove.
Examples of Bay Window Treatments by Type
The most common bay window styles include three-sided bay windows, box bay windows and oriel bay windows. Each can work with a range of window treatments depending on the layout, room style, privacy needs and light control goals.
Three-Sided Bay Window Treatments
A three-sided bay window is the classic shape most recognized when thinking of a bay window: three angled windows of the same size in a semi-hexagonal design, or one larger window in the center of two smaller windows.
Box Bay Window Treatments
Box bay windows feature a rectangular shape, typically with one large picture window in the center and two smaller windows on the side that meet the front window at a 90-degree angle, creating a box-like shape.
Oriel Bay Window Treatments
Oriel bay windows are typically found on older buildings. They protrude from the exterior and don’t touch the ground but are supported by a cantilever or corbels. They usually feature three windows in a semi-hexagonal design.
Bow Window Treatments
A bow window is similar in structure to a bay window, but instead of angles, itās curved and has four or five windows, all of which are usually the same size.
Luckily, the same window treatments for bay windows will also work for a bow window. Just keep in mind that for continuous drapey, you’ll need to choose a drapery rod or track system that can be curved.
Pictured: Tailored Pleat Drapery, C.O.M., Lana in Ivory with Madison Track Hardware in Stainless Steel, design by Natasha Baradaran, photography by John Bessler for the 2022 Kips Bay Dallas Showhouse
Why Go with Custom Window Treatments for Bay Windows?
Bay windows feature a unique design with their angles, and premade window treatments may not be well-suited to the window sizes or the angles. Ill-fitting window treatments for bay windows will not only look unsightly but may not function correctly if the window treatment does not properly suit the application. Thatās why itās best to go with custom window treatments. Custom window treatments are made to measure and can be customized to suit your specific design preferences. They ensure a seamless and polished look that will enhance the beauty of your bay windows. Plus, theyāre designed to function perfectly for the right privacy and light control.
Window Treatment Options for Bay Windows
Window treatment types for bay windows fall into three families: Shades, Blinds and Drapery. Each offers different styles and light filtration options, and you can customize your fabric, control type, lining and more.
Learn more about your options for bay window treatments, as well as customization possibilities, plus, get ideas with inspiring examples of each type of window treatment.
Drapery for a Bay Window
Drapery is an excellent choice as window treatments for bay windows, adding elegance and sophistication to your space. Drapery features long panels of fabric that can be made of a wide variety of fabrics, including cotton, velvet, silk and linen. Find out more about the customizations for Drapery, how to hang drapes in a bay window and get inspiration for your own space.
Customizations for Drapery
- Pleat style ā Drapery pleat style refers to how the drapery is fashioned at the top of the panel. Options range from sleek, modern Ripple Fold Drapery to classic, traditional Pinch Pleat Drapery to elegant, dramatic Goblet Drapery and more, so you can find the right look for your room.
- Fabric ā Fabric for drapery ranges from luxurious silk to beautiful linen to performance synthetics like Sunbrella and so much more. Choosing the right fabric will depend on your aesthetic preferences as well as functionality, as some fabrics, like silk curtains, may need more maintenance than others like synthetics.
- Lining ā Drapery lining can be added to your drapery panels to affect your light and privacy levels. Options include:
- Privacy lining ā offers excellent privacy but lets some light through.
- Blackout lining ā offers a room darkening effect and excellent privacy.
- Interlining ā A cotton flannel that can be added to either privacy or blackout lining for improved insulation.
- Hardware ā Drapery hardware is available as traditional rod and ring sets as well as modern track systems. Choosing the right one will depend on what pleat style you choose as well as your aesthetic and functional preferences.
How to Hang Curtains on a Bay Window
There are two main ways to hang curtains on a bay window, which include:
Inside the Alcove
Hanging your curtains inside the alcove means the curtain rod follows the shape of the angled windows. This method will require drapery hardware that can be angled or bent in a curve to follow the shape.
Outside the Alcove
Hanging your curtains outside the alcove means installing the rod or track system on the wall or ceiling above the alcove. This means the alcove will be completely hidden when your drapery is closed.
How you decide to hang your drapery will also affect how you measure the length and width for ordering.
How to Measure for Drapery
For hanging curtains in the alcove of a bay window, youāll need to measure the width from one end of your bay window, through the angles, to the other end. Be sure to keep the measuring tape within each angle to get an accurate width measurement.
If youāre hanging curtains outside the alcove, measure the width of the alcove opening, plus 12 inches on each side. This will ensure you can pull your curtains totally off the opening to expose the full bay window alcove.
For length, curtains should typically float just above the floor, or you can add a couple more inches, so they break or puddle on the floor.
Shades & Blinds for a Bay window
Shades and Blinds are both excellent options for bay window treatments. Both can often be installed inside the window frame of each window, for a clean, tailored appearance. Plus, these window treatments for bay windows come in a wide range of options that will suit your aesthetic style as well as your light and privacy control needs.
Types of Shades for Bay Windows
Explore types of shades for bay windows to get a sense of the styles available. All of these shades are suitable as window treatments for bay windows, so making your selection will depend primarily on your own preferences for aesthetics and functionality.
Roller & Solar Shades
Roller and Solar Shades both feature material that wraps around a tube as it is lifted and lowered. Solar Shades are unique because they block UV rays while still letting natural light through. Roller Shades can be made of either light-filtering or blackout material depending on the level of light and privacy control you need.
Roman Shades
Roman Shades come in six unique styles, some of which are more functional than others and make for a better choice for your bay windows. Like Drapery, Roman Shades come in hundreds of fabrics and also have lining options available including privacy, blackout and interlining so you can get a look you love with the functionality you need.
Woven Wood Shades
Woven Wood Shades are made with natural, eco-friendly materials and offer an inviting organic look. These shades come in four styles, three of which are similar to the Flat and Cascade Roman Shades come with privacy and blackout lining options. The fourth style is just like a Roller Shade and is not compatible with linings. All styles are highly functional, making them a good choice as bay window treatments.
Cellular Shades
Cellular Shades feature honeycomb cells in either single- or double-cell designs that offer excellent insulation as they trap hot and cold air alike. This type of shade is highly versatile and easy to operate while having a simple, sleek design. Light filtering and blackout material options are available so you can achieve the right level of light and privacy control.
Types of Blinds for Bay Windows
Blinds are another great option as window treatments for bay windows. Bay window blinds come in two main categories: Wood Blinds and Metal Blinds. These blinds feature tiltable horizontal slats that allow you to control your light and privacy with ease.
wood blinds
Wood Blinds are made from sustainable American Basswood and deliver warm wood tones that add an inviting natural element to your space. Choose with a wide range of finishes, from simple painted wood design to complex exotic grains.
metal blinds
Metal Blinds are made from light, durable aluminum and offer modern, sleek look in several metallic finishes. These types of blinds are excellent as industrial-inspired window treatments for bay windows in a modern home.
How to Hang Shades & Blinds on a Bay Window
Blinds and Shades can either be installed in an inside- or outside-mount application on your bay window. Regardless of mount type, youāll typically have one shade or set of blinds to cover each window.
inside mount
Inside-mount Blinds and Shades are installed inside the window box or window frame. This type of installation requires the window treatment to be secured to the top of the frame. Inside mounting is only possible if your window frame is deep enough to support your chosen type of Shades or Blinds in a secure mount. Typically, the depth requirement is Ā¾ā for a secure mount but will be more for a flush inside mount.
outside mount
Outside mount Blinds and Shades are those that are installed outside of the window box or window frame on either the wall or the ceiling above the window trim. This type of installation does not have a depth requirement and so is more flexible. However, for bay window treatments, be aware of the angles of your windows. Smaller angles may make it difficult to fit headrails next to each other without touching.
How to Measure for Blinds & Shades
Measuring for Blinds and Shades will vary depending on whether you choose an inside- or outside-mount application.
inside mount
For an inside mount, you typically want to take three measurements on each window for your width (top, middle, bottom) and length (left, middle, right). The largest number for your length will be your ordering length. The smallest number for width will be your ordering width.
outside mount
For an outside mount, you need to measure the area you want to cover. For width, measure the same distance on each side of the frame so your Shade or Blinds are centered on each window. For length, start at the point above your frame where you want the headrail to be installed and measure down just past the window frame.
Bay Window Treatments Inspiration by room
Get ideas for your design by exploring these window treatments for bay windows in different rooms.
Pictured: Waterfall Woven Wood Shades in Bayshore Parchment layered with Tailored Pleat Drapery in Linen Ecru. Bedroom Bay Window Treatments
A bedroom bay window needs privacy, softness and light control. Inside-mounted Woven Wood Shades or Roman Shades can treat each window individually for a tailored fit, while Drapery layered over the top helps soften the full bay window and reduce light gaps at the edges. For more ideas, see our bedroom window treatments
Pictured: Tulip Roman Shades in Cottage Stripe Black layered with a Roller Shade in Cora White. Breakfast Nook & Dining Room Bay Window Treatments
A dining room or breakfast nook bay window with a window seat suits softer, shorter treatments. Tulip Roman Shades bring gentle folds at sill length, while a light-filtering Roller Shade can help keep the space bright for morning meals and provide added light control for evening privacy. For more ideas, see our dining room window treatments.
Pictured: Tailored Pleat Drapery in Heathered Linen Ivory with Madison Track Hardware in Gold, design by Angela Kim. Living Room Bay Window Drapery
A living room bay window can be treated as one continuous window area with drapery on a track system that follows the full angle of the windows. Similar to an outside-mounted bay window treatment, this approach covers the full window area while creating a more tailored, finished look. For more ideas, see our living room window treatments
Pictured: Relaxed Roman Shades over a bay window seat with cushions and a cozy look. Bay Window Seating with Relaxed Roman Shades
A bay window seat can feel more finished with Relaxed Roman Shades that fit each window and soften the full nook. The gentle folds add warmth, privacy and light control while keeping the seating area inviting for reading, relaxing or enjoying the view.
Comparing fabrics?
Order free swatches and see them in your own light.
Choosing the Best Covering for Your Bay Window
The best window covering for your bay window comes down to your particular needs and aesthetic preferences. Start with what’s most important to you (light control, privacy, room type, etc.) then make your other selections around it.
| Treatment | Light Control | Privacy | Insulation | Best Room | Feel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Solar Shades | Low, lets light in but blocks UV and keeps the view | Medium | Medium – great for blocking heat, not cold | Living room, office | Sleek, modern |
| Roller Shades | Light-filtering to blackout | Low to high | Low | Any room | Clean, simple |
| Roman Shades | Light-filtering to blackout with lining | Medium to high | Medium | Living room, bedroom | Soft, tailored |
| Woven Wood Shades | Light-filtering, lining optional | Medium | Medium | Living room, dining | Organic, textural |
| Cellular Shades | Light-filtering to blackout | Medium to high | High | Informal living rooms, drafty rooms | Simple, sleek |
| Wood Blinds | Adjustable through the slats | Medium to high | Medium | Living room, study | Warm, tailored |
| Metal Blinds | Adjustable through the slats | Medium | Low | Kitchen, modern spaces | Sleek, industrial |
| Drapery | Sheer to blackout with lining | Low to high | Medium to high | Living room, bedroom | Soft, dramatic |
Bay Window Treatments by Priority
- Best for room darkening: Blackout Roller Shades or Drapery.
- Best for glare reduction while letting in light: Solar shades that filter sunlight and block UV rays.
- Best for privacy with some light filtering: Light Filtering Shades like Roman or Woven Wood Shades with a privacy liner.
- Best for insulation in drafty or older homes: Cellular Shades with honeycomb cells that trap air.
- Best for a soft, dramatic statement: Drapery with their tall panels of fabric.
- Best for a tailored, shutter-like look: Wood Blinds with the clean lines of shutters but more everyday versatility.
- Best for large or hard-to-reach bays: Motorized Drapery or Shades you can adjust remotely.
A couple more points to consider for your bay window treatments include:
- Maintenance needs: For upkeep, Cellular and Roller Shades dust easily, Woven Wood and Roman Shades spot-clean, and Wood Blinds wipe down with a damp cloth.
- Avoid premade treatments: Premade window treatments on the angled windows of a bay design tend to leave gaps or overlap, giving you a far less tailored look and potentially interrupting the functionality of your window treatments. A made-to-measure fit for your window treatments keeps your bay window looking polished and operating smoothly.
Installing Window Treatments on a Bay Window
Installing window treatments for bay windows is very similar to any window treatment installation. As always, be sure to read the instructions for your chosen window treatment before installation.
To give you a sense of the installation process for bay window treatments, follow these general best practices:
- Step 1:āÆGather tools. Youāll typically need a stepladder, pencil, tape measure, level, drill and screwdriver, but check your window treatmentās specific install instructions for an exact list.
- Step 2:āÆMeasure and mark where your mounting brackets will go.
- Step 3: Install the brackets in the right place with the appropriate tools and indicated in theāÆinstallation guideāÆfor your chosen window treatment. Attach the headrail to the brackets for Blinds and Shades, and for Drapery, hang the curtain rod or track system as well as your drapery panels.
Get Started with Your Bay Window Treatments Project
With all the insight you need regarding window treatments for bay windows, including product options, customizations, inspiration and installation tips, youāre ready to kickstart your project. Schedule a free professional measurement to take the guesswork out of your bay window treatments design and application. Our professionals will measure the angles for you to ensure the perfect fir for your Shades, Blinds or Drapery.
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