Bay windows are one of the most attractive architectural features a home can have. They flood a room with natural light, create extra space and instantly add character. But when it comes to choosing curtains, they can also be one of the trickiest windows to dress.
Unlike standard windows, bay windows have multiple angles, varying widths and unique projections from the wall. The wrong curtains can make the space feel bulky or awkward, while the right choice will enhance the window and become a standout feature of the room.
Here’s everything you need to know before choosing curtains for your bay windows.
Why Bay Windows Need Special Consideration
Every bay window is slightly different. From Victorian bays to Edwardian, and modern bay windows, they all vary in shape and size. While this gives the homes that have them a unique feature, there is never a one size fits all solution. Even if you’ve had bay windows in one house, the ones in your new house may not be the right shape for the curtains and poles or tracks you already have.
Where to begin
Let’s face it, no matter how you dress down your bay window, it’s going to be one of, if not the biggest feature of the room so you may as well make the most of it. The biggest challenge of dressing your window is making sure your curtains follow its shape while opening and closing smoothly.
Curtain poles that are made specifically for bay windows are designed to follow the angles and lines of the window and remain as visible a part of the design as a standard curtain pole. They become a part of the architecture and offer another place for the eye to land.
Curtain tracks are much more discreet which allows the fabric of your curtains to become the main feature. Also, they allow curtains to glide more smoothly around tighter angles which makes tailoring the light levels in the room much easier.
Both are excellent choices, but it is worth noting what the room will be used for. A lounge or a dining room does not need to be made fully dark making a curtain pole a good choice if you want to add to the window’s design. However you probably want as little light as possible in a bedroom so a track might be the better choice as they allow the curtains to be closer to the wall which blocks out extra light.
While this might be bonus enough to tempt you to a mechanism that hasn’t been seen much since the 1990’s (though their visual design has been vastly improved), it is worth noting that eyelet curtains aren’t compatible with them, reducing your choice in curtain styles. Tracks also allow for easy layering of curtains (a breezy, chiffon layer under a heavier, black out curtain, for example) while still having both curtains close to the wall.
Whether you choose pole or track, made to measure curtains will heighten the quality of the overall design as they are custom made rather than adapted from a standard size. You can also have as many or as few curtains as you would like, creating further customisation for your overall look.
Choosing the Right Fabric
Lightweight linens and cotton blends create an airy, relaxed look that’s ideal for bright living spaces. This material, and lighter fabrics are well suited to conservatories, floor to ceiling windows, and patio doors where you want a soft transition from your inside space to your outside space.
Velvet, chenille and heavier woven fabrics provide greater insulation while adding texture and depth. These are perfect for period properties or rooms where you want to create a cosy atmosphere such as a bedroom, or cosy lounge.
If your bay window receives strong sunlight throughout the day, consider lining your curtains to help protect the fabric from fading while improving thermal performance.
Don’t Forget Curtain Length
Floor-length curtains, or those that meet a wrap-around bench or deep storage box that doubles as a bench remain the most popular choice for bay windows. They emphasise the height of the room and create a balanced, elegant appearance.
Layer Curtains with Blinds
Many homeowners combine curtains with Roman blinds or roller blinds to enjoy the best of both worlds. Blinds offer excellent daytime privacy and light control with ease of opening and closing, while curtains add softness, warmth and texture during the evening. Layering curtains, as mentioned earlier, is another fantastic way of adding an extra element to your window design.
Layering also improves insulation, making your room more comfortable throughout the year.
Are Made-to-Measure Curtains Worth It?
Absolutely. Bay windows are one of the places where made-to-measure curtains really come into their own. By getting accurate measurements, choosing the curtain length, header style, and material, the result is a window treatment that looks intentional rather than improvised and complements the style of your home.