Bay Windows

Bring in the outdoors and create addition light with a bay window. Bay windows are a projection from your house facade - generally made of three or more windows. There are curved versions, such as a bow window, or an angular design, called canted windows. The windows can be fixed or operating - or both. Many bay windows are used as window seats to create a comfortable spot - combining the comfort of indoors with the beauty of outdoor surroundings.

Bay windows gained popularity with British Victorian houses, and were predominant in all but the most modest residences. Popular for giving residents a good view of the neighborhood, many added window boxes for flowers or ferns. Plate glass was readily available in Victorian times, albeit expensive.

In older homes, leaks were common in bay windows, as the roof above the bay nearly always presented a problem. Bay windows were utilized for adding air and light in the Arts and Crafts styles, which continues to be a popular style today. In addition to new developments and older 20th century homes, bay windows are used in various architectural styles, including:

• Gothic and Gothic Revival
• Tudor and Jacobean (1485-1625)
• British Victorian (1837-1901)
• American Victorian (1840-1910), including Queen Anne, Gothic, Italianate, shingle and Empire styles
• Arts and Crafts (1860-1925)
• Edwardian (1901-1914)

Other window style articles are available at All Around Your House. We hope you enjoy them all!