If you’ve been staring at the same blank wall, day after day, feeling claustrophobic and isolated, it may be time to install a bay or bow window. They are usually built into houses, protruding outwards, in order to give the resident additional light, ventilation, and space.
One of the main differences between bay and bow windows is the amount, size, and functionality of windows. The bay design usually includes one large (non-opening) window in the center, with two smaller windows on either side. This allows the user one large predominant viewpoint into the outside world. Bow windows, in contrast, are often composed of four to five casement windows in a row, allowing the user various different angles of their beautiful garden, seascape, or their neighbor’s garbage bins—it really depends on the neighborhood. If this sounds like the perfect addition to your home, it’s important to consider a few other factors. (1)
Types and styles
Depending on whether you want your window installation to stand out as an architectural decoration, or simply to blend seamlessly into the rest of the house, there are a few different styles to consider.
Some styles and types include:
- Tudor
- Oriel: Gothic revival style
- Victorian
- Mid-century modern
- Craftsman
- Circle
- Canted (2)(3)
Once your bay or bow window has been installed, you may wish to fancy it up a bit more. This can be done in several ways, from adding a comfortable couch, lots of pillows and plants to even applying window treatments. You may also need to adjust the space according to environmental factors, such as lighting and color.
Bay and bow window treatment ideas may include:
- Strategically hung curtains
- Shades
- Curved curtain rods
- Shutters
- Sheers
- Curtains and shades
Benefits
There are several perks to installing a bay or bow window in your home, including bumping up your home’s market value, adding a beautiful new focal point, as well as an additional space. If you also live in a darker area with little to no windows or natural light sources, a bay or bow window may be particularly beneficial. Due to their protruding nature and large-scale windows, they’re able to feed additional natural light into your bed or living room. According to the Harvard Business Review, there are also several health benefits to natural light exposure. (4)
Benefits may include:
- Boosting Vitamin D
- Improved mood and anxiety
- May improve sleep
- Avoiding harmful fluorescent lighting
If you work from home, your mental clarity and productivity may also be increased with a bay or bow window installation. According to a Future Workplace “Employee Experience” survey, between 43% and 47% of workers reported feeling fatigued and irritable due to the lack of natural light within their office space. Research by Professor Dr. Alan Hedge of Cornell University also revealed that increased natural light sources may dramatically optimize the health and wellness of workers. Therefore, a bay or bow window could significantly improve your mental and physical wellbeing, alongside the several other perks listed above. (5)
Potential issues
Two of the biggest potential issues that may arise are condensation and heat lost through conduction. Limited air circulation and lowered temperatures are usually to blame for these frustrations. While additional natural light may be the reason you installed a bay or bow window in the first place, it may cause you irritation if you prefer to rest in a completely darkened room or can’t seem to block that one, stubborn ray of light. Correct installation is essential in order to avoid any disastrous home improvement stories relating to rotten structures and water damage. Ensuring that you hire a well-qualified professional who follows the proper procedures and requirements, as outlined by the Canadian Standards Association, is vital. (6)
Price
Before installing/replacing a bay or bow window, it is essential to obtain multiple quotes and sufficient warranty information, as well as to ask friends for references so that you don’t get ripped off. The average cost of a bay window sits between CAD$2,600 and CAD$3,600. This does vary, however, depending on the size of the window and the required expertise and materials. Bow windows tend to be a little pricier, as there are more operating windows to consider. This may range between CAD$1,100 and CAD$5,900. Replacing all windows could also cost up to CAD$9,200. (7)(8)(9)(10)(11)
Final thoughts
Bay and bow windows are often associated with cozy reading spaces, additional light sources and extra space. It’s essential to compare prices, and to consider the potential risks that may arise before installation. However, if you’re searching for a mood-boosting home interior design feature that may aid your productivity, a bow or bay window may be your best bet.
