Making The Most Of a Bay Window

A bay window can add real character to your home and it can do wonders for the light and atmosphere within a room. But while there are many reasons to sing the praises of this architectural feature, there's also one unavoidable truth - they can be a real pain to decorate!

However, our guide to making the most of a bay window is here to help! Read on to really let your window shine...

A window seat is the perfect place to sit and read or to watch the world go by, and your bay window gives you the perfect opportunity to create one! If you're handy with woodwork, why not have a go at putting together a base yourself, and then just upholster it in the colours and fabrics that suit your room's décor. For a really inviting space, fill it with cushions and keep a coordinating throw nearby for snuggling under.

Fitting cupboards inside your window seat, or picking one with a lift-up lid will allow you to turn an irregularly-shaped part of the room into the perfect place to keep your clutter out of sight!

Framing your bay window with luxurious curtains can give it an even grander appearance, but make sure they don't block out too much of the natural light - you may want to consider elaborately bunched and draped voile curtains instead for a semi-sheer window dressing with just as much drama.

If you prefer a less fussy look in your home - or if your bay window is situated in the bathroom or kitchen - tiling is a sleek, sophisticated option that's easy to maintain. You could tile a section of the wall following its shape round to really emphasise the window's presence, or, if you're lucky enough to look out onto a private space, why not fit your bath in the nook created by the window for a truly decadent look?

Tile around the bath using the bathroom tiles of your choice: if you need a helping hand take a look at our 'how to' guide.

In the kitchen, a bay window can make all the difference to the feel of the room - filling all corners with light. You could play this up by keeping the room's decor light, fresh and airy, with white or cream walls and a truly contemporary feel, but why not take this unique opportunity to feel free to colour your kitchen as darkly as you like?

Use our range of wood flooring, country-inspired units and a bold shade on the walls will never seem too dark when you've got this much light flooding in!