What’s the Difference in Bow Windows and Bay Windows? Virginia Beach Window Guide

If you’re looking to bring natural light into your home, you’ve got options. In this guide, we’ll be looking at bow and bay windows and how they’re different.

Whether you’re redecorating or adding a new addition to your Virginia Beach home, the way you let light into the room is one of the most important things to consider.

Depending on the design of the room, your personal taste, and even the potential views outside, you may be considering several options.

In this article, we’re going to discuss the differences between two of the most popular windows: bay windows and bow windows.

Both bay windows and bow windows look wonderful in a sitting area, especially when an elegant window treatment is added.

However, they can also elevate the look of any room in your home.

Read on to learn more about how they’re different, why you should consider them, and even get a few decorating tips.

The Differences Between Bow And Bay Windows

Before you decide on the perfect style of windows for your room, let’s ensure you’re clear on the different options.

Bay windows are three windows grouped together.

This window grouping is made up of one center panel, with two others of the left and right side of it.

These windows will angle outwards and have somewhat of a three-dimensional look. The windows will reach out of the wall itself – they are not flat like other types of windows.

The angles of these windows give you more of a view of your back or front yard, so they are perfect for those who wish to enjoy their gardens, even from indoors.

Usually, bay windows are turned to a 90-degree angle.

Bow windows are somewhat similar to their bay cousins.

The also protrude out of your wall at an angle, but as opposed to “just” three windows, these are grouped in about 4-6 panes to form a larger, curved arch.

While a bay window has stronger, corner-like lines angles, a bow window will have more of a fluid curve.

While in the past, bay and bow windows were most often associated with Victorian architecture, now even those who have a more minimal and modern decorating style are installing them.

In addition to the flexibility of decor they offer, let’s take a look at some more reasons why so many people love bay and bow windows.

Why You Should Get Bow and Bay Windows in Virginia Beach, VA

Now, let’s take a look at some of the most popular reasons why people in Virginia Beach, VA choose to install both bow and bay windows in their home.

You Need More Natural Light

Natural light helps to open up a room, provides an elegant look, and can even create a more dramatic lighting landscape.

If your lighting fixtures just aren’t doing the trick, these windows will provide the perfect solution for you.

As a bonus, during the warmer months, you can open your windows to let a little extra air flow throughout the room. Especially if it’s a heavily-trafficked room, these windows will help to improve the overall ventilation of the space.

You Have A Lot Of Wall Space

There’s nothing more maddening than staring at a large, blank wall.

But sometimes, it can be difficult to find a piece of art that can cover a larger wall space.

Instead of leaving your wall blank, install a bow or bay window to turn unsightly bare walls into an elegant seating space. Problem solved!

Your Room Needs A Strong Focal Point

Finding a focal point for your room is one of the biggest design challenges there is, no matter your interior design style.

Luckily, the focal point is a problem easily solved by the installation of either bow or bay windows.

Your eye will go straight to the view, light, and elegance of these windows, whether or not you decide to add a window treatment.

You Have A Fabulous View

You’ve worked hard on your landscaping and gardening – why not enjoy it and show it off?

Your windows will ensure that you get the most out of your garden and view every day.

You Want To Add More Square Footage

Of course, you know that a square footage your home has, the more its value increases.

Whether you’re considering putting your home on the market soon, or if you just want to open up the look of your room, bay and bow windows are a wonderful option.

Decorating Tip – Try A Window Seat

Especially when it comes to bay windows, many choose not to have any window treatments at all.

This is usually because the design of the windows themselves are elegant enough to display.

Also, many homeowners choose to install a window seat or even a reading nook directly underneath their bay windows.

This allows you to maximize the seating space in the room, and lets you read your favorite book or even nap right in front of your window. Be warned though – if you have a four-legged friend, it may quickly become their favorite spot.

Additionally, a window seat gives you a wonderful opportunity to find some more storage space in your Virginia Beach home.

No one needs to know that underneath your elegant window seat, you’re storing your kids’ sports equipment!

Where Can You Find The Best Bow And Bay Windows?

After reading this post, we know you may be eager to install either a bow or a bay window in your home.

You need to find a Virginia Beach window company you can trust to get the job done correctly and promptly.

That’s where we come in. Since 1991, we’ve been among the most successful window installation companies in the state of Virginia.

To see some examples of our work, please visit our window design showcase.

Then, get in touch with us to schedule your free, no-obligation estimate appointment. Our experts will make excellent suggestions about where to place windows, which size would look best in your space, and answer any questions you may have.

We also offer several financing options, so you can be sure to find the best one for your remodeling budget.

Get in touch with us today, and let’s create a new, more open and elegant space in your home together.