Bow windows installation is a great way to add character to your home while creating some extra space in your interior that is bathed in sunlight. But the large size and unique shape of this architectural feature often poses unique challenges for homeowners when it comes to decorating it.
Bow windows are typically installed in the living room. The location of your windows will influence the type of decorations to use, but any of the options mentioned above will make your extra living space stand out.
Rather than concealing the beauty of your bow windows with simple curtains, you can try any of the following decorating ideas to bring your space to life:
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Accentuate with a window seat
Make your extra space functional by adding a
window seat
to your bow window. A soft seating, either upholstered or as an added
cushion, will make the space more inviting to your guests, give you a
place to read with natural lighting, and provide an isolated area for you
to relax and cuddle up with your new pet as you watch your kids play. To
create a uniform look, consider getting decorative pillows for your seat
cushions and coordinating them with textile or fabric shades.
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Space for your home office
If you have bow windows in your bedroom, you can take advantage of the
extra space and natural, bright light to set up a home office. This is a
great alternative to adding a seating area, especially since you can
create the office-esque vibe to keep you motivated. You can also create a
work area in your living room by installing a room partition to isolate
you from other activities in the larger area. It will not only give you
more privacy, but also add an element of style to your space.
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Breakfast nook
If you have bow windows in your kitchen, consider turning the extra space
into a breakfast nook. It is ideal for taking your breakfast, as well as
for helping your kids do their assignments as you prepare evening meals.
Add some pastels or bright colors to keep the area bright with natural
lighting all day.
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Improvised bow window hardware
With the multiple panels and unique layout of bow windows, consumers
usually find it difficult to find a rod that fits well. To avoid the
trouble, consider using hinged elbows that wind and provide an allowance
for continuous rod application. Ceiling-mount brackets provide a fantastic
solution for hanging your drapes. Choose a rod that matches the style of
the room to create the look you want.
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Silk panels
Although silk panels give your bow windows a traditional look, you can
update it by applying a braid or fabric tape to the inside of each panel.
Alternatively, you can use two different colours of silk for the body of
the drape and a 1-2 foot band at the top/bottom of the panel.
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Drapery panels
This is a great way to add beauty and style to any living room or bedroom
bow window. If you choose to install drapery panels, consider placing them
on the return walls of your bow windows. Placing them at the centre will
clutter the window and obstruct the view. Instead, use drapery panels to
frame your window. Hang them high – with the rod raised to 2 inches below
the crown moulding – to make the ceiling appear higher and your room
longer, tidier, and crisper.
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Contemporary valance
Top treatments, such as the installation of a valance, are a great
addition to any set of windows to open up the room and make it more
inviting. In formal spaces, consider using shutters with a fabric valance
and matching seat cushions and pillows. In other spaces, such as bedrooms,
you can combine operating shades with a fixed valance on top for privacy.
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Roman shades
Roman shades come in a range of styles, materials, and designs. Consider
using flat Roman shades to frame your bow windows and provide a vibrant
and textural window accent.
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Café window panels
If you want the
natural light but with
some privacy, consider hanging a fancy curtain panel on a pressure bar
placed halfway up the window. This will allow light to come in via the
upper portion of the window while giving you the privacy you need. To
maximize lighting and create a casual look, avoid hanging large and heavy
curtain panels, swooping valances, or ornate treatments.
Keep it simple
Your bow windows installation should not create a new pain point for you when it comes to adding beauty and function to the new space. Using a single colour for that specific area, so it’s different from the rest of the room’s design, can deliver a chic and modern look with minimal effort. Simply place a sofa, side table, or chair and some solid Roman shades to mask some of the direct light. This will give you an elegant space without any extravagance.