Window Design Ideas: Bay Windows

At one end of the dining room, this cozy sitting area set in a bay window offers an intimate space for gathering before or after dinner. A French bronze sculpture captures the play of light from the ceiling-height windows.

This sunny breakfast area, set in a bay, takes advantage of the sweeping ocean view. The windows are topped with transoms that incorporate a diamond pattern found elsewhere in the house. The windows climb to the crown molding, making the room feel larger.

A large and dramatic arched bay window allows light to stream into this master bath, while a freestanding screen provides privacy.

Unlined sheer linen gathered in simple intervals on an antiqued rod soften this bedroom's bay window.

Simplicity was the key to success in this breakfast area. Rather than overwhelming the space with architectural flourishes, the window bay was maximized while its supports were kept to a minimum--offering wide-open views of the ocean stretching out in the distance.

The large bay window in this living room enhances the waterfront home's cottage style. Placing mullions only on the top half of double-hung windows maximizes the ocean view at eye level.

A window seat set into a bay on this upper-level landing serves as one of the home's inviting hideaways. An arched valance framing the window creates a space that wraps around and shelters its occupant.

A trio of windows bumps out from this breakfast area, forming a bay and allowing a satisfying helping of sunshine as part of the meal.

On a sunny day, light streams through the leaded-glass windows that line the tub bay in this master bath. The windows can be cranked open to allow fresh air and glorious garden scents to fill the room. The elliptical, cast-iron tub emphasizes the shape of the bay window.

White trim and molding around this kitchen's bay window complements trimwork in the rest of the house and provides interesting contrast against the cherrywood cabinets.

A bay window, graceful arches, and half-columns on pedestals create a cozy alcove for two antique rockers and a bench seat in this master bath.

Plentiful windows in this kitchen peer out to a landscaped yard, swimming pool, and fountain, creating a chic, casual feel. Light streams into the breakfast area through the large bay window.

Overlooking a small garden, this dining room is bathed in natural light streaming in through the bay window. Floor-to-ceiling draperies add elegance while shades control how much light comes in.

A wide archway and bay window set this conversation area apart from the rest of the living room. Window treatments are simple to ensure attention remains on the architecture and views.

A bump-out and bay window is fitted with banquette seating and a custom-design table that comfortably seats up to six for breakfast, snacks, or casual meals.

An oversize armchair and ottoman take advantage of this great room's two-story bay windows that provide a gorgeous lake view and a quiet place for reading.

Exposed ceiling beams, an antique-look chandelier, and French-feel window treatments cast cozy character on this eating area, tucked into a bay window. The banquette offers flexible seating.

Perfect symmetry and scale create drama inside this understated bath. Vanity tops and windowsill heights align as a horizontal counterpoint to the tall bay window's strong vertical impression.

Set into a deep bay window that stretches floor-to-ceiling, this breakfast area feels almost as if it's located in the garden.

This game room needed seating for pool players waiting for their turns. An extra sofa might have worked, but a built-in seat below a bay window saves floor space and can hold storage underneath the cushions.