Bay Window Decorating Ideas

We love bay windows, they add extra light, space and style to your living area, but people often struggle to utilise the space. That's where our definitive list of bay window decorating ideas comes in handy! So whether you have already got a bay window or you are planning on an upgrade, you are sure to find something on this list which will suit your style.

1. Window Seat

This is probably one of the most popular options for space under a bay window. A window seat is simple, but stylish. It gives you the perfect place to brainstorm idea's, read a good book, draw, or even just stare into space. Nature is proven to boost creativity, so you could think of this as your creative hub.

2. Desk

Instead of a window seat, a desk will allow you to sit down and spend some time designing, working or writing. A study in 2012 found links between daydreaming and creativity. Personally I feel that when I am in front of a window, I am more likely to daydream, so go ahead! Boost your creativity!

3. Under Seat Storage

If you do decide on a window seat, it is always a good idea to make it a hollow one with storage underneath. This way you can have a lovely seat for relaxing in, but also a place to keep cushions, books, DVD’s or anything you want to keep stashed away, or install some drawers beneath your bay window to create additional storage.

4. Book Shelves

Integrated book shelves in the walls around your bay window can bring character to your reading nook. A lot of people put up wallpaper with a bookshelf design on, but the real thing adds storage for your favourites.

5. Couch

You can buy couches specifically to fit into your bay window space in order to utilise the space and create more seating in your living room. Your guests will thank you for it when you are hosting parties.

6. Under Window Shelves

Installing shelves under the windows will, again, provide additional storage or a place for a television.

7. Coffee/Conversation Corner

If you want the ideal place to sit and entertain a friend, set up a conversation corner. The sunlight will make you feel happier and more alert whilst entertaining your guest.

8. Piano

As being near a window boosts creativity, it's the perfect place to position a piano. Plus it gives your home a classy and rustic feel to it, as well as a beautiful centrepiece.

9. Swinging Hammock

This ones a little bit out there, but it is my favourite! Set up a hammock in front of your bay window for the perfect place to relax, read or take a nap... it makes me wish that I had a bay window for this sole purpose.

10. Telescope

If Astrology and stargazing are your thing, then set up a telescope in front of the window. This is especially perfect if you have a window which opens like a door with a clear sky above. Much like the piano, this also makes a great feature in your living area or office.

11. Art Display

Make your home stand out from the outside by setting up an art display or something to catch peoples attention. Show off your personality to your friends and neighbours.

12. Dining

A dining table can be put in your bay window so that you can enjoy the view while eating, although depending on where your bay window is located, you might have to deal with people looking through the window and watching you eat.

13. Bath

Okay, so I would only suggest this one if you have a bay window in your upstairs bathroom or you have some sort of special one way glass or frosted glass, but a beautiful rustic bath tub sat in a bay window does sound amazing!

14. Pet Bed

Create a little alcove underneath your window seat, for your best friend to spend their time too. This will replace a regular pet bed which takes up space, and it will give them somewhere to go while you are vacuuming!

15. Plants

I always struggle to find a place where I can put my plants where they can get enough sun, but if you have a bay window, it's the perfect place, put a table in front of the space for an instant home for all of your plants and flowers.

16. Dressing Table

If you struggle to get natural light when you are doing your make up, but you have a bay window, use it to your advantage. Put a makeup desk in front of the window and voilà, Natural light galore.

17. Christmas Tree

Okay so this one is seasonal, but driving past houses over Christmas which have their Christmas tree slap bang in the middle of a bay window feels super festive.

What have you done with your bay window space? If you have any photos of your unique uses, we would love to see them!