Mode of application
A bay window is a window space that protrudes forward from the main walls of the house and forms a bay in a room with a square or polygonal layout . These windows are usually found in older buildings, but they are also used in modern homes. There are different ways to use this space. You can simply leave them empty to create more living space, or to make the space a comfortable workspace, cozy nook, or something else entirely.
A bay window is a window space that projects forward.
The secret to an open and airy space often starts with plenty of natural light. In the kitchen, bay windows do double duty, adding lighting as well as an interesting architectural element to the room. The cozy area can be used for a variety of purposes, from breakfast to window seats.
Bay windows are a great opportunity to install a niche in the interior space, which may simply be empty unless you decide to do more. Interior designers have a knack for maximizing the utility of these awesome pockets, but we want you to have some inspiration at your fingertips, which is why we're going to show you some really useful ideas.
Such windows are usually found in old buildings
Whether you need more storage, extra seating, or just some practical potential, we've got the solution for you, right here, so come in and take a look!
Types of bay windows for the kitchen
Although bay windows come in several styles, they all have one thing in common: they extend beyond the home's exterior wall. Overhang windows enhance the room with plenty of natural light and provide interesting architectural details. This type offers several benefits in the kitchen beyond their aesthetic appeal, including extra space, additional seating, and a convenient area for growing kitchen herbs.
Excellent opportunity to install a niche in the interior space
Traditional
A true bay window consists of three adjacent window panels protruding from the wall. The side windows are at an angle, and the middle one is parallel to the wall. The middle window is usually fixed. Each side comes in a sash or bi-fold style. The secluded window area in a bay window is usually used as a seat. Placing the kitchen table next to the bay window allows for built-in seating on one side.
Bay window niche
The niche has small side windows at an angle of 90 degrees to the middle one, effectively forming a rectangle. A niche may have one in the center or several central windows . They can be deeper than traditional bay windows. The interior is often used as a built-in bench for seating or storage.
These windows fill the kitchen with light.
Semicircular
This type of bay window creates a soft curve instead of sharp angles, with each window being identical. It is usually called 4-ray or 5-ray, depending on the quantity. Like a traditional bay window, the middle windows are fixed, but the side windows can still be opened and closed. They also have seats. Semicircular bay windows are commonly found in traditional style homes, while niches are more common in modern homes.
garden window
Garden windows are usually located directly behind the kitchen sink. This bay window is much smaller than the other three types. Instead of an inner seat, a garden bay window usually has a middle shelf. The lower ledge and shelf can accommodate small plants such as fresh herbs. The top of the garden window is covered with glass, providing additional light for plants. As with all types, the side windows usually open and close.
In green and white
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Features of organizing space
All kitchens in houses of the P-44 series, as mentioned above, have one design feature: there is a ventilation duct right at the front door. It protrudes forward, takes up useful space and interferes with the organization of the work triangle area. If there was a refrigerator instead, then planning the kitchen layout would be a piece of cake. A similar problem is solved simultaneously with the search for a place for the largest object - the refrigerator. Designers offer three options:
- Place the refrigerator in a corner near the window, so that there is a gap of 10 centimeters to the wall. It will allow you to fully open the door and place curtains in the gap, if the project provides for their presence.
- Place the refrigerator next to the box. Together they form a deep niche into which the sink fits well. This arrangement breaks the rule of the work triangle, but it allows you to organize a complex space.
- Place the refrigerator next to the box, install a tall pencil case against the wall of the refrigerator, and cover both items with plasterboard. The kitchen set will have to be moved towards the window and turned around, using the window sill. If you expand it, you get a full-fledged work area that can accommodate a sink.
Read also: Combining the kitchen with the hallway
Attention! If the kitchen area is 10.1 sq. meters, then the refrigerator is installed next to the door (if you look at it, then on the left side). The sink moves to the corner of the wall, and between the box and the sink there is space for a narrow dishwasher. The free box becomes part of the kitchen unit. To combine two objects, designers recommend installing narrow open shelves on the box, or sections with facades that duplicate the facades of the set. According to the regulations, it is allowed to place a microwave or hang a TV on the ventilation duct. The equipment is mounted on special brackets.
Advantages and disadvantages of a bay window
The bay window is one of the most expensive window installations for kitchens. While this shouldn't be a disadvantage since every kitchen needs windows, it can be important for those remodeling or building a new kitchen.
The increase in installation costs is largely due to their overall size and the design requirements to provide the correct level and support.
Classic style
Tip Make sure your contractor understands the budget, as well as the limitations of your home's renovations and whether the structure will support that type.
They provide a panoramic view, allow you to use external light, and also allocate more space in footage. Here are some pros and cons from the perspective of bay window installation experts.
Advantages. Adding value
Bay windows add elegance to a home. Whether they have a classic look or support modern features, bay windows are a guaranteed value adder. Bay windows will also add a little extra square footage to the overall size of the home, which will also raise the price.
Add elegance to the home
Adding space to the kitchen
Because bay windows are a protruding type of window, they often add up to a meter of window to an existing space.
The window base can be used as additional space for kitchen utensils, growing herbs, or for more stylish home decor.
They tend to be wider than a standard window and provide visually greater depth and width to the kitchen space.
Provide a panoramic view
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Increased natural light/ventilation
The size of bay windows not only visually enlarges the space, but also brings more natural light into the room. These windows also have overhead vents that let in fresh air. By eliminating direct access to wind, they simultaneously allow air to pass freely.
Panoramic view
Homeowners who have kitchens that overlook a wooded or beach landscape can benefit greatly from these types of windows. They add the perfect frame for relaxing and making the most of your kitchen.
Allows the use of external light
Flaws. Design features
When installing a bay window, precision is required. The structure must be supported throughout the installation. Steel supports must be used even during measurements. The journal bearing compartments must be fully supported both within and below the structure.
Homes often warp and sag as they age, and if a window is not installed properly, it can cause the window to fail.
Visually increase the space
Can't do it yourself
Some window installation projects can be done in-house or with minimal assistance from a contractor. Bay windows are more complex in that they require precise measurements and professional use of support beams and supporting structures. If even the smallest miscalculation is made, it guarantees disaster and additional costs out of your pocket to correct the problems.
Excessive natural light
While you may have just read about the benefits of bay windows providing wonderful natural light, there can be some problems here too.
Allows you to admire the view
If a window is installed with the wrong type of filter on the glass, it can greatly affect the presence of solar radiation in your home.
This can cause the internal temperature of the kitchen to change, putting more stress on your split system than necessary during the summer months. The same factor will help remove heat during the winter months. Although solar control glass is more expensive, it will show savings on utility bills.
Beautiful, bright kitchen
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Difficulties with decor
While bay windows offer more space to add your own style to the kitchen area, sometimes it can be difficult to choose the right decor.
Depending on the overall shape of your window and its arch, it may be difficult to add curtains or otherwise provide privacy. You may also need the services of a professional decorator for this.
White dining area
Selection of curtains and cornices
When choosing curtains for a bay window for a P44T kitchen, photos of which are posted below, you should take into account a number of nuances:
- You should not choose dark shades, because this will block the access to natural light;
- It is better to hang light curtains on the window, which will make the design of the room unobtrusive and pleasant, while heavy curtains will create a feeling of clutter;
- ordinary kitchen curtains for the P44T kitchen with a bay window can be replaced with blinds;
- other types of curtains that are ideal for a kitchen with a P44T bay window (photos are located below) are Roman or roller blinds, which harmoniously combine with curtains and tulle.
Also, when choosing curtains for a bay window, it is important not to forget about the features of the room where they will be located . So, there is always a lot of moisture, fat and other substances in the kitchen. Therefore, the material from which the curtains will be made must not fade, repel water, be easy to wash and not deform.
Attention! In P44T buildings, many designers recommend giving preference to light shades when decorating, but sometimes contrasting combinations can be used.
Today there are a lot of cornices for bay windows for different types and styles of premises. Aluminum products are often hung in the kitchen . Their advantage is that, due to their flexibility, they can repeat any shape. If metal cornices need to be hidden, then lambrequins can be used to cover the ledge.
Other available product options for decorating classic bay windows are rods made of metal or wood . They are attached to the walls using brackets. However, such curtain rods have disadvantages - the curtains can only be moved in a given area.
If the projection is non-standard, then it is better to use string cornices . They are a cable stretched in 2-3 rows. But such products have their own drawback - they cannot withstand heavy curtains.
Ideas for bay windows in the kitchen
Bay windows, as an architectural feature, often impress with their decorative possibilities. The expansive size and shape make them a blank canvas for all kinds of design accents. They are especially important for decorating the room behind the kitchen sink because they are located where you spend a lot of time. They are quite easy to accessorize to achieve visual charm and character . So, take a look at the list below and decide which of these ideas suits your home.
Live plants and herbs
Take advantage of plenty of natural light and use a bay window sill to grow and display all sorts of potted plants.
Spacious kitchen for a country house
Tip Choose plants with varying heights to give the grouping visual interest and use those that match the level of sunlight they will receive each day for optimal growth.
Harmonize your collection by displaying them in conceptual, colorful pots that match your decorating style and kitchen color scheme..
Frame your windows in lightweight rattan wicker shades for a more natural look. Fill the area with plants by adding a large, functional pot of aromatic kitchen herbs to the center of the arrangement to decorate your flower garden with practical style.
Tip By placing herbs on the kitchen windowsill, you can collect fresh herbs for cooking without leaving the kitchen.
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Pharmaceutical jars
Create a removable display in your kitchen drawer using clear medicine jars. Choose different sizes, shapes and heights to add interest to the arrangement. Change the contents depending on the season. In the fall, fill jars with raffia, dried leaves, and faux mini pumpkins.
It is difficult to choose accessories for such windows
Place faux berries and dried green holly in jars during the winter season, tying them with holiday ribbons . Spring jars can be accented with faux mini bird nests and resin eggs.
Tip Accent jars with dried flowers or artificial fruit in the summer. Add roman shades in earthy colors to the top of your windows to create a backdrop for different colors and themes.
Elegant candles
Accent an elegant white kitchen with a collection of white and cream candles on the bay window ledge behind the sink.
Tip Use white candlesticks in different styles and sizes. White will unify different styles for a luxurious look.
Gives elegance
At the top, place candle holders with electric candles that operate on a timer. The convenience and safety that upgraded battery-powered candles provide is especially suitable for the kitchen area . They can also add a soft nighttime glow to the kitchen, even when you're not in the room. Add an Ikea paper balloon on top for a soft and airy look. Add some decorative glass stones to a few candle holders for added interest.
Bare window
If you like the idea of a bare sketch, decorate the glass while maintaining your privacy with window film. Window film comes in a variety of colors, styles, and patterns. For example, use red window film with swirly lines or window film that resembles stained glass or etching. You don't need any special skills to install window film . Measure the window, cut out the window film and “insert” it into the bay window.
Solid window seating
Kitchen layout with bay window P-44T
In any kitchen there are two main zones - the working and dining areas. The kitchen area in a one-room apartment P-44T is about 7-8 meters, in a “kopeck piece” or “three ruble” - up to 13 square meters. The latter option allows you to organize not only cooking and eating areas, but also a sleeping place for one or two people.
Kitchen sets designed for the bay window area are more expensive than usual.
How to best plan your kitchen:
- Double-row placement of the set - the bay window here remains free, you can put a sofa, plants in tubs, and a dining table in it.
- L-shaped layout - covers the corner located closer to the door, the dining area is located against the opposite wall or in a ledge, free space is occupied by a sideboard or a TV on the console.
- U-shaped - best suited for a bay window kitchen. The dining area here is located behind the bar counter, on the right or left, most of the working area is in the ledge space.
- G-shaped - suitable for combined spaces, usually has a small bar counter.
U-shaped kitchen layout with bay window.
Bay window as a seating area
Bay windows have quite a bit of window overhang and extend out from the walls - in most cases this provides seating - a popular idea in modern decorating. They have been in the design world for a long time, but designers are still trying to make more unique, inspiring homes with them.
The right place to sit involves several factors:
- place of application;
- correct style;
- color combination.
French style
Kitchen window seats are a popular, cozy addition that can bring your dream kitchen to life, comfortably seating friends and family. And even on quieter days, you have a delightful and secluded corner for reading and relaxing, which will also become part of the open lifestyle. For a smart, practical and beautiful approach, check out these kitchen seating ideas.
Small and stylish armchairs
Yes, a substantial window seat that allows you to lazily catch up on a midday nap is impressive, but not all of us have enough kitchen space to skimp on such an extravagant addition. For those who save not only space, but also resources, this is a suitable solution for a small bay window with built-in storage drawers.
Helps you hide utensils you don't usually use
Not only will this give you a comfortable place to rest in the kitchen, but it will also help you hide utensils you don't usually use . It can also be used as a relaxing home area or for a small breakfast with the folding table.
A small window seat can also provide a nice contrast to the wall shelves and kitchen cabinetry.
Throwing pillows and fabric seating also bring a textural change to the space when wood, tiles and metallics dominate the space. Whether you use it for children or as a wonderful conversation nook, a small chair in the kitchen always comes in handy.
Fabric seating brings a textural change to a space
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Color accompaniment
Window seats are not only functional, you can use them to elevate the overall style.
Since most modern kitchens tend to be draped in neutral shades as well as lots of white, a window seat can easily fit into this scheme with bright seasonal colors.
Cozy eating area
Everything from the slipcover and pillows to the lighting above the window can easily be changed with the arrival of new seasons and trends to give your kitchen a fresh decor. This kitchen remodel idea is economical, convenient, and definitely one of the easiest to implement.
Modern approach
Kitchens increasingly act as spacious, family gathering spaces that also provide a transition zone between indoors and outdoors. A large window in the corner of the kitchen overlooking the backyard or wooden deck is now a more common solution in modern kitchens. From simple wooden window seats to luxurious designer designs that create the illusion of a room within a room, there are many ways you can achieve this.
In beige tones
Dinner Zone
Dining tables are never quite a good fit where you want them to be, requiring more floor space than you thought possible.
Advice Try installing it in a niche in the bay window, and you will have a pleasant bonus in the form of free square meters. You can even make a bench in the window to replace one of the chairs.
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Repair Tips
Before choosing a P44T kitchen design with a P44T bay window (photos of design options are located below), you should learn about the nuances regarding repairs. To make the kitchen an ideal, comfortable and beautiful place, you first need to develop a project.
Professionals begin planning by determining the location of the sink, stove and refrigerator . All these elements should be located in convenient areas close to each other. This will become a starting point and then it will be easier to mark the table, sofa, equipment and other interior items.
Attention! In order for the ledge to be combined with the design of the kitchen, it must be decorated in the same style with a harmonious combination of colors and shades.
Those who want to make a dining area in the bay window need to take care of relocating communications . Also, at the initial stage of repair work, it is necessary to raise the floor level, which will reduce the ceiling height. In this case, the headset will have to be made to order. And for convenience, you need to take care of placing compact and spacious cabinets and niches for storing kitchen utensils.
It is not recommended to place the sink and stove next to windows, as this is absolutely impractical . It’s also worth mentioning batteries, which cannot be transferred. The radiator cannot be covered with cabinets, because this will become an obstacle to air circulation, and the windows will constantly fog up, which can result in the formation of fungus.
That is why when installing a tabletop in the window sill area, you need to make sure there is a grate or hole under the surface. In addition, with this design option it will be necessary to carry out a complex installation of the ceiling hood.
Artificial lighting is an important nuance in renovating a kitchen with a ledge . So, if there is a dining area in the bay window, you can place a sconce on the wall. If an architectural element will become a place to relax, then it is better to choose a floor lamp or pendant lamp that diffuses light. When decorating a work area, preference should be given to two wall lamps located at the same distance from each other.
Also, when renovating a kitchen with a ledge, it is important to follow a number of rules:
- the floor and window must be insulated so that the room is not damp and cold in winter;
- It is advisable to choose a compact sliding table that can always be expanded when guests arrive;
- the shape of the sofa, table, and ceiling should follow the shape of the bay window, which will visually highlight the area in the room.
Curtains for bay windows
There are several places in our homes that for some reason seem very difficult to decorate. Yes, bay windows may seem like a great idea with the natural light they let into a room, but when it comes to finding a cover for them, you may be tempted to leave them bare.
Reception area
How to choose a frame for bay windows so that it matches the window and does not lose light? It turns out there are a few ideas that won't look like they came out of a mansion from last century. Here are some ideas to thoughtfully decorate your kitchen windows:
- Bamboo curtains are a popular choice for window coverings right now. Use one roll per tier to save extra space and give you complete privacy. They will make a great addition to your kitchen window.
- Patterned Roman blinds are another great idea for a kitchen bay window. Choosing a playful pattern is an unexpected way to bring some fun into your space, and since you have to buy curtains anyway, you have the opportunity to get creative.
Modern style
- Tiered curtains give the room a touch of luxury - the perfect opportunity for sophisticated design. Instead of settling for white Roman shades, frame the corners with long curtains in your favorite fabric. This will add the addition you were looking for.
- For a more traditional approach to window treatments, consider choosing practical blinds. They will help you adjust the amount of light and privacy you need.
- Venetian blinds are a smart idea for kitchens with variety including metal, plastic and wood. They can be tilted to provide more or less light and additional privacy, and are easy to clean. For a green corner idea in a bay window, vertical blinds will provide a practical result but may look a little dated. Roller shutters are often chosen in favor of a modern look.
Kitchen windows require a light hand when it comes to curtains. Heavy, dark curtain panels don't work on most kitchen windows as they are too formal and block valuable light.
Some homeowners choose to leave their kitchen windows completely bare, while others decorate them. Instead of leaving them empty, you can dress them up with stained glass or even architectural details.
