The Complete Guide to Bay Window Blinds and Shutters

Bay windows have a rich history dating back to the medieval era. Originally designed for function, they projected outward from the building, providing additional floor space, increased light across the whole window area, and improved ventilation. Over time, they evolved from simple openings to intricate designs, becoming a symbol of architectural elegance.

There are several types of bay windows, each with its unique characteristics:

• Box Bay Windows: A square or rectangular shape that projects outward from the building. It is a classic design often seen in Victorian and Edwardian homes, and recreating a Victorian bay window shutters look is very on trend.
• Bow Windows: These windows create a curved projection, offering a softer, more rounded appearance compared to box bay windows. These curved bay windows are what most people think of as a bay window.
• Oriel Windows: Oriel windows are supported by brackets or corbels and are often found on upper floors, projecting from the building façade.

Bay window blinds offer a range of benefits that address common challenges:

• Precision fit: Bespoke blinds can be tailored to the specific angles and dimensions, providing a precise fit and minimising light bleed.
• Versatile light control: Blinds offer versatile light control options. Adjusting the slats with certain blinds, or utilising layering with sheer fabrics under standard fabrics allows you to regulate the amount of light entering the room while maintaining privacy.
• Style options: Bay window blinds come in various materials, colours, and styles, allowing you to choose a design that complements your interior décor.
• Flexible operation: Motorised blinds offer convenient operation, allowing you to adjust the blinds with the touch of a button, by app or voice command with compatible devices, even in hard-to-reach windows.

When furnishing bay windows, several considerations can optimise the functionality and aesthetics of the space:

• Light-bleed prevention: Choose window coverings with features that limit light bleed, such as blackout options or well-fitted shutters.
• Functionality for different types: Consider the functionality needed for each bay window type. For instance, bow windows may benefit from flexible, curved tracks, while box windows can be enhanced with shutters.
• Coordinating styles: Ensure that the chosen window coverings complement the overall style of your home. This is especially crucial for bay windows that serve as focal points within the room.

Pleated blinds provide insulation and energy efficiency. Their slimline design makes them suitable for bay windows with limited space. They're also an excellent choice for south-facing rooms as some are available with a specialist coating to reflect the rays of the sun.

Simple and slimline Roller blinds come in a wealth of colours, patterns and fabrics. They're a great choice if you want to layer at your bay window or if you've got restricted height as the cassette the fabric rolls into is quite narrow.

These shutters have top and bottom panels that can be opened independently, providing complete flexibility in light control and privacy with the option to enjoy both at the same time at different parts of your window. You can mix louvre with non-louvre too. It's like having the best of two shutter styles combined in one.

Often thought of as the ultimate shutter style, solid shutters can look stunning in a bay window. They definitely require expertise in installation due to the placement in the frame but they're a real boon on a cold winter's night - or even a hot summer day as they're surprisingly beneficial at keeping heat out as much as in. This style is only available as hardwood shutters.