If you have a bay window in your house, you probably know that it can improve the look of your room. They bring in lovely natural light while also allowing views of the neighbourhood. They also create a cross-breeze when they’re open.
But sometimes, bay windows can be seen as an unnecessary waste of space in your tiny HDB flat. Many homeowners aren’t sure what to do with this design element, and they tend to leave the space unused or under-utilised. Our Livspace designers are here to help! We can come up with smart ideas that transform a boring bay window into a comfy and functional area for your home!
There are a plethora of ways to make the most of your bay window area with a little planning. How you design or decorate it is ultimately determined by a few things, such as the window’s size and position. You may use your this area for more than just aesthetic purposes by adding practicality. Here are 13 modern bay window design ideas, as suggested by Livspace interior designers.
How to Make Optimum Use of Bay Window Space
1. Change It Into a Cosy Workspace
You don’t have a dedicated home office? It’s no problem. Our Livspace interior designers suggest putting your desk and chair in front of a bay window. Feng Shui experts also support this idea as they advise you to work with your back to the inside of the room. You can also see who is approaching you, which gives you a sense of security. However, remember to install window curtains or shields to block the sun’s harsh beams.
2. Change It Into a Reading Nook/Bay Library
Modern bay windows offer a terrific way to take in the scenery, and with a little effort, you can turn them into your own personal retreat. Livspace interior designers recommend the bay window design idea of creating a cosy reading area by adding a couple of chairs or a custom built-in bench with storage. You can also add cushions and beautiful pillows to make this area colourful.
Want some more design inspirations for your modern home? Read this: 15 Hacks for Modern House Design Inspired by Livspace Homes
3. Create a Spot to Drink Coffee or Wine
This bedroom bay window idea is worth checking out. This seating area provides a spot to drink coffee or wine, read, or relax in this peacefully elegant bedroom. It can also be a chair next to the bed. You can use gauzy drapes to cover it. Light can travel through the gauzy white drapes while maintaining closeness and seclusion. Simple white upholstery gives a relaxing environment without appearing cluttered.
4. Create a Breakfast Counter Next to It
Do you have a kitchen near a bay window? If yes, this bay window design idea is worth trying. Whether you construct a seat or simply position a breakfast counter near it, it becomes a fantastic spot for a breakfast nook. If you already have a formal dining room, turn this place into a casual coffee-drinking area. When choosing furniture, just make sure that the window’s attractiveness isn’t obscured too much.
5. Place a Storage Bench-Cum-Window Seat
Those of us who are short on both seating and storage are well aware of the value that practical furniture, such as storage benches, can provide to a space. To make the most of your bay window design, consider adding a cushioned bench with built-in storage or a bench with baskets beneath it. Add a blanket and throw pillows, as well as a side table for drinks or decor, for an extra dose of comfort.
Also read: How to Create a Walk-In Wardrobe in Your Bedroom
6. Create a Personalised Focal Point
You can personalise your bay window to add comfort to it in your own way. As you can see in this picture, our Livspace homeowner has transformed it into a personal reading or coffee space. Just throw some cushions, plants and a blanket! You can personalise it in your way by experimenting with some photo frames, decor elements etc. as small bay window ideas. You can also use your bay window as the TV wall design.
7. Dining With a View
What do you think about dining with a view? You can convert your bay window to a smart dining space. The window space can be used as the additional seating space and can replace chairs.
8. Raise the Floor by the Bay Window to Accommodate a Sleeping Area
In many condo bedrooms, the bay window takes up previous floor space. Our Livspace designers can help by extending this area to the sleeping area. The height of the bed is kept the same as the window height, and to achieve that, the Livspace designers have installed a platform. The storage unit is also kept next to bed to meet the storage needs of the family.
9. Modern Bay Window Ideas: Use It As a Bed for Pets
Got any pets at home? Then use your bay window as their bed or a viewing platform to keep them from getting bored. Our Livspace designers installed a platform against it and made it a bed for the pets. You can also use this idea for your pets and decorate it with pictures and frames.
10. Add Wooden or Sheer Blinds
Add a layer of wooden blinds or sheer curtains or both on your window if direct light is too much for your room but you don’t want to close your curtains and shut out all the light. When it’s really bright outside, just open the main curtains; if you want even more light, you can easily open the sheer ones as well.
11. Roll in a Bar Shelf Next to It
Consider putting a bar cart or bar shelf next to your bay window if it’s in your kitchen, dining room, or living room for extra storage. You might utilise the cart to store stemware and drinks in a common area, or conceal storage with a few containers or baskets that match the rest of your decor.
Also read: Extreme Kitchen Makeovers That Will Inspire You to Get One Too
12. Change It to a Kids Play Zone
If you have a grand bay window, it is an ideal spot for you kids to play. It will give them the natural light and keep the area well-ventilated. Just throw a couple of cushions, mattress or rugs in the area and play with your children. It can also be an ideal spot for you to sit with your friends and gossip over a sip of coffee.
13. Hang a Hammock Next to It
Looking for a more quirky way to unwind? Install a hammock or a bubble-swing next to your window for a wonderful view of the outdoors, if you’re ready for a DIY job. To put hooks on the walls, you will need a stud finder, a drill, and some hardware. It is also an ideal location for a fabric swing suspended from the ceiling. Sit there in the evenings, sip a coffee and relax!
How Can Livspace Help You?
We hope you enjoyed these modern bay window ideas for your home! If you want to implement any of these design ideas, then look no further. Book an online consultation with Livspace today. Delivering safe home interiors has been our No. 1 priority. Click here to find out how interiors are being delivered following all safety protocols.
FAQs
1. What Is a Bay Window?
A bay window is a window area that extends outward from a room’s main walls to create a bay in a space. It is often referred to as an oriel or oriel window. Early English Renaissance buildings are said to be the origin of bay windows.
2. What Is a Bay Window HDB?
A bay window in an HDB is a window that is raised at least 0.5 metres above the ground. It is a concrete ledge. You can use multiple ideas for storage or decoration to add to your home’s decor and functionality.
3. Why Do Developers Build Bay Windows?
A bay window’s function is to let in more light and air than a normal one. It also provides visual relief to our high-density living area. It also increases the saleable strata area.
