8 Types of Bay Window Styles

Bay windows are a classic feature that bring both beauty and elegance to any home. What you may not know is that there are several different styles of bay windows, each offering its own distinct look and benefits. These include:

Traditional Bay Window
Box Bay Window
Bowed Bay Window
Polygonal Bay Window
Cascading Bay Window
Oriel Bay Window
Circle Bay Window
Fixed Bay Window

If you’re remodeling or building a new home, you’ll need to decide on which type of bay window you want for your space. That’s why it’s important to familiarize yourself with each style to see which one best fits your design goals.

We’ll cover the differences between each bay window style and their pros and cons to help you choose the best option for your home. But first, let’s take a quick look at what a bay window is.

What is a Bay Window?

There are several different types of windows classified by their shape, function, and location. A bay window is unique because, unlike most windows that feature a single pane, it’s made up of three windows set together to create a distinctive look.

A bay window protrudes out from the home, forming a rounded shape. The middle window is usually an inoperable picture window, while the two side windows are usually operable casement windows or double hung windows.

The two side windows are angled toward the center window, creating a slight curve in the wall. The angle of these windows can range from 30 to 90 degrees, depending on the bay window's overall design. The degree of the angle determines the style of the bay window, such as a box bay or circle bay window.

The unique architectural design of bay windows creates an extended area within the home. This area can be used for a wide range of functions, such as a cozy reading nook or a well-lit space to house your indoor potted plants.

History of Bay Windows

No matter what the space is used for, bay windows create an elegant design feature on both the interior and exterior of the home. They’re a classic, timeless design, dating all the way back to ancient Rome. However, the concept of bay windows fully emerged during the English Renaissance in the late 17th century.

As they evolved, bay windows became luxurious architectural details with ornate detailing and stained glass window panes. They were a sign of wealth among the upper class, used to create an extravagant display of art.

Bay windows are a beautiful design feature that has stood the test of time, remaining popular through centuries of architectural styles. No matter the changing trends, bay windows are seen as a fashionable choice for homes across the United States.

Whether they’re dressed down to fit a craftsman style home or finished with magnificent detailing for a Victorian manor, bay windows bring both beauty and natural light to any space. Even today, bay windows remain a charming feature, easily customized to complement your home’s unique design.

📏For tips on getting the perfect fit for your bay or bow windows, check out our article on how to measure windows. It's an easy step-by-step guide to make sure your new window fits perfectly!

8 Popular Bay Window Styles to Boost Your Home’s Charm

Now that we’ve gone over what a bay window is, let’s talk about the different bay window styles available. We’ll describe how they look, function, and their pros and cons.

1. Traditional Bay Window

A traditional bay window is also known as a canted bay window or a full bay window. These are the classic bay windows most people envision when they think of a bay window.

Traditional bay windows feature large, straight-facing picture windows in the center, flanked by two smaller windows angled on either side. These side windows are often operable casement or double-hung windows, though they can also be fixed.

This type of bay window is typically found on the first floor of a building, with its architectural detailing varying based on the home's style.

Pros

Popular choice for Victorian homes
Classic and traditional design
Brings more natural light into the space
Perfect for creating a cozy nook

Cons

Expensive professional window installation required
Has to be installed on the first floor

2. Box Bay Window

With a box bay window, the two side windows on either side of the central window are 90-degree, flat windows. This creates a box-like structure that extends out from the house.

Box bay windows vary in size, but are typically smaller and narrower than the other bay window styles. They can be used to create more interior space, like a traditional bay window, or they can serve a more functional purpose, like a garden window.

A garden window is encased in four window panels with the top part slanted at a downward angle for rain run-off. All four sides of the garden window are glass to maximize natural light.

Garden windows come with a deep-set shelf where you can place house plants, kitchen herbs, and other items within the window. Because their design captures an abundance of sunshine, they create a great environment for growing plants. While they’re most commonly found behind the kitchen sink, box bay windows are versatile and can be placed in any room.

Pros

Less expensive bay window option
Small enough to sit above the kitchen sink
Can be used as a garden window for house plants
Larger box bay windows are great for a window seat

Cons

Requires custom replacement windows if damaged
Requires a custom-sized opening in the wall
Not as architecturally detailed as other bay window options

3. Bowed Bay Window

A bowed bay window has a more rounded, curved appearance compared to a traditional or box bay window. The term "bowed bay window" is sometimes used to describe a bowed window, which is similar to a bay window but technically a different window structure.

We'll take a closer look at bow windows later and explain how they differ from bay windows. For now, just keep in mind that a "bowed bay window" usually refers to a bow window.

Pros

Larger and more curved than traditional bay windows
Abundance of natural light
Creates additional interior space
More airflow than other types of bay windows
Perfect for large, open floor plans

Cons

Expensive to install
Heavier and harder to install
Requires at least 80 inches of exterior wall space

4. Polygonal Bay Window

A polygonal bay window is technically a bow window, as it features five or more windows, creating a more angular look. As you might imagine, five or more angled windows extending out from the home create an extravagant architectural look. These windows can wrap around the corner of a home or serve as the main feature in a large, open living area.

Pros

Increases ventilation with an operable window
Increases natural light
Perfect for large homes with open floor plans
Creates a central design feature

Cons

Takes up significant exterior wall space
May be too large for some homes
Expensive and difficult to install

5. Cascading Bay Window

If you're looking for a gentler curve in your bay windows, consider cascading bay windows. In this style, the two side windows are set at a slight angle and don't extend far from the home, creating a softer, more subtle appearance.

Cascading bay windows are typically in smaller rooms or bedrooms because they don’t require as much exterior wall space. On the inside, cascading bay windows don’t add as much extra space due to their subtle design—it’s often just a large shelf in the extended area. However, the overall impact can still be quite noticeable, depending on the size of the windows used.

Pros

Perfect if you want a subtle bay window
Ideal for smaller rooms
Adds natural light to the space
Great space for an extended window shelf
Less expensive and easier to install

Cons

Doesn’t create as much storage or interior space
Not as prominent as other bay windows

6. Oriel Bay Window

An oriel bay window is always located on an upper story, never on the first floor. Since it extends outward from an upper level, it requires additional structural support, often provided by decorative brackets or corbels. This added detail makes an oriel window a striking architectural feature in the home.

This is the oldest bay window configuration, making it ideal for traditional and historic-style homes and buildings.

Pros

Perfect for Victorian or historic-style homes
Beautiful exterior wall appearance
Increases ventilation and natural light

Cons

Expensive and difficult to install
Difficult to clean and maintain
Requires professional window replacement installation if damaged

7. Circle Bay Window

Circle bay windows are similar to polygonal bay windows in that there are usually more than three window panels. As such, they are technically a type of bow window, rather than a bay. Circle bay windows have a more rounded design that provides a classic, elegant look.

This type of bay or bow window configuration is typically a large and distinct architectural feature of the home. They usually have smaller transom windows above the picture windows or casement windows.

Pros

Large windows and additional transoms create abundant natural light
Increased ventilation if window panes open
Historic and elegant design
Perfect for large homes with open floor plans

Cons

One of the most expensive bay window options
Difficult to install
Not suitable for small homes

8. Fixed Bay Window

A fixed bay window can be any type of bay window style so long as the windows are inoperable. Fixed windows provide an unobstructed view of the outside, making them ideal for scenic overlooks.

Comparatively, bay windows with an operable casement window or double hung windows have window screens. While they provide more ventilation, the view isn’t as clear due to the screen.

Pros

Unobstructed views
Less maintenance
Longer life-span

Cons

Can’t open for ventilation

What is the Difference Between Bay and Bow Windows

Bay and bow windows are extremely similar. In fact, bow windows are often referred to as bay windows. They both extend out from the home and are often elaborate architectural designs.

The difference between the two comes down to the number of windows. Bay windows consist of three windows—one flat window in the center and two angled windows on the sides. Bow windows, however, have four to eight windows, creating a more curved shape compared to bay windows.

Both window types are beautiful and add natural light and ventilation to the home. Bay windows are typically less expensive, easier to install, and don’t take up as much exterior wall space.

Bow windows are usually more prominent, and require sufficient floor and exterior wall space to be installed. Bow windows are more expensive and harder to install than bay windows, but they’re ideal if you’re looking for a grand, curved window feature in your home.

Brighten Your Home with the Beauty of a Bay Window

A bay bow window brings beauty, natural light, and improved ventilation to your home.

Whether you’re remodeling or building a new home, this window type is highly worth considering for your space. No matter which style you choose, bay windows will only add to your home’s comfort, charm, and elegance.

Speaking of remolding, Rustica is the top online destination for custom designer doors and windows. Check out our selection of high-quality barn doors, glass storm doors, a French patio door, entry doors, and more for your next project. With a wide range of styles and finishes, you're sure to find the perfect fit to complement your home's design.