Expert Tips for Dressing Bay Windows: Why Experience Matters

/

Bay and bow windows are a striking architectural feature found in many homes throughout Savannah, Bluffton, and the Low Country. Their curved or angular projections add natural light, expansive views, and beautiful character to a space—but when it comes to window treatments, these unique windows often leave homeowners feeling overwhelmed.

At Savannah Window Fashions, we’ve received countless inquiries about how to properly and beautifully dress bay and bow windows. The short answer? There is no one-size-fits-all solution—and experience matters.

What’s the Difference Between Bay and Bow Windows?

Though they look similar, bay and bow windows are structurally different:

  • Bay windows typically consist of three windows arranged in an angular configuration—often a large center window flanked by two smaller windows

  • Bow windows usually feature four or more windows, forming a softer, more curved appearance.

Both styles bring in ample light and enhance a home’s architectural charm, especially in historic neighborhoods like Ardsley Park or historic downtown Savannah. But their complexity calls for custom solutions—not off-the-shelf treatments.

Why Are Bay and Bow Windows So Challenging to Dress?

These windows can create beautiful nooks and architectural focal points, but they pose a few technical challenges:

  • Angles and curves require precise measurements—there is no room for error.

  • Mounting surfaces can be limited or irregular, especially in older homes with original casings.

  • Layering treatments—like shades plus drapery—requires thoughtful planning to ensure clearance and functionality.

Mistakes with deductions, hardware projection, or fabric weight can result in costly delays or do-overs. That’s why projects like these should only be handled by a professional window treatment partner with deep technical knowledge.

Our Favorite Solutions for Bay and Bow Windows

Here are some of the most successful and functional ways we help our clients dress these unique windows:

Treating Each Window Individually with Shades

Roman shades, woven wood shades, or light-filtering roller shades mounted inside each window can be a beautiful and functional solution. This approach:

  • Maintains the architectural integrity of the window

  • Allows for flexible light control

  • Works well with trim details common in historic Savannah homes

If privacy or light control is the primary concern, this is often our first recommendation.

Drapery Panels on Custom-Bent Hardware

Framing the entire bay window with drapery panels adds softness and elegance. However, standard hardware simply won’t do. We often help our clients select custom-bent drapery hardware to follow the curve or angles of the window precisely.

Custom hardware ensures:

  • Seamless fit and function

  • Proper bracket placement (a big deal with heavier fabrics)

  • Clean, tailored lines—especially important when dressing large windows in grand rooms

Whether you're designing a sitting room in primary bedroom or formal dining room, the addition of curved or angled hardware takes the design to the next level—and it’s a perfect opportunity to include motorization if desired.

Adding a Top Treatment

Top treatments like valances can be a great way to:

  • Conceal hardware

  • Add a decorative element to the room

  • Create continuity across multiple windows

  • Pleats can be used to visually balance out windows of different sizes

  • This tailored valance with inverted pleats adds color and pattern to a casual seating area without compromising the view

The Importance of Precision (and Why It’s Best Left to the Pros)

Baywindows are not a DIY project. The combination of angles, projections, and often inconsistent wall surfaces means every measurement and fabrication detail must be precise. As a full-service custom workroom, Savannah Window Fashions takes care of all the details—from site measurements and hardware sourcing to fabrication and professional installation.

We do more than just fabricate what’s requested—we partner with our clients to ensure the design, function, and installation are all aligned with their vision and the demands of the space.

Serving Savannah, Bluffton, and Beyond

Whether you’re restoring a home in the Historic District or building a custom retreat in Colleton River, your windows deserve the expertise and care that only a dedicated window treatment partner can provide.

Savannah Window Fashions has over 30 years of experience managing window treatment projects for homes with distinctive architectural features. We understand the nuances involved in projects of this scale and complexity and are proud to serve homeowners, designers, and builders throughout Savannah, Bluffton, Richmond Hill, Skidaway Island, Hilton Head, and Tybee Island.

Let's Talk About Your Windows

If you’ve been staring at your bay windows wondering how to dress them, we’re here to help. Our tailored approach ensures your treatments will not only look stunning, but also function exactly as you need them to.