I recently had a chat with an old client who struggled with dressing her bay windows and asked me for advice. She didn’t want to hire a designer to do fancy swags or ornate tops. She wanted simple panels to go with the rest of the house.
“I want the curtains that open and close, not just dust collectors”, she said.
Then she confessed that a proverbial handyman came along. You know the one. He only had thirty minutes for a “small job.” He put a rod across the flat portion of the wall ignoring the bay. Done. It’s covered forever. Oh, no! After all the money she paid as an upcharge the beautiful bay is blocked and the room doesn’t look larger as she hoped! Oops.
How about using a bay window curtain rod and install it inside the bay window?
With so many windows’ hardware companies competing you can have curved or metered bay window curtain rod of any color, style, and price. Now you can dress your bow or bay windows for a fraction of a price that your mother used to pay for all the custom swags and jabots. Well, maybe not a fraction. They still can be expensive, but just be careful if you are on a budget.
There are two things to think about when you choose curved or a metered and angled bay window curtain rod.
They are:
- Color, finish, and material to use.
- Rods and poles resources to trust.
Design and Color: Bay Window
Bay window is a generic term for all protruding window constructions with angles, regardless of height. The most common inside angles are 90, 135 and 150 degrees. They increase the flow of natural light into a room making a room look larger.
Wouldn’t it be a shame to cover these beautiful bay windows above?
Instead, a sleek and thin rod was bent and metered. This way you can cozy up by the bay window while savoring your latte or a martini.
If you don’t want to block the view outside
Bay window rod is selected to blend with the furniture. Nothing distracts from the gorgeous view outside. Earth tones and comfortable seating are designed for a heart to heart conversations around the table. I’d never want to leave this wonderful spot! But if the homeowners want more privacy the continuous bay curtains rod provides for cozy evenings with the family.
Here the bay window rod is darker and it works with the end table color. The curtains have a softer look as they are decorated with a pretty trim. Simple holdbacks hold the curtains in place when desired. Airy blue fabric color compliments the blush color of the walls. Heavenly!
Gold metal rod color compliments the light teal color of the drapery fabric. It works great with the traditional spool chair legs with gold as well as a rust color ottoman. The bay window curtains are fully functional. Everything works in this room including a heavier fabric for the draperies. Perhaps, when the curtains are closed they do provide maximum light control. I’d see myself reading a book to a little person in a small chair late at night.
Gold metal rod color compliments the light teal color of the drapery fabric. It works great with the traditional spool chair legs with gold as well as a rust color ottoman. The bay window curtains are fully functional. Everything works in this room including a heavier fabric for the draperies. Perhaps, when the curtains are closed they do provide maximum light control. I’d see myself reading a book to a little person in a small chair late at night.
Design and Color: Bow Window
A bow window is a curved bay window. Bow windows are designed to create space by projecting beyond the exterior wall of a building and to provide a wider view They typically combine four or more casement windows, which join together to form an arch.
This is a sketch of a bow window from the outside. As you can see there are no visible angles but rather a continuous curved line.
What a gorgeous sitting area by the bow window! The curved rod is bent but it is so thin, almost invisible. The rod is mounted with special brackets to the ceiling rather than the wall to avoid the drapery trapping. As a result, the windows will be opened and closed effortlessly.
Design and Color: Arched Window
An arch window (also known as a radius window) creates a dramatic effect in both contemporary and traditional homes. An arch window can be tall like a casement window or wide like an awning window.
The rustic, country mood of this kitchen is complemented by a superbly executed window valance that is mounted on an arched rod. The design is both creative and simple. The valance dresses the window but allows for a beautiful country view outside.
I think this arched window curtain on the rod is less successful than others. It covers beautiful window almost completely. I’d prefer a more sheer fabric instead of a short panel. Yes, the pattern plays with the mosaics and the cabinets. However, IMO the elements would show better if the curtain was more simple and airy.
Bay Windows, Bow Windows, and Arched Windows Rods and Poles Resources
- Continental Window Fashions is an online company. They can bend wrought iron rods of different styles, finishes, and diameters. You can choose round, rope, twist, hammered rods depending on your room style. But if you don’t find what you’re looking for, they also distribute other companies’ products. You’ll need a designer to place an order for you.
2.Ona Drapery Hardware is a domestic quality manufacturer of windows hardware since 1962. Everything is made locally in Boulder, Colorado. They offer over 50 finishes for every taste and style.
3. Orion Ironworks has several exotic options for curved rods as part of their Tropical Collection. I worked with them and was quite happy with their service but your designer has to specify everything to the dot.
4. Le Fer Forge – in addition to regular and curved rods, the company is manufacturing quality drapery hardware for outdoors. You don’t want a bay window curtain rod to rust, right? So, they use specially coated metals to solve this issue.
If you ever need help with your bay windows or arched windows, please write me a note here and I’ll be glad to answer any questions. Also, check out my post on arched windows if you want more inspiration and crave something different for your own windows. Please post your questions here below. I’ll be happy to help you!
Hi Marina, I have been trying to find a curved rod for our 5 panel bay window. Do you think any of the companies you listed would be able to make one for me? I was thinking just a black metal curved rod. I will attach a photo. Not sure how to make a template but maybe they would be able to help me?? Any information you can offer on how to go about this would be very much appreciated. Thank you so much!
Hi Beth,Orion Iron Works can do it. Here is their site: https://www.ironartbyorion.com/orion-collection/drapery-hardware/3d-drapery-hardware
As far as template goes, all you need is take the measurements that they require. I hope this helps.
We have three windows that give a bay window effect. I wanted to change the curtains for a long time. Finally found a product that made curtain rods work. Happy with the outcome.
Hi Marina,
We have a charming bow window in our new babies room… issue is that we need some sort of blackout curtain so that we can get the little nugget to sleep there during the day. I have attached photos, but I think we were hoping to have a two panel black out curtain that we could then leave open when she is not sleeping! I have included pictures below.
One of my main questions is how we would order a rod for a Bow window– are they standard in their curvature? If not, how would i measure the curvature for specs?
Thank you thank you for your thoughts/expertise!
Hi Molly,
I know exactly what it’s like with a little one! To order for a curving rod you can make a template out of paper showing the exact angle of the curving. Just trace the ceuling lineon that paper or measure the corner of the curving. for my little angel I made black out lining curtains- the fabric is just usual fabric but the lining is blackout. I open and close them all the time. She sleeps well.
Marina
Hello- we have large 5 bay windows in our bedroom. We need full length blackout drapes for sleeping. But we really want only 2 stacks on the ends for optimal openness during the day. Is it possible for the curtains to split in half and function on a curved rod with larger stacks on each end? They would have to flow easily to be manually pulled morning and night.
Is this possible? Do you have any recommended products for the rod choices?
Thanks so much!
We are rehanging our curtains/drapery to update and let more light in. We have bay window affect and a connectors to make continuous rod. We followed suggestion of rod 1-3” from ceiling, but the windows are much lower and it doesn’t look right. Where do you suggest hanging the rods?
Yes, for a bay window it is different. If your ceilings are 8-9 feet you can put the rods between the ceiling and the window line. If they are taller, 6-8 inches from the window is good enough.
I have a bay (vinyl) windows in my kitchen. Why type of rod do you recommend? I read somewhere that the vinyl cannot be drilled into:-( I really want that continue look of like 1 panel that curves around. Any ideas? Would appreciate advice. Thank you! (by the way, I can include a photo if it’ll help)
Hi,
It is hard to say. Can you post a couple of pictures please. Thank you
Hi Martha,
I moved into a Spanish style home last Nov. and have been looking for curtain ideas and haven’t had much luck. In the picture you will see wrought iron on the outside so I was thinking of having an arched wrought iron rod look for a very reasonable price. This is a dining room and I have one bedroom and an office with the same windows to cover. The dining room and bedroom need to be able to close when in there. Any suggestions you would be greatly appreciated.
Hi!:) I was really hoping you knew of some ideas for my Bay Windows too… there’s a home being built behind us now and my husband is nagging me to do something on these windows but I’m so nervous lol please help!
Ps i need the cheapest possible idea. Money is beyond tight right now:/
Marina, we moved into a new (old) 1987 house and I would like to update the window treatments. There is a large bay window with a door and another window next to it. There is a very heavy valance that covers the top window, and blinds on the lower windows. Would it look okay to just put up long curtains?
Hi Julie,
Long curtains always work. But if you want more feedback, please send me pictures of the room. marinaklima@mydecoratingtips.com Thank you
Hey Marina,
Can you please please please give me some sort of idea on what to do with my bay window? It just faces the neighbors yard so I would like some sort of privacy added and also it’s my dining room so I don’t think adding a cushion would make any sense! The wood is faded so I don’t know if I should try staining it? I’m lost. Please help! Unfortunately, it doesn’t look like I have the option of attaching a picture.
Hi Marina,
I really enjoyed your article and learned a lot. I have been looking for a rod for my bay window in my bedroom and have had no luck. I have attached a picture, as you can see I have little room on one side and ample room on the other. My windows are 53” and for some reason most side rods are only 35”. I’m only putting up curtains because the sun comes in and wakes me in the morning and that will be a sitting area and I think it would be cozier. Any suggestions? Thank you for your help, Rochelle
Hi Rochelle,
Sorry, I was working in a medical office. Weird times. If you still have this question, I’m willing to help now! I will send you email from my personal inbox. Then please send me photos. I will reply as soon as I get them. Thanks for your patience.
I sent an earlier message about bay window with sliding door. I have attached a picture
Hi Joane,
I didn’t see you image attached, sorry.
From what you described it won’t look silly at all. It’s common to have a sliding door treatment different from other windows.
See the image attached here.
here is an example
So in order to order any of these items you have to have a designer?
No, not at all. I’m just giving my insights. That’s all. You can order any of that on Amazon or other sites. Let me know which one you are looking at and I’ll tell you where to get it.
I sent you an e-mail after I did a special research for you. Please check it out.
Mobile home master bedroom bay window with built in dresser. At what height to hang curtains. They are light grey print sheer in the middle with soft very white solid on each end as needed a base. Have heard the taller or closer to ceiling the bigger the room.
Hi Catherine,
Could you send any pictures of that window? Thanks
Thank you for sharing your ideas. You seem like a very experienced designer. I have a rounded bay of windows as showing in my picture.I want to utilize the existing posts on the top and do a valance all way around. Do you know where i can get that type of valances? If you have other design ideas to decorate there, would love to hear your opinion.
Hi Hyo,
What a beautiful room! Amazing! I did some research for you and found some ideas. See enclosed pictures. please let m know where you live- zip code and I will check to see what window professionals I know in the area.
Hi and thanks for letting us contact you with window treatment questions.
I have a bay window with 6 windows but it doesn’t go to the floor so long draperies are out. It has a large, wooden sill that we have a collection of antique duck decoys on so I can’t have pooled fabric, either. I really want fabric so I can take them down and launder. I live the idea of using a rod of some type to match our decor but im so perplexed about what type of curtain also. The rod, The type if curtain… heres my dilemma. Can you please give me some suggestions?
Hi Kara,
I can help you but I need to see the room. Could you make pictures from all different sides of the room and post them. Then I will be able to advise you!
I have a large bay window and I’m on a budget. The poles I have found online have center poles that reach 84inches I need 110 inches. Should I use a flexible curtain track. I am lost!
Hi Nick, please see my detailed answer above about the same subject.
I love the shiny brass rod and seafoam color draperies you show above. I would like to use the same color rod. Do you think i should just buy a rod and spray paint it or do you think the paint will come off with lots of use? I intend on using draperies made with 2 inch grommets. I would buy a shiny brass rod but can find one. Any ideas? This application will be used in my dining room and the windows are in the shape of a 4 sided U. I hope you understand what I mean. The rod will have to have 3 bends in it. I was going to use a motorized rod until I figured out the pricing, over $500 and the gal I spoke to said they don’t like to put in more than 2 bends. Why I don’t know but that’s their limit. If I went with 2 rods with only 1 bend in each and have the 2 rods meet in the middle, I could get around it but then my price goes up even further so I give up on that idea. Also I want to mention, I don’t want to have my son and husband opening and closing the draperies with their hands, I hope you know why so I won’t have to say, haha. I understand I can get a wand opener somewhere. Do you know where? Will I need to sew it to each side of a center split set of draperies or do they just hang on the rod? I hope you see these questions soon as I need to get these ordered. We live in Alaska so I need to get some draperies hung up soon or we might freeze. I have a son who is an electrician and he bends conduit all the time. I could have him make me a rod and spray paint it if only I could figure out the other components: the brackets and finials, if need be. HELP ME DECIDE PLEASE….Thank you, Debra
Hi Debra,
I actually went shopping for you and found some solutions 🙂
Problems:
1. Bendable rod. Umm, this is hard. If you want a custom bended metal rod, those things are expensive. I am usually ordering them custom from Orion Ironsworks, and they charge me for bending of their products, whatever they make. Sometimes, I bring thin rods to a local shop to bend, but it is usually, something made of iron.
2. Paining metal. Unless metal is primed with something like Sherwin Williams metal primer or Krylon, the paint will chip.
3. Baton or wand. This is easier. They sell them everywhere.
Solution:
You can buy a bendable rod and a bendable molding at Amazon. It will not be shiny, but it is easy to paint the molding that covers the rod in a shiny color. Then get the wands/batons.
Here are the photos of what I am talking about. I hope it helps. Good luck! I want to see the pictures of what you did. Stay warm in Alaska! Please don’t be shy to come back for questions. 🙂 https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/ddc463889e1880096391918201dc218036b7d411f1640b2f51fb8bd7d46a6204.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/4658d270c65a85f51b7fb6e551852abc7b59461253c96983c27946f108113d35.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/9d2edca097a6778671d635ce733ba9be10a5d5e762371e9974ddbe126622c346.jpg https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/a438a2fc7daeac1d7a71ad5fe931e68e71c7a71eee75d752f9607aa6169cfb64.jpg
Thank you for this informative article. I bought curtains for my bay window and would like to hang them inside the bay, following the curve of the windows like you show. I only bought two window panels as I thought of only hanging one on each side of the side windows. I notice that you show four curtain panels in your photos. Would only hanging two panels look funny? I prefer to let in as much light as possible and privacy in not an issue. I would appreciate a designer’s expert advice.
I have a bay window and didn’t know what to do with it. Thank you for your advice.
I’m glad I could help