The feature of a bay window has added elegance and whimsy to buildings as an architectural staple since 1894 when the British Building Act changed regulations, so that casements no longer had to be flush with the exterior wall. Projecting outward from an exterior wall, such a feature creates the illusion of a larger room, while allowing the outdoors to become part of the interior. These features also allow sunlight to pour in from angles an ordinary window could not allow.
Such features remain an architectural gem with several different styles and casements to choose from. A traditional casement features three panels, including a large picture pane, flanked by two spots contained in casements. The two encased apertures on either side of the fixture open to allow air flow.
A bow is often categorized with the bay and has a similar look, however rather than one large picture casement or aperture, there are two or more with four or more panes flanking. The casements on the flanked windows give the bow window a more rounded look, while the bay window features a more angular look. Bay and bow windows can have different grille patterns placed within the glass including: colonial – a classic pattern that fits any architectural style, never looks out of place, and adds tradition. You can choose the number of squares on each sash; prairie – a great way to accent your windows.
A large central section of uninterrupted window, with horizontal sections surrounding it, reminiscent of a frame surrounding a picture; farmhouse – a less common pattern that still looks traditional with two vertical bars on the top section of the window; modified prairie – eliminates two of the horizontal bars that come on standard prairie grilles, offering a less obscured view. Grille patterns enhance the look of a feature by adding modern flare or country styles.
