How to Cover an Ugly Bay Window

Add blinds. Roman shades are the type that roll up when opened and roll back down to cover the window for privacy. Install one shade over each section of the window. Fabric shades hang similarly to curtains, though they are drawn upwards like a blind and secured with cords. and choose shades in colors or prints that compliment the rest of the decor in your room.

Install shutters over the window. Floor-length shutters act like closet doors and can be drawn in and over the bay window to completely cover it, while being opened to allow light into the room. Cut-to-fit shutters are like the ones you see outside of windows. Installed over your bay window, these shutters provide a clean, tidy look.

Use a valance. Rather than hanging long curtains, a simple valance hung over the top of the bay window provides a dressing that neatens the window's appearance without a lot of fuss. A valance is also an effective way to coordinate a bay window and traditional window's treatments when they are located in the same room.

Hang panel curtains over the window. These long, flat curtains hang in sections over each section of the bay window, conveniently fitting the window's shape without looking messy or overdone.

Place traditional draperies over the window. Installed over the window, the large draperies hang over the window when closed, providing complete coverage.

Brighten up your window seat. If your bay window already has a window seat, reupholster the cushion to match a new valance installed over the window and add a few coordinating toss pillows. If the window does not already have a window seat, consider installing one as a means of dressing up the window and giving it a fresh look.