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Bay window over kitchen sink

12 years ago

We are doing a kitchen extension and our architect suggested a bay window for over our kitchen sink because I wanted to do a center window flanked by two narrower side windows. He has an Anderson 400 Series, 45-CW135-20 on our plan. We intend to install the window so the sill is level with the countertop.

This will be in a 16'x24' room, wherein the kitchen cabinetry will span about half the 24' wall. The same wall will also have a 9' span of casement windows over a window seat. There are no windows along the 16' wall.

This window has a 19" depth in the center and we are wondering whether this is practicle for opening and closing the windows and also cleaning the sill, etc. I wouldn't mind using a step ladder for cleaning, but opening the window needs to be without a ladder.

If you have a bay window over a sink or have experience with this type of window installed over a kitchen sink, can you please comment on whether this is suited for my planned use. Pictures would be helpful.

Also, does anyone put a cabinetry type valance over a window this big?

Thank You.

(Also posted on windows forum, but its not as active as kitchen forum)

Featured Answer

shappy

12 years ago

I have one and love it. It does visually expand the room. DO NOT make it level with your counter! I had planned to and the window guy said no and I thank him. Every spill will run down towards the window and be a cleaning nightmare.
As far as cleaning, i am short but there's an easy solution. I use my microfiber mop, it's much easier than using a ladder. I also use it for the countertop too. Will try to post pic later.

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Comments (6)

User
12 years ago
Only do this if you have VERY long arms and a step stool at the ready. Otherwise the dirty window will drive you nuts, much less being able to open it. Just put in a regular window instead.
1929Spanish
12 years ago
We have one now and will be putting in another when we move the kitchen in the near future. Ours is 4" above the counters and 18" deep. We like it because it lets sunlight in the room for a longer period of time during the day. The new one will be south facing, so we're getting light throughout the day and can maximize cabinets on the west facing walls (the east walls will be interior).

That being said, it does collect dust. I keep my unnecessary kitchen decor up there to look pretty while not getting in the way. Of course, that stuff collects dust as well. I also made a valance that hangs about 10" with beaded balls that look pretty in the light. I lined it in an interesting stripe that looks pretty from outside as well.

My husband is almost 6'4", so he has window cleaning duty. I take the fifth when it comes to how often we clean windows. We have a step stool. We do not go mental when things are not 100% spotless.

I'll clean up the space in the existing window and try to figure out how to post a picture for you later today.
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shappy
12 years ago
lavender_lass
12 years ago
Shappy- That's a beautiful window! :)

Dilly- I think a big bay window, like Shappy's, would be wonderful for growing herbs...or just enjoying the view. If I had the space, I'd do it, too.
dilly_ny
Original Author
12 years ago
Thanks. I am so glad to hear opinions from those who actually have bay windows in their kitchen. It's very helpful.

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