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Bay Windows
A bay window is a window space projecting outward from the wall of a structure. It is typically three sided with the center section (the one parallell to the exterior wall) larger than the other two. The two end sections (or flankers) often meet the center section at angles of 30, 45 and 90 degrees.
The window may be a complete self contained unit and have its own head and seat boards (top and bottom) or it may be constructed into the wall of the structure untilizing an extension of the floor or ceiling.
The windows making up the bay can be of many types although the most prevalent is a center picture window with either double hung or casement flankers
The windows are commonly used to provide the illusion of a larger room. They are used to increase the flow of natural light into a building as well as provide views of the outside that would be unavailable with an ordinary window. Other benefits include extra shelf or floor space on which to display items of interest and an opportunity to catch breezes that may be parallell to the wall.
Bay windows may be used as an architectural feature to provide interest to an otherwise plain wall of a structure.