Learn how to make the most of your space with clever storage hacks, jazz up your windows with cool curtains or blinds, and bring the outdoors in with some lush greenery. Whether you're into classic vibes, modern chic, or a mix of both, we've got the inspo to help you turn those bay windows into the coolest spot in your home!

Create a Haven for Houseplants

If you're a plant person, interior designer Ana Maria Torres, owner of AT Architects, suggests using your bay window to create a haven for your houseplants. No built-in shelving? Try adding a console table in front of the window for smaller plants, or surround the window with large pots. Either way, your plant babies will appreciate the extra light.

Build a Reading Nook

Bay windows provide a great opportunity to enjoy the view, and with a little work, you can create your own cozy space. Kristin Patrician, owner and principal designer of Dwelling Envy Virtual Interior Design Firm, suggests adding a custom built-in bench with storage, then adding cushions and decorative pillows to create a cozy reading nook (or an excellent napping spot).

Make a Cozy Workspace

No dedicated home office? No problem. Interior designer Maggie Clarke, CEO of Maggie Clarke Interiors, recommends placing your desk and chair inside a bay window. "A Feng Shui specialist would tell you to be sure to face the inside of the room as you work," she says. "This creates a sense of security so you can see who is approaching you." Don't forget to add a window treatment to block harsh sun rays.

Create a Conversation Area

Upholstered chairs with a side table between them create an instant conversation space (or a comfortable nook for reading and relaxing). Patrician suggests adding overhead lighting, or you can plug a floor lamp in on one side for ambient lighting.

Install Wood Blinds

Whether you want a way to block out light in front of your bay window workspace or reading nook or just want to add a bit of extra interest to your window space, try out wood blinds for a high-end look.

Set Up a Window-Facing Sitting Area

If you'd rather enjoy the view than face inside your living room—and you have enough space around the bay window—create a sitting area that faces outside. Two upholstered or cushioned chairs should do the trick; then, add a side table between them or a small coffee table in front of them.

Add a Loveseat

Another option to create a sitting area in your bay window, according to Clarke: add a large, upholstered chair, a short sofa, or a loveseat in front of it. If your bay window doesn't have a sill, try placing the loveseat a foot or so in front of the window with a console behind it. You can also add a side table or two nearby so people have somewhere to put their drinks.

Add Curtains

Choose a color that accentuates your color scheme, and for a touch of drama, choose patterned or textured curtains. And while any bay window can be dressed up with curtains, Clarke likes adding them to create extra coziness in a sitting area.

Create a Breakfast Nook

Have a bay window in your kitchen? Kim Taylor of Two Hands Interiors, says a bay window is a perfect spot for a breakfast nook, whether you install a bench or simply place a dining table and chairs near the window. If you already have a formal dining room, then use it as a casual space for sipping coffee. "When selecting furniture, just make sure that the beauty of the window isn't blocked by too much," Taylor says.

Hang Sheer Curtains

If direct light is too much for your space but you don't want to close your curtains and shut out all the light, add a layer of sheer curtains behind your heavier ones instead of blinds. When it's super sunny, you can keep just the main curtains open; if you want even more light, then you always have the option to open the sheer ones, too.

Add Cushions or a Pouf

For a more casual seating area, swap out chairs for a couple of floor cushions or a fabric pouf and place them in front of your window. If storage is more important to you, then choose a cozy ottoman that opens up for storing blankets (or any other clutter you don't want on full display).