Bay windows originated in the English Renaissance and continue to be used today in a variety of home styles. Known as projection windows because they extend from the building, bay windows consist of three sections: a window in the center flanked by an angled window on either side.
They add interesting architectural detail, while extending houses into the landscape and letting in light, said architect Michael Franck. They can take on many shapes such as boxed or faceted, he said. Another popular style of projection window is the bow window. Bow windows are made up of many windows arranged on a curving structure which gives it a smooth arc shape.