Why Do Some Window Grills Have A Curve At The Bottom?

Whether you are walking around a city in the United States or abroad, you may have noticed iron bars on the windows. You may be most accustomed to seeing bars that are straight — going directly from the top of the window to the bottom, or creating a small box around the window with straight lines. In some areas though, especially historic towns and cities, you may see grills with an outward curve at the bottom.

Named for the round, belly-like shape seen at the base of the window, these are often referred to as window belly bars. Window bars are typically made of wrought iron or cast iron – two materials that are strong but are able to be shaped and designed to suit the homeowners' stylistic preferences. Curved window grills can feature intricate decorative elements, be relatively simple, or fit somewhere in between. Aesthetics are not the only reason that these rounded window bars exist however, as they were originally invented to increase security in homes and other buildings by deterring others from breaking in. While straight bars might seem more functional, there are many practical benefits of curved window grills that explain why belly bar grills exist, including room to house items on the windowsill, and creating a larger space for homeowners to lean out.

One primary reason for the curve is to provide security on windows that have windowsill plants. Homeowners wanted room for planters and other decor, but they could not compromise safety, so the bars were curved to accommodate any windowsill items. It was the best of both worlds — the option to add beauty to the space while also helping make the home more secure. Similarly, while air conditioning was not around when this style of window bar was invented, the belly design is perfect for protecting air conditioning units that hang over windowsills. The style is also necessary for some types of windows to open: For tilting windows that jut out at the bottom, curved bars are a way to give ample space for opening the window with a grill. 

The curved bottom was also designed so people could lean out windows and have a better view of the ground while staying safe. The homeowner has more space to maneuver their head and get a good angle for viewing, while the extra space between the bars and the window makes it more difficult for any would-be intruders to reach inside or get too close to the window.

Even if window bars are considered an outdated window feature that certain designers like the Property Brothers avoid, they can look stunning on an older home or building. For example, in Charleston, South Carolina, iron window bars became a popular place to display palmetto shapes and other designs. Curved window bars, in particular, are great for adding a stylistic element, and serve as an effective way to evoke an old-world European, Mediterranean, or Latin feel, as these locations are known for using this shape. For those who want a home with special details and a specific architectural style, they are a perfect choice, even if you do not require space for a planter or air conditioning unit. Not only are they a unique shape, but they also provide more dimension for craftspeople to work with, such as the semicircles on the sides that are created by the curve of belly bars.

Iron window grills have fallen in and out of fashion over the years, especially as architectural trends have shifted. The bars may look out of place on modern buildings (which explains why some people have turned to clear burglar bars to prevent house break-ins), but they perfectly accentuate the historical beauty of older homes and more intricate architectural styles. Combine the practicality with the elegant style, and you will start to understand why they exist.