Window Treatments
Cornice
A cornice is a box-shaped wooden frame covered in fabric or finished with paint or wallpaper, mounted above windows to conceal curtain hardware and add architectural interest. Unlike soft valances, cornices have rigid structure that creates clean, defined lines and contemporary appeal.
Cornices provide excellent opportunity for custom design—upholstered to match headboards, painted to coordinate with trim, or covered in wallpaper for pattern impact. The structured shape suits modern and transitional interiors better than gathered valances while still softening windows and providing a finished look.
Key Characteristics
- ✓Rigid box-like structure
- ✓Conceals hardware completely
- ✓Upholstered, painted, or wallpapered
- ✓Clean, architectural lines
- ✓Custom sizing for any window
- ✓Can include integrated lighting
Types & Variations
Upholstered cornice (fabric-covered)
Painted cornice (matches trim)
Shaped cornice (contoured bottom edge)
Padded cornice (soft, dimensional)
Cornice with returns (wraps to wall)
Works Well With These Styles
Placement & Usage Tips
Cornices should project at least 3-4 inches from the wall to accommodate curtains beneath. Mount at ceiling level for maximum height enhancement. Ensure size is proportional to window—typically 1/6 of total window height.
💡 Pro Tip
Consider adding LED strip lighting inside the cornice to create ambient uplighting or to illuminate sheer curtains below. This designer trick adds drama and provides practical ambient lighting for bedrooms.