Window Valances & Cornices

Transform Your Home with Stylish Window Valances & Cornices

What are window valances and cornices?

Window valances and cornices are decorative top treatments that sit above curtains, blinds, or shades to hide hardware, frame the window, and give a room an instant style boost. Think of them as hats for your windows — they finish the look, soften hard lines, and can even make ceilings look higher or windows appear wider. While valances are typically fabric-based and soft, cornices are usually solid structures made from wood or molded material that add architectural definition.

Valances vs cornices: quick comparison

If you’re deciding between a valance and a cornice, picture this: valances are like scarves — flowing, textural, and easy to change seasonally. Cornices are more like picture frames — structured, permanent, and architectural. Valances are great for casual, cozy spaces, while cornices suit traditional or more formal schemes. Both can hide brackets and tracks, but cornices can also conceal bulky curtain hardware or motorized mechanisms more effectively.

Popular styles and trends for 2025

Trends evolve, but some window-top styles consistently return because they’re versatile. Tailored box valances, scalloped designs, swag valances, and pleated pelmets are all popular. Cornices are trending in painted wood finishes, reclaimed wood for rustic interiors, and upholstered versions for a plush look. Minimalist homes favour slim, straight-line cornices in neutral tones, whereas maximalist rooms love dramatic layered valances with trim and tassels.

Modern, classic, and rustic options

For a modern look, choose a slim-lined cornice painted in matte white or charcoal and pair it with sleek roller blinds. Classic interiors benefit from pleated fabric valances with fringe or piping. Rustic or cottage styles do well with raw wood cornices or soft swags in linen. Mixing textures — say a linen valance over a wooden cornice — can add depth without overwhelming the space.

Materials: what to pick and why it matters

The material you choose affects appearance, insulation, and maintenance. Fabric valances come in cotton, linen, velvet, and blended synthetics. Each has a personality: velvet feels luxe and blocks light better, linen breathes and suits casual living rooms, while synthetic blends resist stains and are easier to clean. Cornices are typically made from plywood, MDF, or solid timber and can be painted, veneered, or upholstered.

Pros and cons of common materials

Velvet valances look sumptuous and help with sound dampening, but they can collect dust and may need special cleaning. Linen valances are breathable and relaxed but may wrinkle. Wooden cornices are durable and easy to repaint; however, they add weight and often require more precise installation. If energy efficiency is important, consider an upholstered cornice that adds a thermal barrier at the top of the window.

How to measure for valances and cornices

Getting the size right is key. Measure the full width of the window, including any trim, and then decide how far you want the treatment to extend beyond the window frame. A common rule is to add 3 to 6 inches on each side to create a framed look. For height, valances often drop 6 to 18 inches below the top of the window, depending on whether you want a short trim or a more dramatic fall. Always measure in inches or feet to fit precise hardware and store dimensions.

Step-by-step measuring tips

Start by measuring the window width in inches. If your window is 48 inches wide, consider a valance that covers at least 54 to 60 inches if you want a framed look. For a cornice, measure the width of the curtain track or rod and add 3 to 4 inches on both sides for overlap. Height-wise, a 6-inch valance suits modern kitchens, while a living room might benefit from a 12 to 18-inch drop for more presence.

Installation basics: DIY or pro?

Many valances are DIY-friendly: lightweight fabric valances mount to simple brackets and can be attached in under an hour with a drill and screwdriver. Cornices, being heavier, often require wall anchors, studs, or cleat systems to secure them safely. If you’re hanging a large wooden cornice or installing a motorized cornice for automated curtains, hiring a professional ensures safety and perfect alignment.

Tools and supplies you’ll likely need

Keep a tape measure (in inches), spirit level, drill with bits, screwdriver, screws, wall anchors, and a pencil on hand. For fabric valances you may also need a hand-sewing kit or fabric adhesive for minor tweaks. If you’re working with timber cornices, wood glue and clamps help with joinery before fixing to the wall. Don’t forget safety gear like eye protection when drilling into plaster or brick.

Coordinating valances with curtains and blinds

Valances and cornices don't exist in isolation — they should complement your curtains or blinds. A common pairing is a wooden cornice with lined draperies beneath, or a soft valance over roman blinds. If your window already has a bold patterned curtain, pick a neutral valance to balance; conversely, a plain curtain is a canvas for a decorative valance or cornice with texture or trim.

Layering tips for style and function

Layering adds both style and function. For winter warmth, use a thermal-lined curtain with a cornice and a valance to reduce drafts at the top of the window. In a bright room, combine a blackout roller blind with a decorative valance for a theatre-like finish. Remember proportion: slim valances suit narrow windows, while deep cornices pair best with tall, wide windows to prevent visual imbalance.

Energy efficiency and privacy benefits

Aside from aesthetics, valances and cornices can improve energy efficiency. They block hot sunlight in summer and reduce heat loss in winter by covering the top gap where warm air can escape. An upholstered cornice lined with insulating material can make a notable difference. If privacy is a concern, especially for street-facing rooms, layering valances with thicker curtains or blinds gives you control over light and sightlines.

Practical improvements you’ll notice

Expect reduced glare, more controlled daylight, and a cozier room temperature when you add a properly fitted valance or cornice. The visual effect can also make furniture feel more anchored and the room more finished — little changes that boost comfort and perceived value without major renovation.

Budgeting and where to compare prices

Prices vary widely depending on material, size, and whether the piece is bespoke. Fabric valances can be an inexpensive refresh, often costing under $50 for ready-made options in standard sizes, while custom upholstered cornices or solid wood pelmets may run several hundred dollars. If you’re hunting for the best deal, use comparison sites to view multiple offers, read reviews, and compare specifications before buying.

How to get the best value

Look for seasonal sales, bundle discounts when buying curtain tracks and valances together, or outlets selling end-of-line fabrics. Ready-made valances save money, but if you need an exact size or unique finish, a custom cornice may be a better long-term investment. Also consider materials that balance cost with longevity — a higher initial spend on durable materials often saves money down the line.

Styling ideas room by room

Different rooms call for different treatments. In the kitchen, a short valance or pelmet over a window works well since it won’t interfere with splash zones. Bedrooms benefit from deep, lined valances for blackout and thermal benefits. In living rooms, create drama with a layered look: a cornice plus drapes plus a sheer. For bathrooms, choose moisture-resistant materials like PVC-coated fabrics or painted cornices to withstand humidity.

Bedroom, kitchen, and living room recommendations

For bedrooms, aim for a valance drop of 10 to 14 inches paired with blackout curtains to improve sleep quality. Kitchens often look best with a 6 to 8-inch valance above the sink or over café-style windows. In the living room, a 12 to 18-inch cornice adds architectural interest and pairs well with floor-length drapes that measure to the floor in 1/2-inch increments for a tailored look.

Maintenance tips to keep them looking new

Caring for valances and cornices depends on material. Vacuum fabric valances with a brush attachment to remove dust, and spot-clean stains promptly following manufacturer guidelines. Wooden cornices can be dusted and wiped with a slightly damp cloth; avoid harsh chemicals that strip finishes. If upholstery is removable, check whether pieces are machine washable or dry-clean only.

Seasonal care checklist

In spring, give valances a gentle deep clean to remove winter dust. In summer, check that cornices’ paint or finish isn’t peeling in sun-exposed rooms. For autumn and winter, inspect the top of your windows for drafts and add liners or thermal backing where necessary. Regular checks prevent small issues from turning into expensive repairs.

Top product types to consider

When shopping, you’ll see categories like pleated valances, swag valances, tailored box cornices, pelmet boards, and upholstered pelmets. Pleated valances are classic and formal, while box cornices provide a clean modern look. Pelmet boards are lightweight and great for DIY painting or fabric-wrapping. For smart homes, motorized cornices that conceal automated curtain tracks are becoming more accessible.

Smart and specialty options

Motorized cornices let you operate curtains via remote or app and are ideal for large windows or hard-to-reach areas. Thermal-lined valances help lower energy bills, and sound-dampening upholstered cornices improve acoustics in home theatres. If customization is your priority, bespoke services can match fabric and trim to your décor for a perfect finish.

Choosing the right valance or cornice is part practical decision, part creative opportunity. Whether you want to hide hardware, boost insulation, or simply refresh your room’s look, there’s a top treatment to match your budget and style. Measure carefully, consider materials and maintenance, and don’t be afraid to layer — the right window top can turn an ordinary room into a thoughtfully finished space.

Ready to shop? Start by listing what you want: height impact, insulation needs, and whether you prefer a soft or structured look. Then compare options and prices across retailers and comparison sites to find the best match for your windows and wallet.

Conclusion: Valances and cornices are small investments with big visual and practical returns. They refine the window, enhance comfort, and give rooms a composed, polished feel. With careful measurement, the right material choice, and a little creativity, you can transform any window into a focal point that complements your lifestyle and decor.