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What Are the Differences Between Cornices and Valances?

Top treatments give your windows a polished look and add visual interest to any space. Two of the most popular styles are custom valances and cornices, but what makes them different from one another? Our Hubbard’s Custom Blinds & Framing Gallery designers can explain the similarities and differences to help you make the right choice for your home.

Custom floral valances on two tall windows in the corner of a traditional living room at Hubbard's Custom Blinds near Cambridge, Maryland (MD)

Similarities Between Custom Cornices and Valances

Cornices and valances are decorative accents that sit on or above a window. They add visual interest while concealing hardware, giving your windows a polished aesthetic. A cornice or valance can block more light from entering a room, making them ideal for pairing with blackout shades or drapes.

So, What Are the Differences Between Custom Valances and Cornices?

Generally, the differences between custom valances and cornices are where you want to use these top window treatments, their installation, and their materials.

Where Should I Use a Cornice?

Cornices are solid wood structures covered with fabric or paint. They emphasize clean lines and add definition to a window. They’re great for formal, sophisticated spaces, like dining rooms, and create a unified look across several window coverings. You can use a cornice in rooms lacking architectural detail and give presence to windows disproportionate to a room’s size or height.

Cornices are versatile enough to use in most interior design styles, such as traditional, modern, or classic. They can contrast or match the window treatments they’re topping. They tend to cover less of a window than a valance does, making them ideal in smaller spaces.

When Should I Consider a Valance?

As for valances, they’re less structured than cornices and soften a room’s aesthetic. You may vary the size and shape of valances and choose from endless materials. They’re a straightforward way to introduce a pop of color or pattern to a room and bring a sense of grandeur to traditional interiors.

A valance alone can add interest and depth to a window without obscuring your view. A valance can make a window appear larger if its bottom edge sits just below the frame and extends past the sides. A potential disadvantage to valances is they collect dust within the fabric folds, meaning you must clean them more often. However, choosing an easy-care fabric that’s machine-washable will make this less burdensome.

Shop Custom Cornices and Valances Near Cambridge, Maryland

Are you thinking about adding cornices or valances to your window treatments? If you need help deciding, our team is here to help! At Hubbard’s Custom Blinds & Framing Gallery, we’ve been part of our great community for over 30 years and take pride in offering premium products and unrivaled customer service. Ask us about professional measuring and installation services to make your custom window treatment process nearly effortless.

We invite you to stop by our showroom at 435 Race Street, call (410) 221-9961, or request a consultation online. Hubbard’s Custom Blinds & Framing Gallery is located near Cambridge, Maryland, and we proudly serve Cambridge, Easton, Salisbury, Denton, Preston, Bay Bridge, Kent Island, Caroline County, and Talbot County, Maryland, and the surrounding area.

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