Valances and Cornices 

Drapery and Window Treatment Combos

When you choose drapery as your window fashion, you have the option of deciding whether you want to decorate the top of the window, which can create a cohesive look by covering the drapery rod and pulling the whole look together. Valances and cornices are the standard decorative element—and each one has its own benefits. At Blinds & Designs serving Marin County, we’ll be happy to help you determine the option that best complements your space to create the look you want. 

Read more: Valances and Cornices 

About Valances

More casual than cornices, valances are made of fabric draped across the window top, to add texture and warmth to the window’s vibe. They’re flexible and offer a number of styling options; you can choose from many patterns and colors and can even choose to make them ruffled or pleated to match a look. For rooms that strive to evoke a sense of comfort and an inviting feel, a valance might be the best bet. You’ll often find valances in kitchens, where their softness can counteract the hard surfaces and metal components, as well as in less formal rooms like bedrooms or family rooms. Drawbacks include that they can easily collect dust so need frequent cleaning, and their style can quickly become dated.

About Cornices

Cornices are solid fixtures that adorn the top of the window. They can present a very refined feel, with a structured design. Constructed of wood or fiberboard, they can be upholstered or painted to match the room’s décor style. More formal and bold, cornices work well in dining areas, home offices, and formal spaces because they offer clean lines and a rigid appearance. They can hide the curtain rod or elevated blinds, and they can make your room seem taller because they draw the eye upward.

Points to Consider

If you frequently update the look of your space, don’t go with a cornice—it’s inflexible in terms of decoration change—instead choose a valance for its interior design versatility. To block as much light as possible, select a cornice, because it’s harder and not transparent; on the flip side, the valance, made of fabric, will let more light through. That all said, you can’t really make a “right or wrong” choice with cornices and valances; it all comes down to your personal preference, your room’s style, and what’s needed for the space.  

Cornices and Valances in in Marin County 

Blinds & Designs offers a full line of quality window treatments to homeowners and commercial clients throughout the San Francisco Bay Area and Marin County areas, including Burlingame, Hillsborough, Atherton, and Los Altos. With an ongoing commitment to high quality products and exceptional service, we’ve been serving our communities for over 26 years.

Stop by our showrooms in San Francisco or Belvedere-Tiburon to see a variety of motorization displays in our showroom or call 415-921-4217 Ext 101 for more information.

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