Add timeless elegance and personality to any room with window cornice boards. These stylish, functional accents hide curtain hardware and lend a polished finish to your windows. Whether you seek a touch of classic charm or a modern statement piece, cornice boards offer versatile design solutions to suit every taste. This shopping guide will help you select the perfect cornice board for your space and needs.
Comparison Table: Types & Applications of Window Cornice Boards
| Type/Variation | Materials Used | Typical Style | Common Applications | Customization Options | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wood Cornice Board | Solid Wood, MDF | Classic, Modern | Living Room, Dining Room | Paint, Moldings, Carvings | $75–$250+ |
| Fabric-Upholstered Cornice | Plywood, Batting, Fabric | Transitional, Soft | Bedrooms, Nurseries, Offices | Pattern/Fabric, Trim | $80–$400+ |
| Pre-Finished / Minimalist | MDF or Wood, Veneer | Minimalist, Sleek | Modern Spaces, Offices | Color Selection | $80–$200 |
| Custom Designer Cornice | Client’s Choice | Any (Tailored) | High-End, Statement Windows | Unlimited | $200–$1000+ |
| DIY Foam Board Cornice | Foam Board, Fabric | Quick/Easy, Budget | Rentals, Kids’ Rooms | Fabric, Wallpaper | $25–$60 |
| Metal Cornice (Rare) | Metal, Paint | Formal, Industrial | Formal Living, Industrial Loft | Powder Coat, Color | $200–$500 |
Everyday Usage of Window Cornice Boards
Window cornice boards are decorative headers installed above windows. They:
– Conceal unsightly curtain rods and hardware,
– Frame and finish the window area,
– Provide a sense of architectural detail,
– Allow for layering with drapes, shades, or blinds.
Where You’ll See Them
– Living rooms: Enhancing formal drapery or lending polish to casual spaces,
– Bedrooms: Adding softness and elegance, especially when upholstered,
– Offices or studies: Offering tailored, professional style,
– Nurseries: Soft, fabric cornices with playful patterns.
How They Function
Most cornice boards are stationary (not movable) and extend 2–4 inches past the window on each side. They’re set high above the window and either mounted on the wall (outside mount) or between the window casing (inside mount). They can be used alone for a clean look or combined with curtains/shades for layered effect.
Key Benefits of Window Cornice Boards
1. Enhanced Visual Appeal
- Bring height and grandeur to windows,
- Create a finished, custom look even on basic windows,
- Instantly upgrade the style of any room.
2. Concealment & Tidiness
- Hide curtain rods, blinds, or shade mechanisms,
- Create a neat upper window line—especially important for inside/outside mounts with unsightly hardware.
3. Improved Insulation
- Add a layer of material above the window, helping buffer against heat loss/gain and increasing energy efficiency.
4. Versatility & Customization
- Match any décor style, from traditional to ultra-modern,
- Easy to reupholster or repaint for future style updates,
- Add trim, cording, buttons, or LED lighting for extra impact.
5. Budget-Friendly Makeover
- Can completely transform a window or room with relatively small investment—especially when DIY’d.
How to Choose the Right Window Cornice Board
Selecting a window cornice board involves balancing aesthetics, room needs, and budget. Follow these steps to ensure you pick the best option for your space:
1. Define Your Objective
- Are you mainly hiding hardware, adding color, or seeking a dramatic design statement?
- Do you require additional insulation or sound dampening?
2. Choose a Style
- Boxed Wood Cornice: Best for crisp, architectural lines and classical / transitional settings.
- Fabric Upholstered Cornice: Softened look, suited for bedrooms and cozy spaces.
- Minimalist/Modern Cornice: Simple lines, often in muted colors, great for contemporary spaces.
3. Material Selection
- Wood or MDF: Paintable/stainable, extremely durable.
- Fabric & Padding: Offers texture and softness, infinitely customizable with color/pattern.
- Foam Board: Lightweight, economical, good for rental properties or short-term use.
4. Sizing & Measurement Tips
- Width: Measure the window with casing and add 2–4 inches on each side for overhang.
- Height: Typically 1/5 to 1/6 the window’s height; 10–12 inches for standard windows, taller for dramatic effect.
- Depth: Must clear out curtain rods/blinds; add 1–2 inches beyond existing projection.
5. Consider Customization
- Add decorative trims, nailhead accents, or fabric welting,
- Use bold colors or patterns for a statement,
- Consider built-in lighting (LED strips) for night ambience.
6. Professional vs. DIY
- Custom/boutique options offer professional fitting and unique shapes,
- DIY provides cost savings and total creative control; perfect for experienced crafters or budget projects.
User Tips: Best Practices for Selection & Use
Measuring & Planning
- Always measure both width and depth of the window area to guarantee a flush, proportionate look.
- Create a cardboard or poster board template before cutting materials for unique shapes.
Fabric Selection for Upholstered Cornices
- Choose medium-weight, abrasion-resistant fabric (canvas, linen blends, heavy cotton).
- Pre-test fabric stretch and transparency; busy prints can mask seams, solids highlight them.
Mounting and Installation
- Use French cleat systems for secure, removable mounting (especially on heavier wood cornices).
- For lighter foam/fabric builds, wall brackets may suffice—ensure stability and straightness with a level.
Layering Window Treatments
- Pair with drapery panels, roman shades, or blinds for a designer, layered look.
- Consider inside vs. outside mount based on existing window casings and architectural details.
Custom Touches
- Use cording, fringe, or fabric-covered buttons for classic looks.
- For modern interiors, opt for geometric shapes or minimalist profiles.
Easy Updates
- Many cornice boards (especially upholstered types) can be recovered with new fabric as your style evolves.
- Paint wooden cornices to match or contrast with trim for a tailored finish.
Technical Comparison Table: Key Features & Specs
| Attribute | Wood Cornice | Fabric Cornice | Foam Cornice | Custom Designer | Minimalist / MDF |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | Heavy | Medium–Heavy | Light | Varies | Medium |
| Standard Height | 8–16 inches | 10–20 inches | 4–12 inches | Custom | 4 inches |
| Max Width (per unit) | 60–120 inches | 60–120 inches | 60+ inches | Custom | 120 inches |
| Mounting System | French Cleat, L-Brackets | L-Brackets, Cleat | L-Brackets, Velcro | Pro Installed | L-Brackets |
| Custom Shapes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Usually Rectilinear |
| Cost Range | $75–$250+ | $80–$400+ | $25–$60 | $200–$1000+ | $80–$200 |
| Color/Fabric Options | Paint/Stain | Infinite | Infinite | Infinite | Limited color range |
| Best For | Formal, Heavy Use | Bedrooms, All | Budget, Rental | High-End Custom | Modern, Simple |
Practical Tips for Choosing & Using Window Cornice Boards
- Match Your Cornice to Room Architecture
- In homes with crown molding or tall ceilings, choose larger, more ornate cornices.
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For modern apartments, a streamlined, fabric-wrapped board works well.
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Choose Appropriately for Use
- Kids rooms and nurseries: Go for upholstered, soft corners, easy-to-wipe materials.
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High-moisture areas: Avoid fabric cornices; paintable wood or PVC are better.
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Coordinate with Window Coverings
- Use the cornice to tie together blinds, shades, or drapery with the overall room palette.
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Repeat a fabric or color from your furniture or rug to create flow.
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Easy Cleaning & Maintenance
- Fabric boards can be lightly vacuumed or spot-cleaned.
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Wood/MDF options can be wiped down with a damp cloth.
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Installation Help
- Enlist a partner for safe lifting, especially on larger or heavier cornices.
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Always use a level for precise installation.
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Budget Wisely
- DIY foam or plywood projects can run as little as $25–$75 per window.
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Custom professionally-made boards can run $250–$1000+ per window, depending on complexity and fabric.
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Safety First
- Be mindful of sharp hardware or angles in kids’ spaces.
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Always secure boards into wall studs for maximum support.
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Seasonal Updates
- Easily swap out fabric on upholstered styles for seasonal refreshes.
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Conclusion
Window cornice boards offer a fast-track to stunning, polished windows and a customized, finished look in any room. Whether you select a handcrafted wood board, a plush upholstered cornice, or a sleek, off-the-shelf minimalist type, there’s a style, function, and budget to fit your needs.
From everyday tidiness (hiding hardware) to major visual impact (statement fabrics or shapes), cornice boards add value, comfort, and personal expression. Careful measurement, complementary colors/fabrics, and secure installation are all key to achieving a flawless finish. For DIYers and design enthusiasts alike, upgrading with a window cornice board is one of the highest-impact, cost-conscious window treatments available.
FAQ
- What is a window cornice board?
A window cornice board is a decorative top treatment installed above a window, often made of wood, MDF, or foam and sometimes upholstered with fabric. It conceals curtain rods or blinds and adds a stylish, finished touch to windows.
- How does a cornice board differ from a valance?
A cornice board is a firm, box-like structure—typically wood or MDF, often upholstered—that projects from the wall, whereas a valance is a soft, draped fabric treatment that hangs freely and does not have a rigid frame.
- Can I install a cornice board myself?
Yes! Many homeowners opt for DIY installation, especially for foam or simple plywood/fabric boards. Key steps include measuring, constructing or assembling, and securely mounting (preferably into studs).
- How do I measure my window for a cornice board?
Measure the total width of your window, including casing, and add 2–4 inches on each side for overhang. Determine the desired height (typically 1/5–1/6 the window height) and ensure the depth will accommodate any curtain rods or blinds underneath.
- What fabric is best for fabric-covered cornice boards?
Medium to heavy-weight fabrics like cotton, linen, or a blend work best. Avoid very stretchy or delicate fabrics to ensure smooth covering without sagging or puckering. Patterns can help hide seams; solids provide a crisp, elegant look.
- Can I put a cornice board over any window treatment?
Yes! Cornices work beautifully over drapes, blinds, roller shades, or on their own. Just ensure the depth of your cornice board is sufficient to clear any underlying hardware or window coverings.
- Can cornice boards help with energy efficiency?
Absolutely. A well-fitted cornice board can add a buffer at the top of your window, helping to reduce drafts or heat escaping, improving insulation and energy savings.
- How do I clean or maintain a cornice board?
For wood/MDF: Wipe clean with a damp cloth. For fabric: Vacuum with an upholstery attachment or spot-clean as needed. Some fabrics may be removed for cleaning or recovering.
- Are window cornice boards out of style?
Not at all. While traditional shapes remain timeless, updated fabrics, minimalist boxes, and creative DIY techniques have kept cornice boards fresh and on-trend for contemporary interiors.
- What does it cost to add a cornice board to my windows?
Costs range from as little as $25 for basic DIY foam or plywood boards to $250–$1000+ for professionally-made, fully customized designer cornices, depending on size, materials, and customization level.