Believe it or not, a house feels incomplete without the presence of a decorative cornice, and we say this because this simple architectural element has the power to transform a plain room into a space that gives character and exudes something uniquely yours. This is why it is important that you select decorative cornices that can enhance the character of your home, with all the design elements tied together seamlessly.
What are Cornices?
Cornices—sometimes known as coving—are decorative mouldings that run along the edge where the wall meets the ceiling. This is a small detail, we know, but those who know the real function of a cornice might think otherwise. Cornices keep the separation of your wall and ceiling from immediate damages because of natural causes and material disintegration, other than just making your space aesthetically pleasing. They come in various profiles, materials, and sizes, and each style can evoke a different feel.
Now that we got the gist of what cornices are, here are some of the things you need to consider when choosing the perfect decorative cornices for your home:
Match cornices to your home’s era. This is particularly relevant in homes that lean heavily in a specific architectural period, as these homes follow era-specific designs, and mixing and matching both timelines can be a hit or miss, as history is something we cannot mess with.
Consider the room’s proportions. The size of your cornices should be in proportion to the height of your ceilings and the scale of the room. The reason for this is so you won’t feel overwhelmed by the space when you choose something that is out of scale or proportion, as well as it won’t look cramped or too much when you install it. There are general rules of thumb for this, and if you are unsure of what to put, you can always consult a professional to guide you.
Material matters. Cornices come in different materials, and these have their own benefits as well as disadvantages. If you are finding yourself in a tight spot looking for the best material in your home, you can always research which materials have lesser maintenance properties and if they are sustainable and environmentally safe.
Colour and finish. In most cases, cornices are painted the same colour as the ceiling to create a cohesive look. This helps maintain a sense of flow and ensures the focus stays on the overall design rather than drawing too much attention to the moulding itself. But we also have to understand that this is not always the case, as in some instances, the colour of the cornices is used to highlight a certain architectural feature and even add visual interest in a space.
Bringing it All Together
Installing cornices, especially when doing home improvements, is a rewarding way to keep your place unique. It exudes the character of a space that you can only appreciate best when you do it on your own. Before you purchase that cornice, make sure that you take your time to consider how the cornices will interact with other design elements in your home.
