Valances

Valances

Many people hesitate to explore the world of valances because they believe them to be droopy, tasteless top treatments. That may have been the case in the 90s, but valances today are available in many styles, fabrics, and colors. Modern valances are truly stunning additions that let you decorate your home in even more interesting and fun ways. The designers at Curtain Concepts have been helping homeowners create fabulous custom window treatments for over 20 years, and we’d love to help you next. We’re committed to designing valances that meet your precise specifications and needs for a single window or your whole home.

What Are Valances?

Valances are similar to drapery panels but are much shorter and cover only the top area of a window. You can adorn any window using a valance. Valances look phenomenal paired with any window covering, including drapes, shades, and blinds. A valance also makes a fabulous style statement as a solo treatment on windows in rooms with low light control or privacy needs. No matter how formal or casual your existing decor is, a valance can be made to fit right in. Or stand out; your choice.

Valances vs. Cornices

The terms are used interchangeably, but valances and cornices are different top treatments. Valances are made using only fabric, which gives a valance its soft aesthetic. A cornice has a hard base that gives it a more structured appearance. Cornices are often covered with fabric but can be left without a covering. A wood cornice looks particularly attractive atop hardwood window blinds. Both top treatments can be made in various shapes and sizes.

Using Valances

Valances can be useful for many things beyond aesthetic purposes:

  • Use a valance to conceal hardware or cover the top of a window frame that doesn’t mesh with your preferences.
  • A valance is a fantastic way to add softness and texture to a space. You can use a valence to give a masculine room a touch of femininity without overtaking the overall vibe.
  • Even the best window treatments have a small gap at the top between the covering and the window frame. This space allows unwanted light to enter your room and can compromise your privacy. The space also allows more outdoor noise to enter your home. Valances are an easy way to eliminate that gap.
  • Energy is essential to heat and cool your home, but its use affects the environment and your bank account. By using valances to keep that pesky top gap in check, you can reduce your monthly energy costs and your carbon footprint.
  • If you want to change up your interior design without too much effort, valances are easier to switch out than entire sets of window treatments. New valances are also a more cost-effective route. You can also rejuvenate the appearance of older window treatments with top treatments.
  • Valances are a great way to introduce color to an otherwise neutral palette. A colorful valance will make a statement without being too loud.
  • If you need child-friendly window treatments, valances fit the bill. They are installed high enough to be out of the reach of young children.

Choosing A Valance Style

  • Classic valances feature the dramatic draping that most people associate with valances. This romantic touch looks especially gorgeous with luxe drapery. Traditionally-styled valances often feature scalloped edges or a balloon design.
Image of drapery with scalloped valance
Image of a valance on a kitchen window
  • Any style valance will add height and depth to your home’s windows.
  • Valances have a place above any window. They are especially useful for windows above kitchen sinks because they give the space style without the risk of hanging down into the sink. Valances are an excellent solution when traditional drapery or shades aren’t practical.
  • Valances can be used for every window treatment, not just drapery. A classic swag or ascot-style valance will look right at home atop elegant drapery, but you can adorn roller shades and traditional blinds without a second thought. Cassette valances are an ideal solution for roller and solar shades.
Image of a cassette valance with wooden blinds

Explore Valances at Curtain Concepts

Curtain Concepts is committed to quality products and satisfied customers. We’re your home for Hunter Douglas window treatments, including motorized styles. Our vast selection of fabrics, trimmings, and hardware ensures we have options for everyone. Contact us today to schedule your consultation. We happily serve Hurricane, Teays Valley, Huntington, and the surrounding areas of WV.

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