What Are the Benefits of Using Cornices?

Do Modern Houses Have Cornices?

Yes, many modern houses still have cornices. Cornices are the decorative strips you see where the walls meet the ceiling. They can be simple or very fancy. Some people think that cornices are only for old houses, but that's not true. Today, many new homes use cornices to add a touch of style.

Builders and homeowners like cornices because they make rooms look more finished. Even in modern homes with clean lines and simple designs, a cornice can add just the right amount of detail. Some modern houses use plain cornices to keep the look sleek and neat.

Cornices are also good at hiding things like cracks or cables. This makes them useful as well as pretty. Whether your house is old or new, a cornice can make it look better.

The Main Benefits of Cornices

Cornices offer numerous benefits that enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of a home. Whether your house is modern or traditional, adding cornices can bring character, style, and practicality to your interiors. Here are the key advantages of using cornices:

Adds Style

Cornices are a simple way to elevate the appearance of any room. They come in various designs, ranging from sleek and modern to intricate and ornate, making it easy to find a style that complements your home's décor. Cornices can act as subtle finishing touches or bold decorative features, depending on your preference.

Hides Imperfections

Over time, walls and ceilings can develop small cracks or gaps where they meet. Cornices effectively cover these imperfections, creating a seamless and polished look. They are especially useful in older homes where settling can cause visible gaps or uneven finishes.

Easy to Install

Many people assume that installing a cornice is a complicated process, but that’s not the case. Modern cornices often come in lightweight materials like polyurethane and are available in DIY kits with clear instructions. Even if you’re not an experienced DIYer, installing a cornice can be straightforward and manageable.

Increases Property Value

Cornices are a great investment if you’re looking to increase your property’s value. Homes with decorative features such as cornices often appeal more to buyers and can sell for higher prices. These small architectural details give a house a more complete and high-end feel, making it stand out in the market.

Protects Walls

Beyond their decorative appeal, cornices offer practical benefits by protecting the tops of your walls from accidental damage. They can act as a buffer, preventing scratches, scuffs, and dings caused by moving furniture or everyday activities.

Enhances Room Proportions

When chosen carefully, cornices can visually enhance the proportions of a room. For instance, thinner cornices can make low ceilings appear higher, while larger, more elaborate designs can add grandeur to spaces with high ceilings. This versatility makes cornices suitable for rooms of all sizes.

Can Cornices Increase Property Value?

Yes, having cornices in your home can significantly increase its property value. When potential buyers view a house, they often look for features that add character and style, and cornices are one such detail. These decorative mouldings provide a sense of sophistication and help make rooms appear more polished and complete. Cornices are particularly appealing in homes with traditional or elegant designs, but they can also complement modern aesthetics when chosen thoughtfully.

A well-placed cornice can enhance the overall visual appeal of a room, making it look more luxurious and inviting. Buyers tend to associate these architectural features with quality and attention to detail, which can leave a lasting positive impression. If someone is comparing two homes, the one with thoughtfully designed and installed cornices may stand out because of its refined interior.

Additionally, cornices help create a seamless finish by hiding imperfections like gaps between walls and ceilings or exposed cables. This gives the home a more professional and well-maintained appearance, which is attractive to buyers. Even simple cornices can make a difference, as they provide an extra layer of design that adds depth to the space without overwhelming it.

Do Cornices Make a Room Look Smaller?

Some people worry that adding cornices might make a room look smaller, but this is not usually the case. The right cornice can actually enhance a room’s proportions and even make it appear larger. The key is selecting a design that suits the size and style of the space.

In smaller rooms or those with low ceilings, a thin, simple cornice works best. Minimalistic designs don’t overwhelm the space but still add a polished touch. Lighter colours, such as white or soft pastels, help reflect light and create an open, airy feel.

For larger rooms or spaces with high ceilings, ornate or detailed cornices can add a sense of grandeur without overpowering the room. These designs fill the empty space near the ceiling and add visual interest, balancing the room’s proportions.

Cornices also create clear boundaries between walls and ceilings, which can add depth and draw the eye upward, making a room feel taller. By choosing the right size, style, and colour, cornices can enhance a room’s appeal without making it feel smaller, providing a harmonious and inviting look.

How to Choose the Right Cornice?

Choosing the right cornice for your home involves considering several factors to ensure it complements your space and enhances its overall appearance. One of the first things to think about is the style of your home. If your home has a modern design, a sleek and simple cornice will work best. On the other hand, traditional or period properties can accommodate more intricate and detailed cornice designs that reflect their character.

The size of the room also plays an important role in selecting the right cornice. For smaller rooms or spaces with low ceilings, thinner and simpler cornices are ideal as they won't overpower the space. Conversely, larger rooms with high ceilings can benefit from thicker, more decorative cornices that add grandeur and balance to the room's proportions.

Colour is another key factor to consider when choosing a cornice. Light colours, such as white or neutral tones, blend well with most walls and ceilings and can make the room feel brighter and more spacious. If you’re looking to make a bold statement, you might choose to paint your cornice in a contrasting colour that complements your overall décor.

The material of the cornice is also significant. Traditional plaster cornices offer a classic look but are heavier and can be more challenging to install. Modern materials like polyurethane are lightweight, durable, and easier to work with, making them a popular choice for DIY projects.

Finally, decide whether you want to install the cornice yourself or hire a professional. Many DIY kits are user-friendly and come with clear instructions, but for more complex designs or installations, hiring a professional ensures a flawless finish. Taking these factors into account will help you choose the perfect cornice that adds beauty and value to your home.