Window Valances and Window Cornices in Scottsdale, AZ

At House of Shades, we specialize in custom window valances and cornices that add polish, dimension, and architectural elegance to your windows.

Whether you are styling a modern condo or a Mediterranean-style home, our custom window treatments bring together function and beauty tailored to Scottsdale’s unique sun and style.

We collaborate with homeowners, interior designers, and builders to craft window coverings that elevate every room with lasting impact. Our design experts guide you through a selection of fabric choices, structural styles, and finishing touches to ensure a seamless match to your design aesthetic and home décor.

What Is a Window Valance?

A window valance is a soft, decorative top treatment that hangs across the upper portion of your window, offering a finished, designer look. Valances are typically made of fabric and can be shaped, pleated, or swagged to suit any interior aesthetic from casual to refined.

Key Features of Valances:

Crafted from a wide range of fabrics, including sheers, prints, and blackout materials
Designed with soft folds that add texture and dimension
Mounted above shades, blinds, or drapery panels for a layered look
Helps diffuse natural light while concealing hardware
Works well alone or paired with vertical blinds, roller shades, or roman shades

Valances are a beautiful way to complete your windows with charm, movement, and style especially in sunlit Scottsdale homes where soft textures enhance the environment.

What Is a Window Cornice?

A window cornice is a hard-top treatment made from wood or composite materials and are sometimes upholstered in fabric. Unlike the softness of a valance, a cornice provides structure, clean lines, and a classic style that elevates any room.

Cornice Design Features:

Constructed with wood or board base for durability and structure
Often wrapped in coordinating fabrics or painted for a clean architectural finish
Adds height and interest to windows with minimal visual clutter
Ideal for modern, traditional, and transitional interiors alike
A great option to pair with drapes, vertical blinds, or roller shades for a custom, polished look

Our clients love cornices for their ability to conceal curtain rods or motorized hardware while delivering a bold design statement.

Valances vs. Cornices: Which Window Treatment Works Best for Your Style?

Choosing between a valance and a cornice depends on the look you want to achieve, how much softness or structure you prefer, and whether you are layering over existing shades or blinds.


Feature	Valance (Fabric Top Treatment)	Cornice (Hard Top Treatment)
Material	Fabric with soft folds	Wood or composite, often upholstered
Structure	Relaxed or tailored	Structured and permanent
Design Style	Casual, classic, or romantic	Formal, clean, architectural
Function	Conceals rods, adds softness	Adds height and defines the window
Layering Options	Ideal with curtains, sheers, shades	Ideal with blinds, rollers, or layered looks

Use a valance when you want texture and flexibility, or opt for a cornice when you want clean structure and a standout custom design that frames your window with purpose.

Customization Tips and Styling Advice

At House of Shades, every top treatment is designed to reflect your taste and enhance your space. From a selection of colors to trim styles, we help you personalize every detail.

Customization Options

Range of fabrics: Choose from light-filtering linens, blackout velvets, patterned cottons, and more.
Selection of colors: From sun-washed neutrals to bold accents, our color library complements any palette.
Cornice shapes: Straight edge, scalloped, arch-top, or stepped profiles.
Trim & embellishments: Add ribbon, fringe, contrast piping, or nailhead detailing.
Mounting options: Inside- or outside-mount depending on your frame and room layout.

Styling Advice from Our Design Specialist

Use lighter fabrics in sun-exposed spaces to reflect light and maintain brightness.
Layer valances with blackout or solar shades to add softness without sacrificing performance.
Consider matching your cornice fabric with accent pillows or upholstered furniture for cohesion.

Our design consultants will guide you through the options to ensure your top treatment perfectly fits your window size, style, and functionality needs.

How to Use Valances and Cornices Throughout Your Home

Window valances and cornices work beautifully in a variety of rooms. Our design experts recommend these top treatments to:

Add drama and detail in living rooms and great rooms
Introduce softness in bedrooms without compromising privacy
Frame formal dining room windows with elevated structure
Finish office or study windows with clean-lined cornices for a tailored effect
Conceal shade hardware in sunrooms or open-concept areas

Thanks to their versatility, both treatments suit Scottsdale homes with high ceilings, wide window spans, or sun-exposed views that benefit from layered solutions.

FAQs

What is the main difference between a cornice and a valance?

A valance is a fabric-based treatment that adds softness, while a cornice is a structured, upholstered box that adds architectural interest.

Can you combine a valance or cornice with shades or blinds?

Yes, both can be paired with roller shades, roman shades, cellular shades or vertical blinds for complete privacy and light control.

Do valances and cornices come in custom sizes?

Absolutely! All of our top treatments are made to measure and professionally installed as part of our custom window treatments service.

Are these top treatments available in energy-efficient materials?

Many of our fabrics are lined and can help insulate your home against Scottsdale’s intense heat and sunlight.

Can I match my valance or cornice fabric with my furniture?

Our design specialists can help you source matching or complementary fabrics for a cohesive look across your space.

Visit Our Scottsdale Showroom or Schedule a Consultation

House of Shades is your trusted partner for custom window valances and cornices in Scottsdale, AZ. Whether you are starting fresh or updating an existing living space, our design consultants will help you explore the top window covering solutions that elevate your style and fit your design preferences.

Prefer to see your options in person? Visit our Scottsdale showroom to browse our full selection of colors, styles, trims, and design inspirations.

Book an appointment online or call (480) 336-3427 to get a free quote. We are happy to provide window treatment services to Scottsdale and the surrounding communities.