What is the primary purpose of an upholstered cornice or valance?

The primary purpose of an upholstered cornice or valance is to add decorative appeal above a drapery panel. These elements are typically designed to enhance the overall aesthetics of a room by providing a finished and polished look to the window treatment. An upholstered cornice or valance can also help in framing the window, drawing attention to it, and creating visual interest. Additionally, they often serve to conceal hardware and the top of the drapery, offering a seamless transition and enhancing the overall design of the space.

While insulation and light management may be considerations in window treatments, they are not the main objectives of cornices or valances. Similarly, although some window treatment designs may provide support for curtain rods, this is not the primary function of an upholstered cornice or valance, which are more focused on decorative aspects.