Dramatic and enchanting statement box pelmets and cornices are having a comeback within interior design and they are now one of the most desired window and door treatments over shades, blinds and shutters. Covering track or curtain poles, box pelmets can be custom-made to fit at the top of your window or door, or, they could also be a good DIY project if you have the skill!

What is a box pelmet or cornice?

A box pelmet is a piece of wood or board upholstered in fabric that traditionally sits above a window or a rear door to your home to give it structure and conceal tracks or poles. It can also be referred to as a cornice. The fabric covering will tend to match the fabric of the window curtains but may have some extra detailing such as a border or trim for decorative detailing.

Why should I choose a box pelmet or cornice for my doors and windows?

Box pelmets and cornices were once popular in the ‘70s and ‘80s, but soon fell out of favour and for a while were seen as quite a dated look within interior design. Now, they are making a huge comeback and will be one of the biggest window treatment trends for 2023. They are a great way to disguise a window or door that is proportionally too far away from the ceiling, while they can also be used to create a focal point and give your room a high-end look.

Is there more than one shape of box pelmet or cornice?

The great thing about box pelmets is that you have free reign to decide the shape, size and outline (depending on how much space you have above your window or door). Pelmets can be straight blocks, arched or curved, have a stepped design, or, you could make them have on-trend waves or scallops.

Is there an alternative choice to having a box pelmet or cornice?

Yes! Rather than a structural box, you could opt for a valance: a soft fabric pelmet with no board that drapes down and creates a softer look than a striking hard pelmet.

Bordered box pelmets have recently been installed by Cúpla Studio in the new Rixo flagship store on the King’s Road above each changing room door, paired with stripy curtains for a striking effect. While over on Instagram, The Home Reform installed a statement box pelmet over doors leading to a sunny back garden. “We have very tall ceilings, nearly 4m tall and whilst I adore our extension, the space didn’t feel very cosy in winter and the room just needed ‘something’” says homeowner and Interior Designer Bianca Serrao. “The doors felt a little bare and needed some love, so I thought a pelmet and curtains would frame the doors and view into the garden. The curtains operate on cords so they’re easy to open and close - in winter they help keep the heat in and overall, it’s just a warmer and more inviting space to be in. The curtains also stack neatly on either side of the doors so they don’t get in the way too much. I also love the drama of a pelmet and have always wanted one in my home!”

You can find local makers of box pelmets online, but they are a new home decor trend that could be created with a few DIY skills. All you would need would be some hardboard cut to fix and fixed together with corner brackets or screws, wadding, fabric, an industrial staple gun and some fabric glue and trim if you want to apply extra detail. I imagine it to be the same process as when I upholstered my bed. This is something I am really tempted to try, so expect a follow-up post where I have given it a go in the near future!