What is a curtain pelmet?
A curtain pelmet sometimes referred to as a cornice board is a framework placed above a window, it is used to conceal curtain fixtures, fittings and rods. Pelmets are often used decoratively but they can also help to insulate the room from drafts that may come in through the windows or frames or heat in the more warmer months.
Although a pelmet is similar in appearance to a valance and used similar functions, a valence is made solely of material whereas pelmets are often made of plywood and can be painted or covered with fabric.
Pelmets provide elegance for your window treatments while being economical at the same time.
Image credit: https://dollysinteriors.co.uk/curtains-and-pelmets/
Image credit: https://www.rct.uk/collection/53650/pelmet
A brief history of the humble pelmet
A lot of people think that curtain pelmets look old fashioned, that’s because they are. The first idea and use of pelmets dates back to the 15th century, it was the Renaissance Period and art was very big, it was everywhere and being used for everything. Making your homes look elegant and well designed was a big deal during this period, the more wealthy you were the more grand your home decor was.
It’s no surprise that pelmets were mainly used by rich or more upper class people, they would use pelmets to hide imperfections around the home mainly from draping curtains, so the use of pelmets would make the rooms look neater and elegant.
Pelmets would mainly be seen at windows, however their use extended throughout the home and not just on the windows but they also used pelmets to decorate doors and even beds. Patterns and decorative tassels were also used, the bigger the design the more it was pleasing to the eyes.
As centuries passed pelmets continued to be used, designs changed and evolved but they are still around today and very much in use.
Modern Day Pelmets
Curtain pelmets are still very much in use today. They have evolved over the centuries to fit in with all designs and styles.
Pelmets have been modernised and you can now have them custom made to fit in with any decor designs and size of windows within your home.
You can now find pelmets that are made from all different types of materials not just plywood, some are even made of plaster and you can have them in various shapes and sizes. Some can even come fitted with lights built in to the pelmet, the possibilities are endless.
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