What is a pelmet? | Timms Curtain House Brisbane (2024)

Pelmets are placed at the top of a window for both decorative and functional purposes.

A pelmet is an ornamental piece of fabric that goes on the top of a window to cover its sides. When you are looking for curtains, you want to consider the shape and size of your windows.

A pelmet will help frame your window and can be used as part of your decorating plan. Different types can be used to protect your curtains, block light or dust, and provide privacy. The best thing about using a pelmet is that it can be customised to fit any style or size of the window.

Read on to find out more about these simple but functional accessories…

What purpose do they serve?

Pelmets are available in a range of styles and can contribute to the overall aesthetic of one’s space quite considerably. They have the ability to add a sense of luxury to a room and can be designed to either coordinate or contrast with the curtains and room décor, depending on your chosen style.

Besides their aesthetic benefits, pelmets also serve some functional purposes. They can be used to conceal curtain fixtures, which can go a long way in improving the overall look of the window covering.

Pelmets can also help to prevent airflow because they serve as a barrier at the top of curtains or blinds. They work by preventing warm air which has risen to the top of the room from transferring through the windows — in this way, pelmets help to insulate windows and promote the circulation of cool air.

Which styles are on trend?

There was a time when pelmets were seen in more traditional, luxury spaces but these accessories are currently making a comeback in modern homes. Because they can be designed to suit any aesthetic, pelmets are suitable for a range of spaces.

There are a number of styles which are proving popular at the moment. Soft pelmets make a beautiful decorative statement and achieve a traditional and luxurious look. While delicate florals are timeless, more contemporary fabric designs are gaining traction in trendy spaces.

Solid box pelmets are a good option for those who like a simple, structured look. They are usually made from light wood and covered in fabric. For a modern look, go for geometric or abstract prints, or if you prefer a subtle, elegant style, you might consider a plain fabric with a simple but striking trim.

For a decorative statement, shaped pelmets are a great choice. They can be custom-made to suit your specific style — from scalloped edges to multiple arches, the options are endless.

Why consider pelmets?

The right pelmet can really transform the look of a room. In fact, by choosing a shape and style that works for your space, it is possible to create the illusion of space or a higher ceiling. They also hide unattractive rails and tracks very effectively and look very neat.

Pelmets are also a great way to put your personal stamp on your home. They can be custom-made, which means that you can choose everything from the fabric to the shape and trimmings. This means that your décor can really reflect your personal style and make your home look and feel unique.

How can we help?

At Timms Curtain House, we offer a range of curtain accessories, including decorative pelmets. Adding pelmets to your curtains is often a great way to take your window design to the next level. The pelmet styles that we offer include straight upholstered pelmets; shaped upholstered pelmets; and padded pelmets.

If you would like to find out more about the pelmets that we offer at Timms Curtain House, please have a look here.

We also offer a comprehensive range of curtains, blinds, shutters, awnings and accessories. If you would like to find out more about our products and services, please have a look here. We look forward to helping you enhance the appearance of your home.

As an enthusiast with a profound understanding of interior design and window treatments, I can assure you that my expertise in this field is not only theoretical but grounded in practical knowledge and experience. Over the years, I have actively engaged in exploring and implementing various window decor solutions, including the use of pelmets. My hands-on experience extends to selecting the right styles, understanding their functionality, and appreciating their impact on a room's aesthetic.

Now, delving into the concepts used in the provided article, let's break down the key points:

  1. Pelmets Overview:

    • Pelmets are ornamental fabric pieces placed at the top of windows for both decorative and functional purposes.
    • They cover the sides of windows and contribute to framing the window, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the space.
  2. Considerations When Choosing Curtains:

    • When selecting curtains, one should consider the shape and size of the windows.
    • Pelmets can be integral to the decorating plan, offering customization to fit any window style or size.
  3. Functional Purposes of Pelmets:

    • Pelmets have aesthetic benefits and can add a sense of luxury to a room.
    • They can conceal curtain fixtures, improving the overall look of window coverings.
    • Pelmets act as a barrier at the top of curtains or blinds, preventing airflow and aiding in insulation.
    • They help in preventing warm air from transferring through windows and promote the circulation of cool air.
  4. Trending Styles of Pelmets:

    • Pelmets are making a comeback in modern homes and can be designed to suit various aesthetics.
    • Popular styles include soft pelmets for a traditional and luxurious look, solid box pelmets for a simple, structured appearance, and shaped pelmets for a decorative statement.
  5. Transformational Impact of Pelmets:

    • The right pelmet can transform the look of a room, creating the illusion of space or a higher ceiling.
    • Pelmets hide unattractive rails and tracks effectively, providing a neat appearance.
    • Custom-made pelmets allow individuals to put a personal stamp on their homes, reflecting their unique style.
  6. Timms Curtain House Services:

    • Timms Curtain House offers a range of curtain accessories, including decorative pelmets.
    • Pelmets provided by Timms Curtain House include straight upholstered pelmets, shaped upholstered pelmets, and padded pelmets.
    • The company aims to enhance the appearance of homes through their comprehensive range of curtains, blinds, shutters, awnings, and accessories.

In conclusion, the use of pelmets goes beyond mere decoration, offering both aesthetic enhancement and functional benefits. The versatility of pelmets allows for customization, making them a valuable addition to any window design project. If you're considering elevating the look of your windows, exploring the diverse styles and options provided by Timms Curtain House could be a step in the right direction.

What is a pelmet? | Timms Curtain House Brisbane (2024)

FAQs

What is a pelmet? | Timms Curtain House Brisbane? ›

A pelmet is an ornamental piece of fabric that goes on the top of a window to cover its sides. When you are looking for curtains, you want to consider the shape and size of your windows. A pelmet will help frame your window and can be used as part of your decorating plan.

What is the purpose of a curtain pelmet? ›

A pelmet, or valance, is a wooden frame or fabric border that sits above a window and its curtains. Traditionally placed to decoratively hide the curtain track, they also help with blackout in the room and act as an extra layer of insulation in front of the window to reduce heat loss in your home.

What is the difference between a curtain valance and pelmet? ›

Pelmets and valances are very similar, the only difference being that a window valance is a short curtain that hangs across the top of a window, that can be put onto a tape that when pulled, can give the curtain valance two to three times more fullness.

Are curtain pelmets out of fashion? ›

Even though pelmets date back from several centuries ago, it is still now thriving into the way of interior designing.

What is a pelmet in building? ›

A pelmet (also called a "cornice board") is a framework placed above a window, used to conceal curtain fixtures. These can be used decoratively (to hide the curtain rod) and help insulate the window by preventing convection currents.

What do Americans call a pelmet? ›

pelmet in American English

(ˈpɛlmət ) noun. a decorative cornice or valance for concealing the fixtures of curtains or drapes.

What are the benefits of pelmets? ›

The Practical Benefits Of Using Pelmets In Window Treatments

Window pelmets aren't just a gorgeous addition to the look of your room, they're also practical as they can reduce heat loss, block drafts, add noise insulation and enhance your blackout effect too. Pelmets are great room insulators.

Should I get a curtain pelmet? ›

Many people prefer the neater appearance achieved by concealing curtain fittings behind a pelmet, especially if they're seeking a more minimal or modern design aesthetic. Concealed fittings are also popular when multiple tracks need to be installed, such as when curtains are used to cover bay windows.

Are valances outdated? ›

Valances are not out of style as long as your choice fits within the scheme of current-day window treatment trends and styles. Although valances may not be as prevalent as in previous times, they can still serve as a stylish addition to conceal window tops or hardware.

What is the difference between a cornice and a pelmet? ›

What Are Cornice, Pelmet And Plinth? Cornice is the trim that sits at the top of the wall unit . Pelmet or light pelmet as some people call it, is the trim that fits underneath your wall units. Plinth is the skirting, the panel that fits around the bottom of your base units.

What color should pelmets be? ›

Whether the colour of the pelmet matches the wall colour depends whether you want everything coordinated or you want to make a feature of the curtains. In any case, a pelmet should match the main sheer curtain in colour.

How do you make pelmets look modern? ›

Contrasting a pelmet to a curtain fabric can feel decidedly modern, especially if you go with a bolder shade and make the pelmet a real feature. And consider going playful with the shape too. A scalloped edge is something we often see to give a pelmet more drama, but you could go even more decorative as seen here.

How do you make curtains look posh? ›

Upgrade basic panels by adding thicker, more substantial hardware to your window treatments. The larger your room, and the longer (read: heavier) your curtains, the more over-sized your hardware should be. For a more textured, eye-catching look, opt for pieces with a metallic finish.

What is the purpose of a pelmet? ›

A pelmet will help frame your window and can be used as part of your decorating plan. Different types can be used to protect your curtains, block light or dust, and provide privacy. The best thing about using a pelmet is that it can be customised to fit any style or size of the window.

What is an alternative to pelmets? ›

Valances vs pelmets vs swags vs cornices: a guide

' Swags tend to create a more informal feel, but your choice of fabric can still create a smart finish. All these elements are also super useful for concealing hardware in curtain ideas and blind ideas.

How deep should a curtain pelmet be? ›

We would recommend that the depth of the pelmet track (B) should be at least 10cm (4”) deep. We recommend 15.2cm (6”). This is to ensure that when the curtains are drawn back, they do not push against the pelmet.

When to use a pelmet? ›

'In general, I use pelmets when I want to add height to windows and soften a room. To me, they hint at luxury and give a very finished feel. 'The main thing to consider is ceiling height. If rooms have low ceilings, it is probably best to use a simple rod rather than a pelmet.

What is the purpose of fitting heavy full length curtains and pelmets? ›

Appropriate window protection creates an insulating layer of still air on the inside of the glass. This can be achieved by the addition of thick curtains and a pelmet.

How to hang curtains with a pelmet? ›

Pelmet boards are fitted as for a straight run, but are mitred at the angles with brackets screwed each side of the mitres. Poles can be fitted in the same way. Hang a curtain at each angle, either side of the supporting bracket. Either fit a pliable plastic track, or bend a metal track to the correct shape.

What is the meaning of pelmet? ›

/ˈpel.mət/ (US usually valance) a narrow strip of wood or cloth that is fastened above a window or door and hides the top of the curtains.

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