Are you in for a DIY project? You’ve probably wondered what it would look like if you had something decorative on the corner of that plain wall going to your ceiling. Well, if you wanted to elevate the style of your room, let me tell you, try adding decorative cornices; it works! Yes, whether you’re renovating your living room, bedroom, or even your home office, you can really add a cornice to make it look more attractive and sophisticated. And guess what? You can totally do it yourself!
So, what exactly are decorative cornices? These are actually the ones you see that run along the corners where your wall and ceiling meet, and since they are decorative, they are often ornate mouldings. And they’re not just for show; these cornices serve both decorative and practical purposes. We can’t really perfect the termination between your wall and ceiling; sometimes, you might get that wavy finish or unsmooth paint. This is where your decorative cornices come in. They can hide any imperfections in between your wall and ceiling and add in more architectural interest. And the design varies from simple, sleek styles to more elaborate, carved designs. You can find whatever you like that matches your modern minimalist vibe or more classic, traditional feel.
So let me help you now with how you can install your cornices.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Before getting started, you’ll need a few basic materials first:
- Cornice pieces
- Cornice adhesive or cement
- Measuring tape, pencil, and level
- Mitre box and saw for cutting precise angles
- Screws and drill (for secure installation)
- Sandpaper to smooth any rough edges
If you’re not really sure where to start, you can always ask your local store for advice or even get inspiration from design magazines. And remember, there’s no shame in grabbing a few samples to test it out first to see which design fits your space best.
Step 2: Measure and Cut Your Cornices
Before placing your cornices in, make sure to measure the perimeter of the room to know how much cornice you need. For internal and external corners, you can use a mitre box to make a precise angle cut. It’s so much easier with a mitre box, considering it will also help you cut with cleaner edges.
Step 3: Installation
Now, you install! Make sure to apply adhesive or cement at the back of each piece. You wouldn’t want to see them fall one by one after installation, right? And while you’re at it, you should then start from one corner of your room, press it into place, and then work your way around. You can also use a level to make sure it’s straight, to make it look like a pro installed them. And for extra security, you can also insert screws along the top or bottom edges, especially in larger rooms.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
After installation, don’t forget to use your sandpaper to remove any excess adhesive and to make sure also that everything is flush against your wall and ceiling. If you’re still not satisfied, then be creative! Try adding some fresh paint or even putting on some LED lights along your cornice. If you’re not too confident with light installations, you can always ask your electrician for help.
Step 5: Admire Your Work!
Yes, take a step back and admire your handiwork. You did it!
Whether that’s a single room or you totally did your entire house, by adding those decorative cornices, you have dramatically improved the look and feel of your home. Go and feel that sense of accomplishment afterwards; you deserve it.
So what are you waiting for? Grab those tools and get your cornices, and get your masterpiece started! Good luck!
