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The Role of Top Treatments in Designer Rooms

  • Digvijay Bhayana
  • May 28
  • 2 min read

When it comes to luxury interior design, it’s often the finishing touches that make the biggest impact. One of the most powerful yet underutilized details is the top treatment. Whether it’s a structured cornice or a softly draped valance, top treatments in designer rooms can transform a window from basic to breathtaking.


Split image showing three styles of top treatments — a tailored cornice in a living room, a soft valance in a bedroom, and dramatic swags and cascades in a formal dining room.

In this post, we’ll break down what top treatments are, why they matter, and how they’re used by top designers to create polished, layered interiors.


What Are Top Treatments?


Top treatments are decorative elements that sit at the top of a window. They’re often used to:

  • Conceal hardware

  • Add height and structure

  • Create a layered or formal look

  • Tie in fabric and color from other elements in the room


Common top treatments include:

  • Cornices – Upholstered, structured forms

  • Valances – Soft, pleated, or shaped fabric panels

  • Swags & Cascades – Flowing, draped fabric treatments

  • Arched or custom-shaped styles – For specialty windows


Why Top Treatments Matter in Designer Rooms


Top designers use window treatments to guide the eye, reinforce symmetry, and soften architectural lines. Here’s how top treatments in designer rooms enhance the overall space:


1 - They Add Height and Drama

A top treatment draws the eye upward, making ceilings feel taller and windows more prominent.


2 - They Conceal Functional Hardware

Motorized systems or shade brackets disappear behind a cornice or valance, keeping the look clean and intentional.


3 - They Create a Layered, Luxe Look

Layering top treatments over drapes or shades gives a finished, magazine-worthy aesthetic.


4 - They Allow for Creativity in Shape and Texture

Designers love customizing the edge shape, depth, trim, and fabric texture of top treatments to suit the room’s mood.


Examples of Top Treatments by Room Type


Bedroom

A scalloped valance with blackout drapes adds softness and elegance.


Living Room

A structured cornice in a solid fabric adds formality and visual stability.


Dining Room

Swags with cascades bring romance and classic charm.


Office or Study

Boxed top treatments with nailhead details add structure and polish.


Custom Top Treatments at DDCD


At DDCD, we handcraft each top treatment to your exact design intent. Choose from:


Straight, scalloped, or arched shapes

Cornices, valances, or layered styles

Trim, piping, and nailhead detailing

Full installation support for designers and homeowners



Final Thoughts


From structure and style to softness and sophistication, the impact of top treatments in designer rooms is undeniable. They bring a sense of completeness to any space and are a go-to detail for professionals looking to elevate a project.


Whether you’re designing a layered drapery look or finishing a custom window shade install, a well-crafted top treatment is the perfect final touch.

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