DIY Dictionary: Cornice

Family Handyman

What is a Cornice?

The term cornice comes from the Italian word meaning “ledge” and usually refers to some type of horizontal decorative molding. Such moldings may be three-foot-wide concrete bands adorning the top of a 30-story skyscraper or 6-inch sections of wood trim covering a drapery rod over living room windows. By definition, the fascia or eaves around any house can be called cornices, but the term is usually reserved for architectural details with a more decorative flare; your neighbors would probably think you’re stuck up or weird if you tell them you’re going out to hang holiday lights on your cornice.

This guide teaches you how to build window cornices.