One of the first issues to consider when choosing the best wooden valance is how it will complement any existing wood finishes in the space in which you intend to use it. If you have wooden furniture, trim, or baseboards, especially those that stand out, you will want to choose a valance in a finish that works well with those features. Selecting wooden valance designs will depend much upon the other features in the room as well, including the draperies, curtains, or other window treatments, that will be used along with the valance. If you are going for a particular use, such as adding more surface space to display collections, you will want a shelf or box valance that will allow items to be displayed on top. Of course, choosing the appropriate size is also imperative.
If the other wood finishes in your space are painted, you may wish to choose a wooden valance that is painted to match. A similar color in a lighter or deeper shade will also work. On the other hand, all finishes don’t have to match precisely so you may want to use another color on the valance to add some contrast. On the other hand, you may choose to coordinate your wooden valance with the window treatments instead of the woodwork.
Choosing a wooden valance that works with the architectural design of your space can also produce attractive results. In a Victorian home, adding a touch of gingerbread molding to a wooden valance can add to the charm of the existing décor. If door-frames are arched, you can continue this theme throughout the space with the use of arched valances to create a nice flow.
A wooden valance can be as functional as it is attractive. Along with using a valance for displaying items, you can also use it as a means of storage. Place extra mugs atop a valance in the kitchen or use it for vases that are not currently being used in the dining room. You might extra soaps and lotions in attractive baskets or other containers on top of a valance in the bathroom.
The size of your valance will be calculated according to the size of the window and the placement of other window treatment hardware if applicable. Measure the length of the curtain rod and the return. The return is the length between the wall and the face of the rod. This figure needs to be added twice, once for each side. If curtain rod brackets extend beyond the length of the rod, include this measurement as well. You will need a wooden valance large enough to easily cover these items with plenty of room in between.