Selection of cornice

The Greeks when they defined the Orders of Classical Architecture were precise and mathematical about the size, curvature and definition of each element. Their proportion system based on the square, circle and the proportions of the human body was loved by the Romans who introduced more circular curves (compared to the Greek ellipses). However, main elements defined in the orders such as the width and height of a column in relation to the entablature (bulk head) it carries are fundamental to obtain the look and feel we so strongly relate to when we see classical architecture. The cornice is the top element in the order. This plays as important a role as the baseboard in having at least the top and bottom parts of the order in place which then acts as a framework to the building or interior space as an architectural entity instead of a square box look which holds no appeal or inspiration of dimension or structural strength. Deciding on what size cornice to use for a room is primarily dependent on ceiling height and the size of the existing trim in the home. In a home with larger baseboards and architraves larger cornice looks more proportionately right than a very small one.

The following is a guide to help with size :

• For the average ceiling height use a cornice with projection and depth dimensions up to 4.5" x 4.5"

• For 8’ 6" ceiling use dimensions up to 6" x 6"

• For 9’ ceilings use dimensions up to 7" x 7"

• For ceilings greater than 9’ 6" use sizes greater than 6" x 6"

Click an image for a expanded view...

	Large Egg and Dart and Dentil #CRL1 Height = 7 1/4" Width = 6 1/2"
	Large Leaf #CRL2 Height = 7 3/4" Width = 5"
	Large Shell and Husk #CRL3 Height = 10 3/4" Width = 4"
	Large Georgian Cove #CRL4 Height = 8" Width = 12"
	Large Acanthus Scroll Frieze #CRL5 Height = 7 1/2" Width = 1 1/4"
	Medium Cove and Dentil #CRM1 Height = 7 1/4" Width = 3 1/2"
	Medium Flower and Acanthus Leaf #CRM2 Height = 6" Width = 5"
	Small Acanthus Leaf #CRS1 Height = 4 3/4" Width = 3 3/4"
	Small Dentil #CRS2 Height = 3 1/2" Width = 2 3/4"
	Small Egg and Dart 1 #CRS3 Height = 3 1/2" Width = 3 5/8"
	Small Flower and Leaf #CRS4 Height = 4" Width = 2 1/4"
	Small Victorian Cove #CRS5 Height = 3 1/4" Width = 4"
	Small Alsage Cove #CRS6 Height = 4" Width = 4 1/4"
	Small Scottish Victorian #CRS7 Height = 4" Width = 3 1/4"
	Small Ogee #CRS8 Height = 3 1/4" Width = 4 1/4"
	Small Egg and Dart 2 #CRS9 Height = 3 3/4" Width = 4"
	Small Cove and Steps #CRS10 Height = 3 1/4" Width = 4 5/8"
	Small Georgian #CRS11 Height = 3 1/4" Width = 2 1/2"