The space where the wall and ceiling meet is sometimes forgotten when homeowners are designing their bedroom décor. Without coving, these seams might appear awfully exposed.

Cornice mouldings can provide a gorgeous architectural aspect to boring bedroom ceilings, even though other characteristics might be more immediately evident at eye level. There is no better example of this than the ‘Principal Bedroom’ at the WOW!house 2023.

WOW!house, (known as the Oscars of the Design world), is a unique showhouse, built within Chelsea Harbour. Its 18 full-size rooms are created by world-class interior designers and we were proud to showcase our Swan Neck Coving (code LPC073) in the Principal Bedroom designed by Natalia Miyar. This bedroom was the epitome of elegance and sophistication.

The vibe was serene, decorated in 15 different shades of green, it was cosy but also glamorous. The colour palette was uplifting and soothing, adorned with a collection of paintings and ceramics.

Our swan neck coving was the ‘icing on the cake’, adding contrast and depth to the room. If you want to add the ‘wow factor’ to your boudoir, coving is the way forward.

Why is Coving used in the Bedroom?

The use of coving in the bedroom can create a soft and romantic atmosphere. Coving can also be a great solution for hiding an unsightly bedroom curtain track or pole, creating a sleek and stylish look. 

Plaster coving or cornice is an architectural detailing element that instantly elevates the overall aesthetic of any bedroom. Whether you choose a simple or an ornate design, coving will add a touch of grandeur and sophistication to an otherwise plain and uninspiring ceiling. 

Unlike other design trends that may come and go, plaster coving retains its appeal and adds value to your home. Coving is a must in our opinion - bedrooms look unfinished without it.

Coving styles 

We have a wide range of cornice styles; Egg & Dart, Dentil & Modillions to Floral & Ogee. Coving can be used to reflect your home’s style and personality, whether it be a grand Edwardian home, or a contemporary abode, we have coving to accommodate all tastes.

Our range of patterns are available in various sizes, profiles range from contemporary designs to the more traditional.

For the bedrooms of Georgian and Edwardian homes and where there are higher ceilings and traditionally a plainer plaster cornice would have been used, our Victorian Swan Neck Drop 170mm (LPC017) is a very popular choice. For modern houses, where the ceiling heights tend to be lower, MPC046 works very well - this is a classic 90mm drop.

How to Measure & Prepare Your Bedroom for Coving Installation

There are three measurements to understand when buying coving / cornice for your bedroom. Firstly the Drop (depth) from the ceiling down the wall, secondly the Projection from the wall across the ceiling and finally the Width (diagonal) across the face of the coving.

Coving is sold by the Drop size. If for example you want 200mm (eight inch) coving in width you’ll actually need to be look for a design with roughly a 150mm Drop and Projection. The most popular sizes of plaster coving that we sell have a drop between 90mm and 120mm.

After measuring up your bedroom it’s very important to allow an extra 20% for wastage, mitring and to produce the best finish possible.

We are more than happy to send coving samples; you’ll then know exactly what you’re buying; its size, quality and how it will look in your bedroom. You can also show this to your fitter.

How to install Coving in the Bedroom

Fitting fibrous gypsum plaster cornice is a skilled job and not all builders or plasterers are experienced enough to do it. A tradesman who specialises in fitting this type of coving is known as a ‘Fibre hand’. 

If you choose to undertake this as a DIY project, we have created helpful videos with professional coving installer, Mark Draper. Mark showcases the necessary steps to fit your coving & cornice and helpful tips.

How to Blend Coving with your Bedroom Décor

The size, orientation, and personal preferences should all be taken into consideration when deciding how to decorate a bedroom. 

Pendant lights (or chandeliers) are ideal for rooms with high ceilings. Flush fixtures will be required in rooms with low ceilings. Table lamps next to the bed introduce task lighting, which is perfect for reading. For smaller bedrooms, choosing bedroom wall lighting options, like sconces and pendant lights, might be better.

Popular bedroom colours range from delicate whites, greys, or other light neutrals to shades of blue and green. It is important to evoke a sense of serenity and relaxation in a sleeping environment. 

We highly recommend painting your coving (don’t forget it’s advisable to wait at least 24 hours after installing). Whether you like to stick to tradition or make a statement, there are endless design opportunities when it comes to adding colour to your bedroom cornice. 

Painting the coving and ceiling the same colour gives the impression of a slightly lower ceiling; painting moulding and walls in the same colour, by contrast, has the opposite effect and making the walls appear taller.

Adding accent colour to your coving will create a border between the wall and ceiling. If you have a minimalist décor throughout your bedroom, a touch of colour will add dimension. 

Easy Maintenance Tips for Bedroom Coving

Keep your coving looking immaculate by using lukewarm water and a mild detergent to gently sponge down the surface.

Potential Challenges to using Coving in the Bedroom

Keep windows wide-open, (weather permitting) for about 2 days after installing / painting to avoid unwanted exposure to coving adhesive or paint fumes.

Benefits of using Coving in the Bedroom

Adding plaster coving to your bedroom can significantly increase its market value. The timeless beauty and architectural details are widely sought after by homebuyers who value exquisite craftsmanship and sophisticated aesthetics. 

You’ll be impressed by the sense of luxury cornice brings to the bedroom, whether you choose a smooth finish or opt for a more intricate design with decorative elements, plaster coving brings a noticeable touch of sophistication.