Square Set vs Cornices: What You Need to Know for Your Bathroom Renovation
When planning a bathroom renovation, most people focus on tiles, tapware and layout—but there’s one subtle design choice that can seriously impact the final look and feel of your space: how your ceiling meets your walls.
Should you go with a square set ceiling for that clean, modern aesthetic?
Or choose traditional cornices to soften the transition and add character?
Both options have their pros and cons—but more importantly, each one requires different prep work, trades and budget considerations. So, if you’re a first-time renovator, this is a decision you need to make early on.
Let’s break it down.
What’s the Difference?
Square Set Ceilings
A square set finish is where the wall and ceiling meet with a crisp, 90° edge—no cornice in sight. It gives a minimal, architectural feel and is popular in modern bathrooms and new builds.
Cornices
Cornices are the decorative mouldings that bridge the join between wall and ceiling. They come in a range of styles—from simple and subtle to ornate and traditional—and are commonly used in older homes or classic-style renovations.
Why the Difference Matters in Bathrooms
Your ceiling finish impacts more than just aesthetics. It affects:
How your ceiling is plastered
How waterproofing and paint interact at the ceiling junction
Trade timelines and costs
The final design vibe of the room
And since bathrooms are often smaller spaces, details like ceiling transitions become more noticeable—especially above your vanity or shower area.
Consider This Before You Decide
1. Square Set = Clean, Modern… but Costlier
Square set ceilings require a higher level of plastering skill. Your plasterer will need to:
Create a sharp, perfect 90° edge with no moulding to hide behind
Often use metal angles or trims to support the finish
Spend more time sanding for a smooth, flawless result
This means more labour and material costs—but it also delivers a beautiful, seamless look that suits minimalist bathrooms.
💬 Great for: Contemporary designs, homes with high ceilings, small bathrooms where you want a sleek look.
2. Cornices = Traditional, Easy and Budget-Friendly
Cornices are more forgiving. They help mask any imperfections between wall and ceiling and are much quicker to install.
They’re available in plain, modern profiles or more decorative shapes
Great for adding softness to the room
More cost-effective, and easier to paint around
💬 Great for: Period homes, cost-conscious renovations, or when you want a little more detail at the ceiling line.
3. Bathroom-Specific Details to Watch
Waterproofing: Square set finishes need extra attention in wet zones to avoid cracking where walls and ceiling meet.
Paint finish: Square set corners often require a Level 5 plaster finish, which is more labour-intensive and expensive.
Ventilation: With square set, make sure there's adequate airflow or exhaust to prevent moisture build-up and ceiling edge issues over time.
When to Make the Decision
👉 Before plastering starts.
Why so early? Because your ceiling choice affects:
How your ceiling sheeting is installed
Whether your plasterer needs to quote for a square set finish
Paint prep and waterproofing sequences
Changing your mind late in the game can cost you time, money and rework.
✅ Our Advice for First-Time Renovators
Choose square set ceilings if you’re chasing a clean, modern aesthetic and are happy to budget a little more for finish quality.
Stick with cornices if you want to save on labour, keep things simple, or if you’re renovating a home with existing cornices in other rooms.
Either way—decide before your plasterer starts, and make sure your builder knows the plan from the beginning.
P.S We know planning a bathroom renovation can be overwhelming!
Stay organised, save money, and avoid costly mistakes with our all-in-one renovation template!
