What is a kitchen cornice?

A kitchen cornice is a piece of decorative wood that is fitted to the top of a wall unit or larder unit. It is a continuous piece of wood, similar in length to a plinth. Typically between 2.5 and 3 metres. It can be cut down, or two pieces joined together to create a longer cornice.

Cornice can be fitted, as in the picture, running along the front of the wall units, then cutting back at 90 degrees, finishing at the wall. Alternatively it can be fitted butting up to an end panel, for an alternative finish. These two types are purely down to preference as they are purely decorative. 

Do I have to fit Cornice?

No, cornice doesn't have to be fitted on to wall units and larder units. Once again it's down to personal preference. Traditional kitchens are still typically fitted with cornice, however more modern kitchens are often fitted with either multi-purpose rail (a plain, square edge rail) or with no cornice at all.