Almost every homeowner is looking for a quick remodel fix that is both inexpensive and beautiful at the same time. While it may seem like an impossible combination, the simple truth is that designer wood moulding can provide both. Whether you’re looking for something a bit traditional or real elegance, wood moulding can help. It can help to enhance space, create character, or even add warmth. Before you buy, though, the key is to understand what might look best within your home.
Your Architectural Style
One of the most important factors as you choose moulding to meet your needs is the style of your home. For example, if you have a home with colonial architectural elements, you’ll want to go with a moulding choice to match. The same is true for a contemporary home or a mission-style one. Because mouldings can look so different, choosing one that looks great with your current style is essential if you really want to tie things together. Not sure exactly what your style is? Do a bit of reading about classical elements within each style or ask your contractor for a bit of help nailing things down.
The Space
The right style is important, but so is exactly where you want to put it. Different kinds of mouldings have different profiles, or the shape it actually forms when it’s viewed from one end or the other. There are four basic types of mouldings to consider: baseboard, chair rail, crown, and casing. Baseboard moulding typically goes at the bottom of the wall. A chair rail is typically placed where the wallpaper or wainscoting ends. Crown moulding typically goes around the top of the room, but it can also be placed in other locations around the room for that beautiful added touch you want. Casings go around windows and doors to help frame the space.
You may also want to note that some mouldings have certain added benefits. Chair rails, for instance, can help protect your wall from scrapes while still enhancing the elegance of any room. Casings actually work to hide the seams where the door or window jamb meets the wall.
Dress it Up
Mouldings on their own are beautiful, but there are lots of add-ons to consider getting also for that unique touch. Rosettes, for instance, can replace mitered corners. You can also introduce plinth blocks and base blocks to the picture where door casings and base mouldings meet.
If you’re looking for a quick way to change the look of a room, designer wood moulding is the only way to go.