When it comes to transforming a space that is boring and flat, adding character and depth to walls with molding is the perfect choice. It’s an easy way to add personality and highlight specific areas throughout your home.

Of course not every design style works - modern, minimalistic and mediterranean styles not so much. But today we are talking about spaces that look better with the addition of molding and in this blog post, I will talk about various types of molding and show you some pictures with beautiful use of it.

Wall molding, also known as trim, refers to decorative and functional elements used to enhance the appearance of walls in interior spaces. Molding is typically made of wood, although it can also be made from other materials like plastic or foam. It is installed along the edges of walls and ceilings, adding character, elegance, and definition to a room.

Here are some common types of wall molding:

1. Crown Molding: Crown molding is installed where the walls meet the ceiling, softening the transition between the two surfaces. It often has intricate designs and adds a touch of sophistication to a room.

2. Baseboard Molding: Baseboard molding is placed at the bottom of walls, where they meet the floor. Its purpose is both aesthetic and practical, as it protects the wall from damage and covers the joint between the wall and the floor.

3. Chair Rail Molding: Chair rail molding is installed horizontally on walls, usually at a height of about 30 inches from the floor. It was traditionally used to protect walls from damage caused by chairs but is now more commonly used for decorative purposes.

4. Picture Rail Molding: Picture rail molding is installed near the top of walls, and it serves as a practical way to hang pictures or artwork without the need for nails or hooks directly in the wall.

5. Wainscoting: Wainscoting involves using decorative panels (usually wood) on the lower portion of a wall, often accompanied by a chair rail above it. This technique adds elegance and interest to a room's design.

6. Panel Molding: Panel molding is used to create decorative panels on walls. It can be arranged in various configurations to achieve different looks, such as raised or recessed panels.

7. Beadboard: Beadboard is a type of paneling with narrow vertical planks that have a beaded design. It is often used to give a room a more rustic or cottage-style appearance.

 

Wall molding can be painted or stained to match the room's decor, and it comes in many different styles and sizes to fit different architectural preferences. The installation process may involve cutting, mitering, and nailing the molding to the wall, patching and painting or staining and it is often done by skilled carpenters or experienced DIY enthusiasts. Definitely not something I would try to tackle myself! Molding only looks great when it's done properly and there are some rules of proportion, but I won't get into that because I don't know enough and it would be an even longer post. If you are interested there is an article you can click on HERE and read more.

Make sure the style of the millwork selected matches the architecture and aesthetic of your home. One thing is important - make sure when installing, your home is consistent throughout. The baseboard, crown, and casing should all feel cohesive and proportionate.

Conclusion

Adding character to walls with molding is a great way to transform basic spaces into beautiful interesting ones. I definitely have a soft spot for this spaces I chose to show in these pictures. I like how this spaces look solid, well constructed and with history.

 

Soledad Alzaga Interior Design