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Wall moulding can take your walls from a flat stage to a work of architectural art. But beyond aesthetics, it offers a surprising number of benefits that go beyond simply creating a nice atmosphere. Let's dive into the world of wall moulding and explore why it might be the perfect addition to various rooms in your home.
The Case for Wall Moulding
Wall moulding isn't just for stuffy mansions dripping with old money charm. It can add depth and architectural interest to any space, regardless of whether your style leans towards mid-century modern or cosy farmhouse. Here's how wall moulding can truly transform your home:
Create a Focal Point: Let's face it, some walls are just plain boring. Strategic placement of wall moulding can draw the eye to a particular feature on your wall, like a fireplace begging to be the centre of attention, or a piece of artwork crying out to be admired. Think of it as a spotlight for your favourite design elements.
Enhance Proportions: Does your living room feel like a never-ending tunnel because of that crazy high ceiling? Wall moulding can be your friend. By incorporating horizontal lines, you can create a visual illusion that lowers the ceiling and makes the space feel more balanced and intimate. Conversely, if you have a room with a short ceiling that makes you feel like a hobbit, vertical moulding can create the illusion of height, making the room breathe a little easier.
Add Built-in Shelving: Not only can wall moulding add visual interest, but it can also be surprisingly functional. By combining moulding with panels, you can create beautiful and functional built-in shelves. This is a perfect solution for displaying books, family heirlooms, or that ever-growing collection of travel trinkets. It's a space-saving and stylish way to add storage without resorting to bulky bookcases that can crowd a room.
Hide Imperfections: We all have those little imperfections in our homes, whether it's a hairline crack or a minor drywall mishap. Strategically placed wall moulding can help camouflage these minor flaws, creating a more polished look without the need for a major renovation project.
Looking for some wall decor inspo? Read our article about limewash walls or take a look at our gallery wall ideas.
Wall Moulding 101
Wall moulding installation isn't brain surgery, but it's not exactly slapping together a piece of Ikea furniture either. Here's a quick rundown for the ambitious DIYer who wants to tackle this project:
Planning is Key: This may seem obvious, but it's worth repeating. Before you grab your saw and start hacking away at expensive moulding, take some time to sketch out your design. Measure your walls meticulously, ensuring everything will line up perfectly. Remember, even a small miscalculation can throw off the entire look, so take your time and get it right on paper first.
Moulding Selection: Now that you have your dream design on paper, it's time to translate it into reality. But before you head to the hardware store and toss the first box of moulding you see into your cart, consider the material. Common moulding materials include wood, MDF (medium-density fiberboard), and even PVC. Wood moulding offers a classic look and can be stained or painted to match your décor, but it's also the most expensive option. MDF is a more budget-friendly alternative that's easy to work with, but it can't be stained and may not hold up as well in areas with high moisture. PVC is a water-resistant option that's perfect for bathrooms or kitchens, but it doesn't offer the same warmth and character as wood. Consider your budget, the style of your space, and the functionality of the room when making your material selection.
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Cutting with Confidence: Once you've chosen your moulding champion, it's time for the not-so-fun part: cutting. Here's where precision is key. Invest in a good quality mitre saw. This power tool will allow you to make clean and precise cuts at the necessary 45-degree angles for your corners. If you're not comfortable using a mitre saw, there's no shame in asking a friend for help or hiring a professional for this step. Remember, a bad cut can ruin a whole piece of moulding, so it's better to be safe than sorry.
Attaching the Moulding: Now that your moulding is perfectly cut, it's time to attach it to your wall. Use a strong construction adhesive specifically designed for moulding. While adhesive will do most of the heavy lifting, consider adding nails for extra security, especially on longer pieces or on ceilings. Just be sure to place the nails strategically so...they can be easily covered with caulk during the finishing stages. When attaching the moulding, work in sections and ensure everything is level before moving on. Don't be afraid to use a level religiously throughout the process.
Finishing Touches: Once your moulding is securely attached to the wall, it's time to address those minor imperfections and create a seamless look. Apply painter's caulk along any gaps between the moulding and the wall, ensuring a smooth and professional finish. Once the caulk is dry, use a damp cloth to remove any excess. Now comes the fun part: painting! You can paint your moulding to match your trim for a cohesive look, or you can create a contrasting pop of colour for added drama.
Styling Your Wall Moulding
Now that your moulding is installed and looking sharp, it's time to have some fun and style it to your liking! Here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing and help your wall moulding truly shine:
Painting with Personality: Don't be afraid to break away from the beige and experiment with bolder colours. Painting your moulding a contrasting colour can add a touch of drama and draw the eye to specific architectural features. For a truly modern look, consider painting the moulding black for a graphic statement.
Embrace the Unexpected: Wall moulding doesn't have to be confined to straight lines and perfect rectangles. Play with unexpected moulding placements to add visual interest. Try installing moulding on a diagonal for a dynamic look, or use it to create a decorative frame around a doorway or window.
Mix and Match Profiles: Who says you have to stick to one type of moulding? Experiment with combining different moulding profiles for a layered and visually interesting look. This can add depth and dimension to your walls, particularly in larger rooms with high ceilings.
Accessorise with Flair: The final touch to your styled wall moulding masterpiece? Accessorise! Depending on the placement and purpose of the moulding, consider adding shelves to display artwork or family photos. In a dining room, picture rails can showcase decorative plates or artwork.
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Finding the Perfect Room for Wall Moulding
While wall moulding can add sophistication and functionality to almost any room in your house, there are some spaces where it truly shines. Here's a room-by-room guide to help you decide where to incorporate wall moulding for maximum impact:
Living Rooms: Living rooms are the heart of the home, and wall moulding can add a touch of grandeur and sophistication that sets the perfect stage for entertaining or relaxing. Consider framing your fireplace with moulding to create a focal point, or use chair rails to visually define different seating areas.
Dining Rooms: Transform your dining room from a place to eat to an elegant space for entertaining with the help of wall moulding. Picture rails are a classic touch in dining rooms, providing the perfect spot to showcase artwork or heirloom plates. Wall moulding can also be used to create a wainscot effect on the lower half of the wall, adding a touch of formality.
Home Offices: Who says your home office can't be both stylish and functional? Wall moulding can help create a focused and productive environment. Consider adding chair rails to define your workspace, or use vertical moulding to create the illusion of height in a room with a low ceiling.
Entryways: Your entryway is the first thing guests see when they enter your home, so make it count! Wall moulding can add a touch of architectural detail and create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Consider framing your doorway with moulding, or use wainscoting to create a sophisticated backdrop.
Choosing the Right Colour for Wall Moulding
The colour of your wall moulding can significantly impact the overall feel of the space. Here are a few pointers to help you choose the perfect colour for your project:
Classic Contrast: For a timeless look, try painting your moulding white or another light colour against dark walls. This creates a crisp contrast that adds definition and elegance to the space.
Subtle Sophistication: If you prefer a more subtle look, consider matching the colour of your moulding to your trim for seamless integration. This creates a cohesive flow throughout the room and allows other design elements to take centre stage.
Bold Statement: Don't be afraid to use colour to make your wall moulding a focal point. Paint it a contrasting colour that complements your overall décor. This can be a great way to add a pop of personality and draw the eye to specific architectural features. For example, a bold blue moulding can add a touch of coastal charm to a beach-themed living room, while a deep red moulding can add drama and sophistication to a formal dining room.
Considering the Existing Colour Scheme: When choosing a colour for your wall moulding, it's important to consider the existing colour scheme of the room. The moulding colour should complement the wall colour, trim colour, and any other major design elements in the space. For example, if your walls are a light greige and your trim is white, painting the moulding a crisp white will create a clean and cohesive look. However, if your walls are a deep navy blue, you might consider a bolder option for the moulding, like a crisp white or even a metallic gold, to create a touch of glamour.
Working with an Interior Designer
While wall moulding can be a rewarding DIY project, navigating the complexities of design, material selection, and proper installation can be daunting. Here's when it might be wise to enlist the help of a professional interior designer:
Conceptualising a Stunning Design: If you're struggling to conceptualise a design for your wall moulding, an interior designer can help translate your vision into a reality that complements your space and your style. They can help you choose the right moulding profiles, determine the placement, and suggest colour schemes that will elevate your entire room.
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Sourcing the Perfect Materials: With their experience and industry connections, interior designers can source high-quality moulding materials that fit your budget. They'll know where to find the perfect type of moulding for your desired look, whether you're set on classic wood or a more modern option like MDF.
Achieving Flawless Installation: Perhaps the most significant benefit of working with an interior designer is the peace of mind that comes with professional installation. They'll have the expertise and connections to hire skilled contractors who can ensure your wall moulding is installed flawlessly, with precise cuts, seamless joins, and a beautiful finish. This can save you time, frustration, and potentially even money in the long run, as correcting mistakes in moulding installation can be a costly endeavour.
Our Final Thoughts
Wall moulding is a powerful design tool that can elevate the look and feel of your home in more ways than one. It can add visual interest, create focal points, enhance proportions, and even offer built-in storage solutions. Whether you're a seasoned DIYer who tackles the project yourself or prefer to enlist the help of a professional designer, wall moulding can be a worthwhile investment in the beauty and value of your space. With careful planning, the right materials, and a touch of creativity, you can transform your plain walls into stunning works of architectural art.
Need help with wall moulding? Book one of our Interior Design Gurus for a 30-minute video call. Transforming your home into a space you love shouldn't be a daunting task. With HiiGuru you can save time, avoid costly mistakes and bring your goals to life with experts by your side.