Decorative mouldings may seem like a small detail, but their impact on interior design is undeniable. These architectural accents add depth, character, and a touch of elegance to any space. Whether you’re renovating a classic Victorian home or breathing life into a modern apartment, mouldings are the perfect solution to elevate your design game.
From crown mouldings that lend sophistication to ceilings, to intricate wall panels that offer a creative twist, the world of decorative mouldings has never been more innovative or versatile. Join us as we explore the best decorative mouldings that are trending among interior designers and homeowners alike.
Crown Mouldings—Timeless Elegance with a Modern Twist
Crown mouldings remain a staple in interior design. Positioned where walls meet ceilings, these mouldings frame a room while adding a sense of height and luxury. Historically associated with grand homes, crown mouldings are now enjoying a resurgence thanks to their role in modern and minimalist designs.
Modern crown mouldings frequently feature clean lines and understated designs, making them an excellent fit for contemporary spaces. Meanwhile, more ornate, intricate styles are trending in homes inspired by vintage aesthetics or Art Deco motifs.
Interesting Stat: According to interior design surveys, crown mouldings are used in 7 out of 10 renovations, thanks to their ability to transform mundane spaces into sophisticated settings.
Chair Rails—A Functional and Stylish Divider
Chair rails, traditionally used to protect walls from furniture, have evolved into a decorative element that adds rhythm and character to walls. Placing a chair rail creates the perfect opportunity to experiment with contrasting colors, wallpapers, or textures on the upper and lower portions of a wall.
Interior designers are increasingly opting for unique chair rail profiles to bring their creativity to life. This feature is particularly popular in dining rooms, where it breaks the monotony of plain walls.
Trending Tip: Combine chair rails with wainscoting below for a flawless, stylish look that’s currently gaining traction on platforms like Pinterest and Instagram.
Wall Panels—Redefining Flat Surfaces
Wall panels are trending like never before, offering homeowners rich customization options. From clean, geometric paneling to ornate, carved designs, wall panels can make a bold statement. They’re particularly great for creating feature walls or adding interest to bare hallway spaces.
This trend is also boosted by the growing popularity of sustainable materials in panels. Bamboo and reclaimed wood are increasingly being sought after by eco-conscious interior designers.
Design Note: Panel molding around mirrors or artworks can add an extra layer of visual framing, turning singular pieces into complete wall features.
Baseboards—The Foundation of Any Space
Baseboards are often overlooked, but they serve as the grounding element for a room. They can disguise uneven flooring edges and protect walls, while also making a subtle style statement.
Tall baseboards are trending in modern minimalist spaces, offering bold, clean finishes. Traditional homes, on the other hand, typically benefit from more elaborate designs that mimic classic styles. Pair these with the right flooring for a cohesive, polished effect that elevates the entire room.
Coffered Ceilings—Adding Depth to Overhead Spaces
Coffered ceilings are making a major comeback as homeowners and designers explore unconventional ways of adding dimension. These moulded ceiling panels consist of a grid of sunken sections, creating a stunning architectural feature.
While coffered ceilings were once reserved for grand ballrooms and libraries, modern versions have been adapted for living rooms, kitchens, and even home offices. The use of contrasting paint or materials can further enhance their visual impact.
Fun Fact: Home designers have observed that homes with coffered ceilings tend to fetch 5-10% higher resale prices due to their unique, luxurious appeal.
Picture Rails—Highlighting Creativity
Picture rails are an understated yet highly functional addition for homeowners who love to showcase art collections but want to avoid drilling holes into their walls repeatedly.
These mouldings are installed higher than chair rails and allow artwork to be hung creatively using hooks and string. What’s exciting about picture rails is their ability to change the feel of a space without committing to permanent designs.
Final Thoughts
The best decorative mouldings are those that seamlessly align with your style and purpose, whether it’s a whisper of elegance or a dramatic statement. These quiet heroes of interior design bring balance, creativity, and cohesion to any room.
If you’re considering mouldings for enhancing your interiors, think strategically about how they can function both aesthetically and practically within your space. With trends continuing to evolve, there’s never been a better time to explore the world of decorative mouldings.
