One of the easiest ways to upgrade a ho-hum home is through the clever use of architectural elements. Details like textured walls, detailed ceilings, and interesting archways infuse charm and personality into otherwise ordinary spaces. Whether you rent or own, there are many ways to enhance your home and make a statement with architectural elements.
Painted Ceilings and Doors
Paint is an easy way to change up your space. Whether you opt for bright pops of color or a neutral color scheme, paint is a relatively inexpensive way to make a big impression. Paint isn’t just for walls, however. Consider painting ceilings and doors as well! A painted ceiling in a small powder bath will make the room appear taller and more spacious. For impact, choose a bold or contrasting color on the ceiling. To create a more subtle interest, choose either a shade darker or a shade lighter the wall color.
Moldings and Chair Rail
Detailed trim work and moldings are great ways to add texture to your walls and ceilings. An arched doorway is enhanced with the addition of trim and corbels. Adding baseboards, chair rail and crown molding to a builder-grade home create instant personality. Trim and moldings come in a variety of budget-friendly materials from wood to PVC. Intricate, thick crown molding can also be “faked” by using a combination of paint and smaller trim pieces.
Architectural Lighting
Lighting is often overlooked as an architectural element but it’s one of my favorites! From lamps to chandeliers, lighting fixtures serve a dual purpose — form and function — and with a little creativity, they can also be the focal point in your space. For recessed lighting, consider replacing the standard white trim package with a metal-like antiqued bronze or polished brass. Chandeliers become statement pieces with the addition of a ceiling medallion.
Wallpaper
Wallpaper and wallcoverings provide both homeowners and renters with colorful, textured solutions for ordinary walls. There are many options on today’s market — including removable vinyl wallpaper! Wallpaper and wallcoverings can be used in any room and provide an especially impressive impact in small spaces such as home offices and powder baths. A versatile decorating tool, wallpaper can be used inside closets, on ceilings, and on the backs of bookshelves and pantries. If the thought of a fully-wallpapered room is intimidating, create an accent wall instead. It’s an easy way to inject some excitement into your space without going overboard.
Pro Tip: While wallcoverings are made of heavier, textured materials like woven textiles and grasscloth, wallpaper is made from actual paper which naturally is less durable but also less expensive. Wallcoverings are also sold in longer lengths and therefore, will have fewer seams and less waste. Despite their differences, both are viable design solutions for a wide range of styles, from fun and funky to stately and traditional.
Furniture With Character
Never underestimate furniture’s ability to create architectural interest! Most people primarily think of comfort and function when it comes to furniture but they’re missing out on a major opportunity to infuse charm and personality into their home through their furniture’s details. Adding intricate trim or furniture-style legs to a kitchen island transforms it from a utilitarian work surface to a custom piece of furniture. Sofas become pieces of art when their silhouettes and structures are highlighted with turned legs and bun feet. Metal-framed armchairs provide a modern edge to an otherwise traditional living room. Side tables made of stone make a strong statement both indoors and out. The next time you are furniture shopping, pay special attention to the details including the legs, backs, seats, arms, and feet. Do any of their shapes mimic shapes already present in your space? Do any of the shapes contrast? Considering these details in relation to your home is a great way to broaden your style palate.
In my next post, I’ll discuss a problem area for many people: the small space. Small spaces get a bad rap but they’re truly one of my favorites to design because they’re challenging and require outside-of-the-box thinking. I’ll show you how to get the most out of your small space without sacrificing your style, function and budget.
Until then,
Laura
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