Wall Moulding Ideas

Crown Molding

Crown molding is one of the most identifiable types of molding and provides a classic, elegant look to any room. It is used to cover the area where the wall meets the ceiling and is an ideal way to mark the transition between two different paint colors. Crown molding typically comes in three parts, consisting of angled edges and a wide, flat main section because it fills the intersection of wall and ceiling at an angle. It is available in a variety of styles, ranging from clean and modern to detailed and ornate. If your room has a plain, basic look that you want to spice up, crown molding may be your best option.

Chair rail is a good fit if you want to create a break in the center of your wall. Typically applied in a horizontal direction approximately 36 inches above the floor, its primary function is to guard the wall in case a chair back slams into it. However, you can use it purely for decorative purposes. If you plan to paint the top half of your wall one color and the bottom section another shade, chair rail provides a transition between the two. It can also create a division between wallpapered and painted sections of wall. Chair rail is available in a range of styles, from smooth and flat to beveled and ornate. For a finished look, you may combine it with other molding or wall coverings, such as wall panels or wainscoting. Chair rail is often used in dining rooms or kitchens.

If you wish to give your room a grander presence or simply add texture to your wall, paneling may be your best option. Wall panel is trim or molding that covers an entire wall or a section of a wall. It comes in a variety of materials, including beadboard, panels, frames, plywood or tongue and groove boards. A common way to use wall paneling is to cover the bottom portion of the wall with it. This type of paneling is known as wainscoting and usually covers the bottom one-third or two-thirds of the wall. Wall paneling often features rectangular or square shapes that provide texture and character to the wall. You can paint it to match the rest of the wall or leave it with a natural wood finish depending on your preference.

If you plan to hang framed artwork, picture rail molding is the obvious choice for your walls. This style of molding features a rounded edge, so you can easily secure picture-hanging hooks on it. The molding is usually placed high on the wall so your artwork lays at the same height that it would if you nailed it to the wall. You can apply it by itself or pair it with crown molding for a truly polished look.