10 Tips For Choosing Architectural Details in Your Home
One of the best perks of becoming a homeowner is making the space your own. From furniture choices, to paint colors and décor – the style options are endless. But what happens if your home is missing some key architectural details to go with the style you have in mind?
Architectural details are small design elements – like a stone fireplace or decorative trim – that have the power to characterize and define your entire home. Choosing the right architectural style for your home may seem overwhelming, but don’t worry – we’re here to help. So, whether you’re living in a new construction home in Sacramento, CA, or a modern condo in Atlanta, GA these 10 ideas will help you add the perfect architectural details to your home.
1. Start with Classic Crown Molding or Wainscoting
Crown molding is likely the first architectural style that comes to mind, and for good reason. Details like crown molding or wainscoting are timeless additions to your walls that will stick throughout the years. If you’re into DIY projects, you can install a peel-and-stick crown molding to your walls, or add a faux wainscoting look with a chair rail molding and some paint. For a different take, you can frame your windows with a type of molding called casings. Not a DIY-er? Talk to an architect or licensed contractor who can help design and install crown molding or wainscoting to your home without the hassle.
2. Choose Contrasting Colors
Photography: Samara Vise | Interior Design: Mattye DeWhirst
When deciding on a color palette for your home, choose contrasting colors for added depth. You can easily create contrast throughout your home with stark variations in paint or furniture choices. Think white walls against a black floor or dark-finished cabinets with light-colored countertops.
3. Add Textured Walls for Architectural Details
If contrasting colors aren’t your style, consider texture when it comes to your walls. Many painters can add texture to an otherwise plain wall with paint techniques to help add dimension. If texture isn’t your game, think about adding an accent panel using stonework or mosaic tiles.
4. Create a Gallery Wall or Picture Rail
Photography: Samara Vise | Interior Design: Mattye DeWhirst
Get creative with your photos and art by making a gallery wall. Strategically placing your photos on the wall is an art on its own, one that an interior designer can help you out with. Consider adding a picture rail to your wall if you’re looking for something a little more permanent. That way you can display your art and décor along the walls while also incorporating crown molding. A picture rail will be a statement detail no matter how many times you’ve changed the photos.
5. Hang Drapery for High Ceilings
One of the easiest ways to add architectural style to your home is by hanging drapery around your windows. By hanging drapes a few inches below the ceiling it will draw your eyes upward, making your walls and ceilings look taller. Bonus, adding drapes will highlight any windows in your room and create a cozy feel no matter the season.
6. Replace the Hardware on your Cabinets
Products: Decorative Cast Iron Cupboard Knob & Oriental Oval Bin Pulls