{"id":28625,"date":"2024-07-12T10:42:35","date_gmt":"2024-07-12T09:42:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.oakfurnitureland.co.uk\/blog\/?p=28625"},"modified":"2024-08-20T15:25:06","modified_gmt":"2024-08-20T14:25:06","slug":"add-architectural-character-to-your-home","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.oakfurnitureland.co.uk\/blog\/general\/add-architectural-character-to-your-home\/","title":{"rendered":"Add architectural character to your home: expert tips from Skirtings R Us"},"content":{"rendered":"

Enhancing your home with architectural details can transform any space, infusing it with personality and timeless charm. From adding classic architrave and skirting to incorporating the unwavering trend for faux panelling, these considered touches create a distinctive and inviting aesthetic.<\/p>\n

Whether you\u2019re enhancing a room, renovating a whole house to restore its original features, or moving into a new build, explore our guide alongside expert architectural joiners from Skirtings R Us<\/a> for practical tips and creative ideas to fill your home with character.<\/p>\n

Understanding the Basics<\/h2>\n

\"Living
\nParquet sideboard<\/a> | @atnumerfourteen<\/a><\/p>\n

Architectural details are the finishing touches that bring personality and elegance to home. These elements, often rooted in historical design, add layers of interest and refinement to any space. However, the terminology can sometimes be confusing, so understanding the basic vocabulary is the first step to effectively incorporating these features into your home.<\/p>\n

What are architraves and cornices?<\/h3>\n

\"A
\nParquet bedside table<\/a> | @rachelsorbyhome<\/a><\/p>\n

An architrave is the moulding situated around a door frame. Often, plaster is right against a doorframe, or not completely intact so the architrave covers and disguises the join between the plaster and doorframe. Similarly, cornices are mouldings that sit at the juncture of walls and ceilings, adding elegance and sophistication to rooms of any period.<\/p>\n

What\u2019s the difference between a picture rail and a dado rail?<\/h3>\n

\"Oak
\nParquet chest of drawers<\/a> | @709_design<\/a><\/p>\n

A picture rail is fixed to the wall above head height and was traditionally used to hang pictures. These rails tend to feature a radius all the way over the top edge for hooks to sit, allowing you to mount artwork.<\/p>\n

In contrast, a dado rail is set at waist height and was originally used as a capping for half-wall panelling as well as protecting the wall against the back of chairs.<\/p>\n

Panel Like a Pro<\/h2>\n

\"\"
\nMorgan sofa<\/a> | @51stinthemanor<\/a><\/p>\n

Wall panelling is a beautiful way to add depth, texture, and character to your home\u2019s interior. From grand historic homes to contemporary spaces, panelling can enhance the aesthetic of any room. With various types of panelling available, it can be challenging to know which style best suits your space. So, here are some pointers to making an informed decision\u2026<\/p>\n

Traditional Panelling<\/h3>\n

\"A
\nHenley desk<\/a> | Henley sideboard<\/a> | Harper chair<\/a><\/p>\n

The traditional style is made completely from timber, with the frame of the panelling (uprights and horizontal lengths) rebated to hold internal panels, which traditionally may have been \u2018raised and fielded\u2019. This craftsmanship-intensive style is visually stunning but quite expensive.<\/p>\n

Matchboard Panelling<\/h3>\n

\"Oak
\nBrompton bed<\/a> | Brompton tallboy<\/a> | @a_house_and_its_chows<\/a><\/p>\n

This design is manufactured either as a large sheet of MDF with the match board pattern machined into it, or as individual pieces of timber with a tongue and groove shape added, so each piece fits together.<\/p>\n

Faux Panelling<\/h3>\n

\"\"
\nNewton bedside table<\/a> | @rigbyresidence<\/a><\/p>\n

The faux approach involves creating squares out of mouldings and fixing them to your wall, then painting the wall the same colour as the architectural details. This method is becoming increasingly popular, seen across many interior design Instagram accounts, and is a relatively affordable and easy way to make a significant impact in your room.<\/p>\n

Can You Create Panelling with Dado or Picture Rails?<\/h3>\n

\"Cream
\nAshby sofa<\/a> | @ourruralnest<\/a><\/p>\n

Both dado and picture rails can be used to create a faux panelling appearance. This involves arranging them into squares on a wall and painting them the same colour as the backdrop. Another option is to use a moulding like an astragal<\/a> to achieve this look.<\/p>\n

\"Mint
\nEvie sofa<\/a> | @new_build_forever_home<\/a><\/p>\n

DIY panelling top tips<\/h3>\n