Molding is one of those details that adds definition, style and design to any room. Something as simple as door or window trim can define the style of a room. For example, wide planks with a natural stain can give a room a rustic or country ambiance whereas creamy white fluted trim and bull nose corners lend a more traditional feel. But door and window trim is just the beginning: There are many ways to use trim to bring an air of luxury and elegance to an interior.
Let’s explore some ways to bring beauty and style to a dining room.
Simulate High-priced Wall Panels
Use strips of molding with mitered corners to create the elegant look of high-priced wall panels at a fraction of the cost. Plan your design first on paper and then lay it out on the wall with blue painter’s tape; this gives you a chance to tweak the design. Boxes within boxes or boxes around decorative medallions or fleur de lis will add dimension and definition. You can also use trim to create panels around wall paper or contrasting paint. The color you choose for the molding itself can add contrast or subtle interest. The easiest way to paint the molding without damaging the wall color is to cut the molding and paint it, then install it with small trim nails. When finished, touch up your nail holes with a small paint brush.
A Classic Chair Rail
A chair rail around the perimeter of the room protects the wall and adds a decorative touch that lets you add stylish detailing to the room. You can choose to paint the area above the rail in a different color from the area below, or use wallpaper above and paint or wainscoting below.
A Narrow Display Shelf
Crown molding can be used to create a narrow shelf on the dining room wall that is perfect for displaying framed photos or art, decorative plates, figurines, candles or other accessories. This type of shelving not only provides you with many decorative options, the low profile of the shelves does not protrude into the space as deeply as standard shelves.
Finishing Touches on the Ceiling
For the crowning glory in the dining room install crown molding around the perimeter or the ceiling. Crown molding automatically makes any room more formal and you’ll find crown molding with very elaborate detailing such as classic dental or egg and dart molding. Look to the overall style of your dining room or details in an adjoining living room to create continuity in style. Crown molding can be painted in a contrasting color to draw attention or it can be painted the same color as the wall or ceiling.
A ceiling medallion is another trim piece that can add great style to your dining room. Typically made of resin, a ceiling medallion is mounted on the ceiling around the base of your ceiling fixture, and it lends the elegance of artisan crafted plaster detailing to your ceiling. Paint it to blend or contrast with the ceiling or rub the edges with a little metallic paint to give it high drama.
