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When building or renovating your home, you face so many decisions. Mouldings and panelling are among one of the most impactful décor choices you can make. Adding mouldings and panelling can add character, depth, and elegance to any space. However, knowing how to choose the right panelling for your dream home can be a challenge. I love adding mouldings and panelling as it refines the space.
In this blog, I have provided you with a comprehensive moulding and panelling guide to help you make the perfect choice for your dream home. The English Panelling Company is a great place to shop for mouldings and panelling.
The difference between Mouldings and Panelling
Mouldings: These are decorative strips used to cover transitions between surfaces or for decorative purposes. They come in various forms, including coving, skirting boards, dado rails, cornices and picture rails and bead mouldings.
Panelling: This involves covering walls or sections of walls with panels of wood for example. Traditional styles include wainscoting, beadboard, and shiplap or tongue and groove.
Things to consider
The Architectural Style of Your Home: The period and architectural style of your home should guide your choices. Victorian homes, for example, suit ornate mouldings, while Georgian homes are complemented by more refined and symmetrical designs. Modern homes, on the other hand, benefit from sleek and simple mouldings and panelling.
Room Functionality: Consider the function of the room. High-traffic areas like hallways and kitchens might benefit from durable and easy-to-clean panelling. In contrast, living rooms and bedrooms can afford more delicate and decorative mouldings.
Ceiling Height: Ceiling height plays a crucial role. Higher ceilings can accommodate more elaborate mouldings and taller wainscoting, whereas lower ceilings benefit from simpler, smaller-scale mouldings to avoid making the space feel cramped.
Types of Mouldings
Coving: Is a prominent architectural feature used to crown or finish the top edge of interior walls, and furniture. It serves both functional and decorative purposes, enhancing the aesthetic of a space. Coving is especially popular in traditional UK homes and can range from simple curves to elaborate designs.
Skirting Boards: These protect walls from scuffs and add a finished look. Tall skirting boards are a hallmark of older homes, while shorter ones suit contemporary styles.
Dado Rails: These are installed mid-wall and can be used to separate two different wall treatments, such as paint and wallpaper. They also add a classic touch to dining rooms and hallways.
Picture Rails: Positioned near the ceiling, picture rails offer a practical way to hang artwork without damaging walls. They also add a touch of elegance to living rooms and galleries.
Bead moulding: Is a type of decorative trim used in various interior design applications to add detail and refinement to walls, ceilings, furniture, and cabinetry. It is characterised by its small, rounded beads or convex half-spheres arranged in a continuous pattern, bead moulding brings a classic and sophisticated touch to any space.
Types of Panelling
Wainscoting: Half-height panelling, also known as wainscoting, refers to a decorative wall treatment where panels cover the lower portion of a wall, typically reaching up to chair rail height, which is around 36 to 42 inches from the floor. This style of panelling serves both aesthetic and functional purposes, providing a visually appealing detail while also protecting walls from scuffs and wear. It's perfect for dining rooms and entryways as it protects against damage from furniture, pets, and everyday activities.
Shiplap: Popular in modern and farmhouse-style homes, shiplap consists of horizontal boards that create a rustic, yet clean look. It's versatile enough for use in any room.
Tongue and groove: Is a popular method of wooden slats together, edge to edge. This technique ensures a tight and seamless fit, providing both structural strength and an attractive finish. Tongue and groove panelling is commonly used for walls, ceilings, and flooring. It can be fitted full height or half height.
Material Choices
Wood: Wood is the most traditional and offers a timeless look. It can be painted or stained to match any décor. However, it can be prone to warping in damp environments.
MDF: Medium Density Fibreboard is a cost-effective alternative to wood. It’s stable and smooth, making it easy to paint. MDF is best used in dry areas as it can swell with moisture.
PVC: PVC mouldings and panelling are perfect for bathrooms and kitchens due to their moisture resistance. They can mimic the look of wood while offering greater durability.
More considerations
Colour Coordination: Ensure that the colour of your mouldings and panelling complements your walls and overall décor. White is classic and versatile, while bold colours can create a striking contrast.
Professional Installation: For the best results, consider hiring a professional. Proper installation ensures durability and a polished look.
Mix and Match: Don’t be afraid to mix different types of mouldings and panelling to create a unique look. For example, combining wainscoting with a picture rail can add both height and dimension to a room. Or Half-height panelling with a mid-rail refers to a type of wall treatment where panels cover the lower half of the wall and a decorative rail, known as a mid-rail or chair rail, separates the panelling from the upper part of the wall.
Full height panelling with a traditional mid rail combines the elegance of panelling that extends from floor to ceiling with the classic charm of a mid-rail or chair rail positioned partway up the wall. This approach offers a blend of historical sophistication and modern versatility, making it an excellent choice for enhancing the aesthetic and functional qualities of a room. Below is an example:
By selecting the right mouldings and panelling, you can add so much character to your space. Whether you prefer the timeless elegance of Victorian coving or the modern appeal of shiplap, there’s a perfect solution for everyone. If you're eager to bring these ideas to life in your home but not sure where to start, I'm here to help. Click the 'Contact' button below to schedule a personal consultation with me. Together, we'll explore your ideas, style, and the unique potential of your space to create a beautiful room design.
Oliver Henley Interiors
Interior Designer Langley | Maidstone | Kent
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