EDesigns Custom Interiors

Designed for gracious living today and tomorrow.

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EDesigns Custom Interiors
                                                    Designing with Architectural Detail

Today’s homes lack the art of decorative ornamentation that was part of the architectural detail designed into the homes of the past as a part of the original blueprints. These architectural details were an integral part of the interior design and created beauty and a style that reflected the character of the exterior of the home. The trend today is homes that have only the simplest architectural details such as baseboard trim and plain door casings. With a good design plan and the help of a skilled craftsman for installation, adding these missing details can enrich your home. Built-in bookcases with trim detailing can elevate that plain room into a much loved office or library. Envision a room that offers space for organizing your books and is a wonderful curl-up and enjoy a good afternoon read space. It doesn’t have to be a large room if it is designed to invite you in; if there is a comfortable chair and a good lamp you have created a favorite getaway.
 
 
  

 

Another area that is often not finished or only partly finished is the fireplace area. Very often you will find a fireplace surround that is plainly tiled with matching                                                                                    tiled hearth. There may be a
mantle with no detailed design perched above the surround. More often than not there will be an area for the entertainment equipment that also lacks style. Imagine the same area with a detailed surround accented by carved trim, corbels, stone or decorative tiles and a mantle that has the same styling details. Add to this a coordinating entertainment center providing function and style; the room now
has a richer completed feel.             

                                                                                                       

          When you are planning your decorative details remember the basic decorating considerations of style, size and balance. If you love period decorating the details should lean toward that style. Also keep in mind the basic style of your homes exterior. Some architectural details have been adapted into many different styles. Columns are typically classical but they work as well in Georgina, Victorian and contemporary interiors.  Size and proportion to your room must also be balanced so as not to overwhelm the area or be too small and insignificant. When planning the various moldings make sure they coordinate and lend a sense of balance and unity to your design scheme.
Look around your room, remember all the details you have seen and loved in other rooms.                                         Your room might be enhanced with a simple nook to display a collection. Or maybe you might enjoy a unique built-in bookcase area going up the staircase wall.

 
Another option might be an architectural salvage piece used to add a decorative touch when hung on the wall. These pieces could be carved wood or even metal pieces that you find on an antique market treasure hunt. Whatever your budget, you can add architectural interest to your home with a little planning and creativity.


 
 
 
 

Elizabeth Dinges