Architectural,Design Ideas | April 3, 20071 Comment

Design Tip: Architectural Changes Make a Difference

Here’s a before and after for you, which illustrates the importance of architectural elements like doors and molding. Just so you know, this was not the finished look (and that lamp went bye-bye).

My clients wanted a look that was conservative, but updated. They were thinking of new wallpaper, carpet and some furniture. But I was looking at the doors, the skimpy molding and the overall boring quality. The doors looked like they belonged to a bedroom closet, not a fine entryway. So, I suggested they begin by changing out the doors to a 6-panel style, add a wainscot and spruce up the molding. They also needed new hardware as the existing hinges had been painted over.

My clients abandoned the wallpaper idea (for budget reasons, wallpaper would have looked nice) in favor of the new molding. Look at the difference. The stairway now has real presence. The new doors, the beefed up base, ceiling and door molding and the wainscoting give the space a more formal and grander look.

To create the look of real wainscot without the heavy price, we placed the trim pieces directly to the wall. Then, we painted it a warm white in a semi-gloss finish. The warm tone of the paint enhanced the warm qualities of the floor.

Once the artwork, lamps and an area rug were added (no photos sadly), the room came together. So, when you’re thinking that your hallway (or bedroom!) needs new paint, don’t forget to consider the frame on which the walls rest.