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Writer's pictureAron Pinto

7 Smart Ways to Add Architectural Details To Your Home

One of the biggest perks of becoming a homeowner is making the space your own. From furniture choices, to paint colours and décor – the style options are endless. But what happens if your new home is missing some key architectural details to go with the style you have in mind?

Architectural details are small design elements – like a stone fireplace or decorative trim – that have the power to characterize and define your entire home. And while newer homes offer lots of advantages they can lack these special touches.

The good news is however that adding them is not as hard – or as expensive- as you might think. Here’s a look at some great ways you can add architectural details to your home and truly make it a reflection of you.

Consider Crown Moulding and Wainscotting

Modern interior with Miami Art Deco molding with indirect lighting; Modern molding ideas; Art Deco interiors inspiration

Crown moulding is likely the first architectural style that comes to mind, and for good reason. Details like crown moulding or wainscoting are timeless additions to your walls that will last for years.

If you’re into DIY projects, you can install a peel-and-stick crown molding to your walls, or add a faux wainscoting look with a chair rail molding and some paint. For a different take, you can frame your windows with a type of molding called casings. Not a DIY-er? Talk to a licensed contractor who can help design and install crown molding or wainscoting to your home without the hassle.

Choose Contrasting Colours

When deciding on a colour palette for your home, choose contrasting colors for added depth. You can easily create contrast throughout your home with stark variations in paint or furniture choices. Think white walls against a black floor or dark-finished cabinets with light-coloured countertops.

Add Texture to Your Walls

If contrasting colours aren’t your style, consider texture when it comes to your walls. Many painters can add texture to an otherwise plain wall with paint techniques to help add dimension. If texture isn’t your game, think about adding an accent panel using stonework or mosaic tiles.

Hang Drapery for High Ceilings

One of the easiest ways to add architectural style to your home is by hanging drapery around your windows. By hanging drapes a few inches below the ceiling it will draw your eyes upward, making your walls and ceilings look taller. Adding drapes will also highlight the beauty of the windows in your room and create a cozy feel no matter the season.

Replace the Hardware on Your Cabinets

Another quick DIY home project to change up your interior style is to switch the hardware on your cabinets and drawers. From sleek silver handles to intricate bronze knobs, the options are endless. Replacing the hardware on your cabinets is a quick way to add simple, yet eye-catching architectural details to your home.

Get Creative with Your Doors

Upgrading the doors in your home can bring a whole new architectural dimension to your space. For a simple approach, a fresh coat of paint can make a big impact on your home’s style. However, if you’re looking for a larger project, think about having your doors replaced with something more unique. Think reclaimed wood doors, sleek sliding doors, or reused barn doors. These changes will instantly transform the architectural details of your home from the moment you step inside.

Upgrade or Install a Fireplace

Adding architectural details to your fireplace will bring warmth – literally and figuratively – to your living space. Spruce up your fireplace’s mantel by painting it a contrasting color to your walls, or frame your fireplace with bricks or natural stone.

If your home doesn’t have a fireplace, contact a handyman or contractor who can discuss your options for installing a fireplace in your home. Or, go the DIY route and add a faux electric fireplace instead – there are some great ones out there, and they look very real in many cases. They also allow you to add the charm of a fireplace in less expected places, like the kitchen, bathroom or bedroom.

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