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A decorative molding can be defined as any continuous projection that is used to enhance the look of a wall. In early time, they were first used to throw water away from the wall. The contours, measurements, and projections of moldings vary greatly. One type of molding - the frieze (or frieze board) - was first used on the Parthenon at the Acropolis. The frieze is considered a part of the Greek architectural style. The frieze panels are a series of designed pediments which are filled with the images of Athena's birth and rise to power. Today, a frieze board is the flat panel just below a crown molding or cornice. Often, low relief is applied to this panel for added decoration. Today, frieze moldings are most common as a portion of a decorative molding that follows the neoclassical architecture or decorating style. You need a pretty high ceiling (minimum of 9 feet), and it's a good idea to paint or stain the frieze and the crown molding the same color. The frieze is a good way to visually bring the ceiling down and make the room appear cozier. Crown molding is the most popular type of cornice molding. Crown molding is generally a single-piece of decorative molding, installed at the top of a wall, at an angle to the adjoining ceiling. However, I have seen crown molding assemblies of 5 or more pieces in more elaborate settings. Crown molding often has a profile that projects out on the ceiling and down the wall, adding a rich appearance to a room. It is often used at the top of cabinets or built-in furniture. Introducing this type of decorative molding to a relatively simple room provides a historic character that the room would not otherwise have. Crown molding is also used in combination with other moldings to add details to fireplace mantels and shelves. (For what it's worth, this is probably my favorite architectural feature). Crown molding is a form of Cornice Molding. The term "cornice" describes molding installed along the top of a wall or above the window. When this treatment is made from multiple pieces of molding, it is called a "build-up cornice." The other form of cornice molding is the Cove Molding. Cove molding is very similar to crown molding, with the same application and function. The difference between the two is in the profile. Cove molding has a concave profile (which bows inward) while crown molding has a convex (outward) profile. While crown is most at home in traditional settings, Cove moldings are equally comfortable in country, or even contemporary settings. You don't normally see multi-piece assemblies of cove moldings. You can occasionally see it "beaded" at top and bottom for a little accent. Entries, formal living rooms, formal dining rooms, and master bedrooms usually receive decorative moldings with ornate or traditional patterns. Decorative Trim Molding - Kitchens and other more functional areas of the home might be where you will find the simpler design of the cove molding. Over the years, coves and crowns have become much smaller, but most still bear the shapes and styles of the original Greek and Roman designers. A chair rail is a decorative molding that divides a wall horizontally, usually about 32" to 36" above the floor. They protect the walls in areas where damage might occur from people getting up out of chairs. For this reason, the more traditional chair rails will have a nosing in the center, with curved and beveled surfaces that taper back to the wall above and below the nosing. Today, chair rails remain a common detail in traditional interiors. They serve the decorating effect of unifying the various architectural details of a room, such as door and window trim, and fireplace surrounds. Chair rail can also be used as a cap for wainscoting or other wood paneling. This decorative molding adds a feeling of detail and charm while achieving continuity in a room by unifying the various decorative elements. About the Author: Decorative Trim Molding - Crown-Molding.com is an online millwork and molding store for Profile Supply, with offices in Calais Maine USA and Bridgewater Nova Scotia and various warehouses spread across the United States. Sourcing products through our many manufacturers and factories means significant savings for our US direct customers.
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decorative molding, decorative trim molding, dentil block, dentil molding, door casings, door header, door molding, door pediments, door surround, eas,
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