The right crown moldings can add elegance and depth to your home. However, much like any interior design element, there’s a fine line between adding subtly to the room and overpowering the other features. And with the amount of design options and materials on the market, you may be left wondering how to choose crown molding that elevates your interior design. 

That’s why we created this guide. But before we soar into the lofty details, let’s get some fundamentals out of the way. 

What Is Crown Molding?

The very name conjures images of royalty and luxury.  But crown molding is simply a term used to describe the trim that joins a ceiling and a wall. You may have heard of wainscot molding and baseboards—well, you can think of crown molding as a kind of wainscoting for the inside corner of your ceiling. 

So what’s the purpose of crown molding?

Ancient Greek architects originally used crown molding as a way of diffusing differences in the types of materials in a space, but there are other benefits as well. Here are some of the common reasons people throughout the ages have installed this decorative moulding in homes, palaces, temples, and more:

• Adds dimension to a room

• Creates design possibilities and complexity

• Hides imperfections

• Elevates the value of a home

• Imparts grandeur 

• Complements existing design elements

Now that you know a little about the history of crown molding, and some of its benefits, you might be asking yourself how to choose crown molding that complements your current space? 

There are many things to consider when answering that question, from crown molding material and size, to design and location of where the molding should be placed. 

Tips And Considerations For Choosing The Right Crown Molding

No king or queen is complete without their crown. And while we may not be worrying about a tiara, it’s valuable to know all of the aspects that go into choosing a crown molding, including:

• Location

• Materials

• Design and pattern

• Finish

Location

While many people envision crown molding in a spacious living room, a formal dining room, or a grand entrance, crown moldings can be incorporated into any room inside a home. They have the ability to impart prestige, and there’s no sense in leaving out some of the more neglected rooms like the bathroom. 

In fact, recent trends have been looking good for crown molding in just about every room. Here are some common and surprising locations:

• Traditional ceiling-to-wall

• Above wall cabinet or kitchen cabinets

• In showers

• Over archways

And the list goes on. When considering candidates for crown molding, not even the attic is safe.

Materials 

Because the list of molding materials is nearly endless, it won’t be difficult to choose the right crown molding that fits the vision for your home and your budget. Here are the three main categories:

• Stone and Tile – Architectural stone and tile molding deliver a superior aesthetic that is both natural and beautiful. These can be limestone, marble, granite and more. 

• Wood Crown Molding– One of the most popular materials, wood is lightweight and easy to paint.

• Wood Molding Alternatives – Foam, rubber, plastic, and polyurethane, these alternatives are intended to look like wood, and provide moisture resistance and flexibility.

Once you’ve chosen the right materials, it’s time to start thinking about all of the potential designs for your crown moldings. 

Designs And Patterns

Since crown molding refers to any type of molding where the ceiling height and wall meet, there are many different patterns and shapes that can be incorporated into it. One of the best ways to determine how to choose crown molding that will elevate a room is to match other types of trim or baseboard that’s already there. 

• What are these ornamental details telling you? 

• Are they complex or simple? 

• Scrolling or sharp?  

While descriptions can be helpful in determining the right patterns for your crown molding, an easy way to narrow your list is to take a look around your own home. Here are a few places you might find trim elements to complement with crown molding:

• Baseboard

• Windows surrounds

• Door surrounds

• Backsplashes

• Wainscot molding 

• Chair rails 

Additionally, there are numerous classical patterns to choose from, some of which have ancient provenance:  

• Dentil – This pattern boasts a repeating sequence of small, evenly spaced indentations to add a classical decorative touch. Old homes will frequently have this dazzling detail.

• Egg-and-dart  – This classic detailing conjures Greek art and architecture with its alternating oval and V-like shapes. 

• Bead and Pearl – This design features a row of small circles, and frequently occurs with egg-and-dart designs.

Now that you have an idea about location, materials, and patterns for your crown molding, let’s take a look at the icing on the cake. 

Finding The Right Finish

As someone familiar with the world of home remodeling, you know that a finish can be just as important as the crown molding material itself.  We offer a variety of stone finishes that can really put the sparkle in your crown. Here are some of the most popular finishes 

• Honed Finish – The honed finish is becoming increasingly popular because of its contemporary matte aesthetic.

• Polished Finish – A polished finish in marble and travertine is always a favorite.

• French Quarter Finish – The distressed appearance of the tumbled finish is a classic look.

Let Us Crown Your Home

Here at Materials Marketing, we believe that every room should rise to the heights of our imaginations. Whatever your vision, we’ve got the decorative crown molding materials to make it a reality. Get started by browsing our immense library of stones and moldings.

Materials Marketing has been transforming houses into homes since 1965. We join the natural, timeless beauty of stone with your artistic vision to create a custom design for your home that celebrates your vision and style.

Sources: 

1. Pedini Miami. Home Improvement 101: All You Need to Know About Crown Molding. https://www.pedinimiami.com/modern-crown-molding/

2. Remodelista. Remodeling 101: What Is Crown Molding? Plus, What You Need to Know. https://www.remodelista.com/posts/what-is-crown-molding-remodeling-101/

3. Bob Vila. Character Building: A Case for Moldings. https://www.bobvila.com/articles/a-case-for-moldings/