There are those among us who relish a clean-lined room. Unembellished walls and ceilings, large windows lacking mullions, and wide doorways, if there are doorways, that provide that open-space floor plan feel. I know you are out there, so I am recognizing you at the outset, because this column may not be one that you reference often.

This column is more for the individuals who lean toward classicism, who may or may not reside in a historic home, but who are drawn to spaces that are delineated with compelling architectural features. These features add interest to a space, but more so, they define a space with a myriad of patterns, profiles, styles, and applications and that transform a room from a simple white carton to an exquisite jewel box. What am I talking about, you might ask?  I am talking about architectural trims and moldings.

My own stone Colonial, built in 1945, was located on a quiet street, beautifully landscaped, and most importantly solidly built. The only drawback was that the rooms were devoid of any and all architectural detail. The windows were small, and the doors were flat, surrounded by the most basic of door casings….clamshell.  But my vision was long…..6 to 12 feet long, to be exact. Because those were the lengths needed to put character into my new home.

Yes, anyone can go to extreme lengths to add interest to a space. I am not talking about Versailles here. I am talking about creating a thought-provoking, intriguing backdrop that will serve as an appropriate setting to well thought out furnishings and seating. 

Of course, you can consider “picture frame moldings” that are proportionally laid out to give a wall dimension, and often act to highlight artwork.  Or you can consider just a chair rail and baseboard, that can not only accent an otherwise boring stretch of space but, if done properly can serve as a protection and add visual height to a room. 

But for the sake of simplicity, I am recommending one critical architectural detail that can give any room – contemporary or historic, modern or traditional – a specific way to delineate its boundaries, but more so, to define its character.  That is “crown molding”.

In my estimation, there is no other architectural feature more important to a space.  And the good news is that crown moldings come in numerous sizes, styles and profiles that can reference a historic period, pay tribute to a noted architect, or simply mark a transition between the wall and ceiling.

Depending on the height of your room, the size of the crown can vary anywhere from 12” to 6”, proportionally, but I always think that if you are going to spend the money, go big.

Adding architectural features to a space is a sure way to set any room apart. Historically these trims would be painted in an accent color. Today, unless you own a Victorian, my suggestion would be to paint the walls and trims all one shade, allowing for the molding’s individual patterns to highlight themselves. I am suddenly mesmerized by rooms that are resplendent with trims but painted totally in a high or semi-gloss white, a sure way to have both historic character and a modern vibe combined, which is surely the best of both worlds.

Patricia Cove is Principal of Architectural Interiors and Design in Chestnut Hill, which specializes in the renovation and restoration of historically significant spaces and can be reached through her website: patriciacove.com.