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What Is an Architrave? Purpose, Styles & Benefits Explained

What Is an Architrave? Purpose, Styles & Benefits Explained

Architraves are an essential finishing touch in interior design, often overlooked but playing a crucial role in enhancing the aesthetic appeal of doors, windows, and openings. Whether you are renovating a period property or designing a contemporary home, choosing the right architrave moulding can make a significant difference.

An architrave is a decorative moulding that frames doors and windows, concealing gaps while enhancing interior aesthetics. Available in various styles, from modern to period designs, it complements skirting boards and provides a polished finish. MR Mouldings offers a wide range of high-quality architraves for any home.

In this guide, we will explain what an architrave is, its purpose, the different styles available, and how to install it properly. We will also explore the high-quality architrave mouldings available at MR Mouldings, helping you find the perfect fit for your home.

What Is an Architrave?

An architrave is a type of interior moulding used to frame doors, windows, and other openings. It serves both a decorative and practical function, covering the gap between the door or window frame and the surrounding wall.

Traditionally, architraves were an architectural feature in classical buildings, where they added elegance and structural detail. Today, they are widely used in modern, minimalist, and traditional interiors, offering a clean and polished look.

MR Mouldings offers a range of architrave profiles, from classic to contemporary designs, ensuring there is an option to complement any home style.

The Purpose of Architraves

Architraves provide more than just a decorative border around doors and windows. They offer several key benefits:

1. Aesthetic Enhancement

  • Frames doors and windows, creating a more polished and finished appearance.

  • Adds architectural detail that can enhance both traditional and modern interiors.

  • Available in various styles, from minimalist profiles to intricate period mouldings.

2. Covers Imperfections

  • Hides gaps between the door frame and the wall, ensuring a seamless transition.

  • Prevents cracks from appearing over time as materials expand and contract.

3. Protects Walls and Door Frames

  • Reduces wear and tear by shielding edges from scuffs and knocks.

  • Ideal for high-traffic areas, such as hallways and living rooms.

With MR Mouldings’ range of durable architraves, you can ensure a flawless, long-lasting finish.

Types of Architrave Profiles

Choosing the right architrave depends on your home’s style, skirting boards, and personal preference. MR Mouldings provides a variety of profiles to suit all interior aesthetics.

1. Torus Architrave

  • Features a simple, curved profile.

  • Ideal for both modern and traditional homes.

  • A practical and cost-effective option.

2. Ogee Architrave

  • Decorative, S-shaped profile.

  • Best suited for classic, Victorian, and period properties.

  • Adds an elegant, detailed touch.

3. Chamfered Architrave

  • Features a subtle, angled cut.

  • Perfect for minimalist and contemporary interiors.

  • Offers a sleek and modern appearance.

4. Bullnose Architrave

  • Soft, rounded edges.

  • Ideal for modern homes and clean aesthetics.

  • Smooth finish, making it easy to clean and maintain.

5. Period and Heritage Architraves

  • Victorian, Edwardian, and Georgian styles.

  • Highly decorative and suitable for restoring older properties.

  • Available in taller profiles to enhance high ceilings.

MR Mouldings stocks high-quality MDF and solid wood architraves in all these styles, allowing you to achieve a perfect finish in your home.

How to Choose the Right Architrave for Your Home

1. Consider Your Interior Style

  • Modern interiors – Opt for chamfered or bullnose profiles.

  • Traditional homes – Choose Ogee or Victorian designs.

  • Minimalist spaces – Go for Torus architraves for a simple, elegant look.

2. Matching Skirting Boards and Architraves

For a cohesive design, it’s important to match your architrave profile with your skirting boards. MR Mouldings offers a wide range of matching mouldings, ensuring a seamless transition throughout your home.

3. Choosing the Right Material

  • MDF Architraves – Cost-effective, durable, and resistant to warping.

  • Solid Wood Architraves – Provides a natural, premium finish but requires more maintenance.

  • Pre-finished Options – Available at MR Mouldings to reduce installation time.

How to Install Architraves: A Step-by-Step Guide

Installing architrave mouldings is a relatively straightforward DIY project with the right tools.

Tools Required:

  • Measuring tape

  • Mitre saw

  • Wood adhesive or nails

  • Filler and sandpaper

Installation Steps:

Step 1: Measure and Cut the Architrave

  • Measure the door or window frame and mark the correct lengths.

  • Cut the architrave using a mitre saw at 45-degree angles for corners.

Step 2: Fix the Architrave in Place

  • Apply wood adhesive or nails to secure the architrave to the frame.

  • Ensure it sits flush against the wall for a seamless fit.

Step 3: Fill Gaps and Sand

  • Use decorator’s caulk or wood filler to smooth over joints.

  • Sand any rough edges before painting.

Step 4: Paint or Finish

  • Apply a coat of paint, stain, or varnish to match your home’s decor.

MR Mouldings offers pre-primed and ready-to-paint architraves, making installation quicker and easier.

FAQ’s 

What is the difference between an architrave and a skirting board?

  • Architraves frame doors and windows, while skirting boards run along the base of walls. They work together to create a unified look.

Can I replace old architraves with new ones?

  • Yes, upgrading architraves is a simple and effective way to refresh your interiors.

Do architraves have to match skirting boards?

  • Not necessarily, but choosing complementary profiles ensures a harmonious design.

Are MDF architraves better than solid wood?

  • MDF is more affordable, resistant to warping, and easy to paint, while solid wood offers a premium, natural look.

Does MR Mouldings offer custom architrave sizes?

  • Yes, MR Mouldings provides a variety of heights, widths, and finishes to suit different spaces.

Conclusion

Architraves are an essential decorative and functional feature in home interiors. Whether you prefer a modern, minimalist look or a more traditional design, the right architrave moulding can enhance your space significantly.

At MR Mouldings, we provide high-quality architrave profiles in various styles and materials, ensuring a perfect fit for every home.

Explore our range of architraves today and transform your interiors with expertly crafted mouldings.

 

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