Crown molding has been a popular decorative detail in homes for centuries. Recently, some homeowners have started installing crown molding on kitchen cabinets as well. But is this trend actually stylish, or is it just a fad? There are pros and cons to consider when deciding whether to add crown molding to kitchen cabinets.
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The history and purpose of crown molding
Crown molding refers to decorative trim that is installed where a wall meets the ceiling. It creates an elegant transition between the vertical and horizontal surfaces. Crown molding dates back to ancient Greek and Roman architectural designs. In the 18th century, crown molding became fashionable in European homes and mansions. Colonists later brought the tradition to America.
The ornate trim served both form and function. Not only was it decorative, but it also helped conceal uneven junctions between walls and ceilings. It became a hallmark of finely crafted architecture and design.
Today, crown molding remains a timeless detail found in many upscale homes. It’s most commonly used in fancier spaces like dining rooms and living rooms. Installing crown molding requires precision cutting and fitting. The cost and labor involved make it a significant investment.
The rising trend: Crown molding in kitchens
In recent years, some homeowners and designers have been extending the use of crown molding beyond the main living spaces. Kitchens, in particular, are getting the crown molding treatment. This allows the kitchen decor to match the rest of the home’s elegance.
There are a few factors driving this trend:
- Open floor plans – With fewer walls between rooms, there’s a desire for seamless, continuous design elements throughout the main living areas.
- Luxury kitchens – Gourmet, high-end kitchens have become statement showpieces in many homes. Crown molding helps achieve that upscale look.
- HGTV, social media – Home design TV shows and online spaces like Pinterest feature gorgeous kitchens with crown molding. This exposure fuels interest and demand.
- Increased DIY skills – More homeowners are taking on their own remodeling projects, thanks to DIY education resources. Ambitious DIYers can install kitchen crown molding themselves.
The visual impact of taking crown molding beyond the usual living room or dining room into the kitchen is striking. This design move makes the kitchen blend in beautifully with surrounding areas that have crown molding. It creates a polished, upscale impression.
The case for crown molding on kitchen cabinets
Here are some of the benefits of adding crown molding to kitchen cabinetry:
- Classic appeal – Crown molding is a timeless, elegant detail that suits any traditional or formal kitchen style.
- Cleaner sightlines – Crown molding conceals the joint where cabinets meet the ceiling. This gives a built-in, streamlined appearance.
- Added dimension – The extra trim brings depth and architecture to otherwise flat, boxy cabinets.
- Visual interest – Decorative crown molding creates a focal point and prevents monotonous, unbroken cabinetry.
- Flexibility – Crown molding can coordinate with cabinet doors and hardware finishes for a cohesive look.
- Restrained option – For kitchens with ornate cabinetry, crown molding balances the decor without going overboard.
- Lighting enhancer – Shadow lines created by crown molding can accentuate under-cabinet lighting attractively.
Kitchen crown molding essentially elevates and completes the cabinetry. It gives the cabinets an integrated, built-in impression. The added detail and dimension dress up plain cabinet boxes. Crown molding can bridge varying cabinet styles, unifying old and new sections seamlessly.
The case against crown molding on kitchen cabinets
However, there are also some drawbacks and cautions regarding crown molding on kitchen cabinets:
- Modern styles – Crown molding may clash with contemporary, minimalist kitchen designs. The added trim can feel visually heavy.
- Dark colors – Darker color schemes can overwhelm a kitchen’s dimensions. Crown molding may compound the closed-in effect.
- Low ceilings – Rooms with low headroom can feel cramped and crowded with additional trim details.
- Extra cleaning – Molding in a cooking area demands regular dusting and vacuuming to keep clean.
- Moisture issues – Excess humidity from cooking can damage delicate crown molding over time.
- Cost – Professionally installing quality molding is an expensive investment, especially for larger kitchens.
- Difficult DIY – Precisely measuring and cutting crown molding takes skill and specialty tools.
Crown molding fundamentally changes the look and feel of a kitchen. For some homeowners, the classic ornate style is exactly the right fit. For others seeking a sleek, unfussy space, crown molding may feel overly decorative and distracting. It also represents a significant expense and remodeling commitment.
Trend predictions
Like with most home design trends, crown molding’s popularity likely depends on personal style preferences. Here are some predictions for where the trend may go in the future:
- Crown molding will remain a staple in formal, traditional kitchen designs but won’t dominate modern styles.
- Other types of decorative trim like wall panel molding or corbels may grow as alternative options.
- Instead of full crown molding, more DIYers may opt for simpler cove molding for a subtler accent.
- Open-plan living spaces will drive demand for continuous molding visual flow between rooms.
- Innovations like foam molding may make installation easier and more affordable.
Many designers predict crown molding has lasting staying power for anyone seeking a touch of timeless elegance. But alternatives will likely gain ground for cost and design flexibility. The trend may shift from ornate crown molding in every kitchen to strategic statement applications.
Deciding what’s right for your kitchen
At the end of the day, there’s no universally “right” or “wrong” choice when it comes to crown molding. It comes down to personal preferences and kitchen style. Here are some key considerations as you decide:
- What’s your kitchen decor – traditional vs. contemporary?
- What are your kitchen’s dimensions and ceiling height?
- Do you cook extensively and need an easy-clean space?
- Do you enjoy dusting and keeping decorative trim clean?
- Are you willing to invest in a major remodeling project?
- Will continuous molding improve sightlines in your open floor plan?
View photos of crown molding on kitchen cabinets to visualize the look. Analyze your existing kitchen features. Decide whether added ornamentation enhances or competes. An expert kitchen designer can help assess options like partial molding or less costly trim accents. In most cases, a cohesive, well-executed design aligned with your lifestyle surpasses chasing temporary trends.
Conclusion
Crown molding on kitchen cabinets is a detail gaining traction in high-end, designer kitchens. The added trim brings architectural interest and a touch of elegance to cabinetry. But it also comes with downsides like cost, maintenance, and suitability for all home styles. Crown molding ultimately represents a personal design choice. For those favoring a formal, integrated kitchen look, crown molding can beautifully tie together built-ins. For others prioritizing a sleek, contemporary, easy-clean space, skipping crown molding makes sense. Consider your kitchen’s existing features, lifestyle needs, and design vision. Then decide whether this trendy extra trim suits your tastes.