Is there a modern crown molding?

Crown molding is an architectural detail that adds elegance and visual interest to a room. It is installed where the wall meets the ceiling and is often ornately curved or decorated. While crown molding has historically been associated with formal, traditional decor, there are many modern options available today.

What is crown molding?

Crown molding refers to decorative trim that is installed where a wall meets the ceiling. It “crowns” the room by providing an elegant transition between wall and ceiling. The molding is angled on both the top and bottom to properly fit the corner.

Traditionally, crown molding features elaborate, ornate designs. The molding may be carved with decorative scrolls, leaves, flowers, or other intricate shapes. More formal styles often have a complex, layered profile with built-out details.

In contrast, some modern crown moldings have a very clean, simple design. The profile may be half-round or quarter-round rather than ornately layered. The lack of carvings creates a streamlined, contemporary look.

What are the benefits of crown molding?

There are several reasons to install crown molding in a home:

• It provides an elegant transition between the wall and ceiling.
• It adds visual interest and architectural detail to a room.
• It makes ceilings appear taller.
• It enables indirect lighting when installed a couple inches from the ceiling.
• It complements and frames other architectural elements like windows or built-ins.

While crown molding has an upscale, formal look, it can work in many design styles from traditional to modern. The key is choosing the right profile and finish for your decor.

What types of modern crown molding are available?

There are many styles of contemporary crown molding to suit a range of decor tastes:

• Half-round: As the name implies, this has a simple half-round profile. The rounded edge softens the transition between wall and ceiling.
• Shadow line: This style features a recessed channel, or shadow line, that runs the length of the molding. The shadow line adds subtle visual interest.
• Extruded: Extruded molding has a uniform profile made from extruded polymer or wood. The straight, slim shape has a very modern look.
• Step crown: Step crown combines multiple stacked molding pieces for a unique, contemporary statement.
• Cove: Cove molding has an inverted curve shape. The concave profile creates an interesting transition line.

These sleek styles often have unfinished edges and simple profiles. This pared down look fits beautifully in modern, minimalist homes. The subtle shapes put the focus on clean lines instead of ornamentation.

What materials are available?

Crown molding today comes in a wide array of materials:

• Wood: Popular woods include poplar, oak, maple, cherry, and pine. Wood provides a timeless, classic look.
• Polymers: Polymer moldings are made of lightweight PVC, polyurethane, or plastic. Many mimic the look of real wood.
• Plaster: Plaster crown molding offers ornate designs and decorative shapes. Modern options have simpler, less formal profiles.
• Foam: Polyurethane foam crown molding is lightweight, inexpensive, and easy to install. It can be painted or faux-finished.
• Metal: Aluminum or steel molding, often with a powder-coated finish, gives an ultra-modern, industrial vibe.

The material determines the molding’s weight, durability, workability, and appearance. Consider the style of your home when choosing which fits best.

How is modern crown molding installed?

Installing crown molding requires careful measurement, precision cutting, and expert coping skills. Here are the basic steps:

1. Measure the room and purchase enough molding to go around the entire perimeter.
2. Cut the molding to length at precise 45-degree mitered angles.
3. “Cope” the inside corners by intricately shaping the molding ends to seamlessly fit together.
4. Nail the molding in place, ensuring the miters and copes fit tightly.
5. Fill any small gaps with caulk to smooth transitions.
6. Finish by painting or staining the molding to match your decor.

Modern styles minimize elaborate carvings and complex layers, making installation somewhat easier. But precision and an expert eye are still essential. Hiring a skilled trim carpenter is recommended for best results.

Type	Profile	Good for
Half-round	Semi-circular cross section	Contemporary decor
Extruded	Uniform, slim shape	Modern, minimalist spaces
Shadow line	Channel along length	Subtle contrast

This table summarizes some of the most popular modern crown molding profiles and what decor they suit best.

What are the cost factors?

Several factors affect the total cost of installing crown molding:

• Molding material: Wood is generally the most expensive, while foam and polymers are cheaper.
• Molding style: Highly ornate, carved molding costs more than simple profiles.
• Labor: Hiring a professional trim carpenter impacts cost but is recommended.
• Room size: More linear feet to cover means higher total cost.
• Accessibility: Vaulted ceilings or high walls make installation harder.

On average, expect to pay $4-$12 per linear foot for materials plus $40-$80 per hour for professional installation. The total for an average 10×12 room would be $1200-$4000+. Get quotes from several contractors before deciding.

Ways to reduce cost:

• Choose simpler molding profiles without ornate carvings.
• Use less expensive materials like foam instead of wood.
• Install crown only in key areas instead of the entire room perimeter.
• Paint existing crown molding instead of replacing it.

What are the alternatives to crown molding?

If cost or modern design preferences make crown molding unappealing, consider these contemporary alternatives to create an architectural transition between wall and ceiling:

• LED cove lighting: Installing LED strip lights in a recessed channel can cast a dramatic glow.
• Wood or metal panels: Angled panels in materials like wood, aluminum, or corrugated metal create interest.
• Wallpaper: Use a textured, patterned wallpaper or decal along the ceiling line.
• Paint or stencil: Paint, stencil, or hand-paint a decorative band where wall and ceiling meet.
• Plaster bands: Streamlined plaster molding attached to drywall offers subtle shadow lines.

For a lighter touch than traditional crown, these easy modern solutions enhance the transitional space and complement minimalist interiors.

Conclusion

While crown molding is often associated with formal, ornate decor, there are many modern options that can fit beautifully in contemporary homes. Clean-lined styles in materials like wood, plastic, or metal create architectural detail without over-the-top carvings. Less expensive choices like foam trim also open up possibilities. Whether you opt for sleek, subtle shadow lines or a bold cascading step design, modern crown molding can provide the ideal finishing touch.