Putting crown molding on top of your kitchen cabinets is a popular way to add visual interest and character to your kitchen. Crown molding creates attractive shadow lines and can make your cabinets look more finished and high-end. However, crown molding is not necessarily right for every kitchen. Here are some key considerations when deciding if you should add crown molding to your cabinets.
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The pros of adding crown molding to cabinets
- Enhances the style and beauty of your kitchen by adding architectural detail
- Makes your cabinets look more expensive and custom
- Creates the illusion of taller ceilings by leading the eye upwards
- Conceals the junction between the cabinets and ceiling
- Comes in various styles to match your kitchen’s design aesthetic
- Relatively affordable way to update the look of your existing cabinets
- Easier to install than replacing cabinets entirely
- Can modernize dated cabinets by adding a fresh new element
The cons of adding crown molding to cabinets
- Added cost for materials and labor if professionally installed
- Challenging for DIY-ers to cut and install properly
- Can make small or low-ceilinged kitchens feel more closed in
- Darker crown can make cabinets feel heavy if the kitchen has a light, airy aesthetic
- More cleaning and dusting required to keep the tops of cabinets looking their best
- May not match new cabinets if you replace them down the road
Factors to consider
Kitchen size and ceiling height
Crown molding tends to work best in medium to large kitchens with standard 8 ft. ceilings. The added trim helps fill visual space and prevents tall cabinets from feeling overwhelming or awkwardly tall. However, in small kitchens with low ceilings, crown molding can make the space feel busier and more closed in. Carefully consider your kitchen’s proportions.
Cabinet design and placement
Standard rectangular cabinets mounted directly against the wall work best with crown molding. Diagonal, curved, or uniquely shaped cabinets may not pair as seamlessly with traditional molding. Also consider the gap between your cabinets and ceiling. Crown molding helps bridge small gaps, but may look strange if there is a very wide space between your cabinets and ceiling.
Kitchen style and aesthetics
Crown molding looks best in traditional kitchens and can clash with contemporary designs. However, some simpler, more subtle molding profiles can complement a variety of styles. Pay attention to the other elements in your kitchen like hardware, countertops, and backsplash and choose molding to match the overall aesthetic.
Budget
Professionally installing crown molding costs $800-$2,500 depending on labor rates in your area and how many linear feet of cabinets you have. DIY installation can reduce costs but requires expertise to cut the molding well. Consider whether the added expense fits into your overall kitchen remodeling budget.
Installing crown molding on cabinets
Hiring a professional
Most carpenters, contractors, and professional installers can add molding to your existing cabinets cleanly and precisely. Hiring out installation typically costs $3-$8 per linear foot including materials and labor. Pros have the expertise to handle challenging corners, uneven walls, and tricky installations. This option eliminates the frustration and uncertainty of DIY projects.
Doing it yourself
With patience and the right tools, crown molding can be a DIY project. You’ll need a miter saw, finish nails, wood filler, caulk, and wood glue. Watch online tutorials to learn techniques for measuring and cutting the molding. Allow extra time and material for mistakes. Doing it yourself can save 50-75% on costs compared to hiring a professional.
Maintenance
Over time, crown molding requires some minor maintenance to look its best:
- Dust frequently using a soft brush or microfiber cloth to prevent buildup.
- Wipe down every few months with a mild cleaner and damp cloth.
- Use painter’s tape to protect the molding when painting walls.
- Touch up caulk periodically to prevent gaps or cracks.
- Repaint or restain as needed if the molding appears worn or faded.
Proper cleaning and occasional touch-ups keep your crown molding looking fresh.
Popular styles of crown molding
There are many crown molding profiles and edge styles to choose from. Consider the following popular options:
SimplegetProfile
A simple square profile provides a clean, modern look. This versatile style works with numerous kitchen designs from traditional to contemporary. It creates subtle shadow lines and a little visual interest without overpowering the room.
Traditional Ogee
Ogee molding has an elegant S-curve that flares out near the top. This ornate style adds flair and a sense of luxury to formal, elegant kitchens. It pairs well with raised panel cabinet doors. Ogee molding can feel too ornate for casual kitchens.
Roped Fluted
Roped fluted has rounded edges with vertical concave grooves. The unique shape catches light beautifully. This timeless molding style works with everything from farmhouse to contemporary spaces. It provides noticeable detail without overwhelming a room.
Beaded
Beaded molding incorporates a carved bead design that mimics oval shapes. The rhythmic detail creates visual movement and interest. Beaded molding has an old-world, ornate feel perfect for traditional kitchen designs. The intricate profile can feel busy in more modern spaces.
Choosing the Right Height
Crown molding comes in a range of heights to suit your kitchen’s proportions. Follow these guidelines:
- 3 1⁄2”-5 1⁄2” for 8 ft. ceilings
- 5 1⁄2”- 8” for 9 ft. ceilings
- 8”-12” for cathedral or vaulted ceilings
Taller molding helps a kitchen feel grander and draws the eyes upwards. However, oversized molding can feel imposing in small rooms.
Matching Moldings Throughout the Home
For a cohesive, elegant look, use matching crown molding in adjoining spaces like formal dining rooms. However, small variations in molding profiles can add appropriate visual interest in less visible areas like powder rooms. Balance similarity with carefully chosen unique details.
Conclusion
Crown molding can transform ordinary cabinets into a custom built-in look. But it also requires a commitment of time, money, and maintenance. Carefully weigh the pros and cons for your specific kitchen. Crown molding makes sense for larger, traditional kitchens but can overwhelm small contemporary spaces. Install with care to avoid accentuating uneven walls or ceilings. Simple, well-installed molding adds beautiful detail. Done poorly, it looks messy and distracting. Crown molding offers gorgeous potential, but only with thoughtful planning tailored to your kitchen’s size and style.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Enhances style and beauty | Added cost |
| Makes cabinets look custom | Challenging DIY project |
| Draws eye upwards | Can make small kitchens feel closed in |
| Conceals cabinet/ceiling junction | More cleaning required |
| Variety of styles | May not match if you replace cabinets |
| Relatively affordable update |
| Style | Profile | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Simple | Square | Modern kitchens |
| Ogee | Elegant S-curve | Formal traditional kitchens |
| Roped Fluted | Rounded with grooves | Versatile classic style |
| Beaded | Carved oval shapes | Ornate traditional kitchens |