Modern Architrave | Architrave | Contemporary

Modern Architrave

Architrave is a decorative moulding popularly used to trim around door frames and archways, concealing the joint and any shrinkage or movement that may occur between the wall and the casing. It has become increasingly seen in modern homes where it adds a touch of elegance, as shutters have replaced curtains in many homes. The latest architraves come with a pre-finished prime coat application which means they are ready for paint after installation with no need for priming, whilst our MDF Architraves are suitable for staining as well. 

If you're looking to maintain a modern interior while on a budget, look no further than MDF skirting and architrave. It's the most popular material on the market, allowing homeowners to achieve a high-quality look while staying within their budget. Offering a range of shapes and sizes to choose from, MDF skirting and architrave ensure the latest interior design trends are achievable without sacrificing quality or breaking the bank. 

Contemporary Door Architrave

A door architrave is a decorative element that surrounds the perimeter of a door frame. It serves to enhance the appearance of the door and complements the overall design of the room. Contemporary door architraves are modern and sleek in appearance and are often used in minimalist or contemporary interior design.

Contemporary door architraves can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and PVC. They are often characterized by their clean lines, simplicity, and lack of ornate details. Some contemporary door architraves are even designed to be flush with the wall, creating a seamless and minimalistic look.

Modern Skirting Board Ideas

Choosing architrave and skirting boards with modern, minimal design profiles is vital to achieving a contemporary look. With such a wide range of styles to choose from, it can take time to select the right one. However, by focusing on architraves and skirtings that have minimal details, such as mitred jointed architraves or elegant ogee skirting, you may find something that really catches your eye. Primed architraves and more comprehensive butt-jointed skirting board profiles also offer a modern sophistication that could elevate the interior decor in any home.

Chamfer architrave has been long admired for its graceful lines, while also providing a timeless look that can match modern style. The tapered top neatly creates perfect boundaries without dominating the interiors, making it popular in contemporary and classic spaces. For areas where skirting height is slightly lower, Edge architrave may be preferable due to its similar design but somewhat smaller rise - giving the architrave a more refined finish overall. Roux architrave is one of the most sought-after architraves in this day and age, offering a unique geometric pattern that can look impressive when adorned with natural wood tones or primed white services. Skirting 4 U provides an exclusive option for this architrave and other modern skirting boards and accessories - ensuring every inch of your space looks stylishly inviting.

When it comes to architrave and skirting for your modern interiors, the 'standard' size of 120mm high x 18mm thick is always a great recommendation. Any smaller than this and you lose the balance of proportion within the room- 70mm x 15mm is about as far down as you can go before needing to consider your architraves and skirtings more as feature elements. When thinking along the lines of minimalism for something more contemporary, opting for a pre-finished prime white skirting board is really the only way to go; it's classic, clean and slick and is, without doubt, the most effective solution.

Should Architrave match doors?

When it comes to skirting, many people generally opt for an architrave that complements the skirting design. Fortunately, our skirting range has plenty of matching architraves to choose from. All you have to do is select your desired skirting style - whether primed MDF or other material - in the 4 drop-down boxes provided and you’ll be given 10 options right away. Consider the width of your skirting and door frames when making a selection, as an architrave that fits too close to a wall may leave little room. 

When installing skirting boards and architraves, it is essential to ensure that the architraves are always as thick, or thicker than the skirting board. This helps to ensure a snug fit and avoids any gap between the skirting and architrave. If you are using plinth blocks, these should be thicker than the architrave and allow for a seamless finish. Although using a thinner architrave will work with plinth blocks, we usually advise that you opt for an architrave of the same thickness as your skirting; this will result in an aesthetically pleasing and professional look.

What are the types of architrave?

Architrave styles offer a unique way to bring a modern touch to your home and complement the existing decor. With so many profiles to choose from and a variety of materials, you can tailor architraves and skirting that perfectly fit with your interior style. Whether it is for introducing a new design feature or for simply making an existing one look better, architraves with bold clean lines are great for a contemporary edge in your space. Alternatively, if you are looking for classic accents to give your home a timeless feel, then architraves made from ornately designed materials such as MDF or white architrave material can be an excellent choice.

Burford Architrave

Chamfered Architrave

Double Architrave

Ogee Architrave

Ovolo Architrave

Square Architrave

Torus Architrave

What is the difference between architrave and moulding?

While both architrave and molding are decorative elements that can be used in interior design, they are distinct features with different purposes and characteristics.

An architrave is a decorative element that frames a door or window. It consists of a horizontal lintel that spans the top of the opening and two vertical pilasters that flank the sides. The architrave is typically plain or minimally decorated, with clean lines and simple geometric shapes. Its purpose is to provide a frame and define the opening, rather than to add ornate details.

Molding, on the other hand, is a broader term that encompasses a variety of decorative features used in architecture and interior design. Molding can be used on walls, ceilings, and other surfaces to add texture, depth, and visual interest. It comes in a range of styles and shapes, from simple coves and beads to intricate curves and scrolls. Molding is often used to highlight architectural features, such as doorways, windows, and mantels, and can be used to create a specific style or aesthetic in a room.

In summary, architrave is a specific type of decorative element that frames a door or window, while molding is a broader category of decorative features that can be used in various ways throughout a room. Architraves are typically simple and plain, while moldings can be highly decorative and come in a wide variety of styles and shapes.