The Elegant Beauty Of Arches

Whether you’re designing your home from the ground up, remodeling your existing space, or simply redecorating within – homeowners are no longer satisfied with living the cookie-cutter-lifestyle in a one-size-fits-all floor plan. Embellishing, enhancing and styling your home’s interior by incorporating specific architectural details into the mix will help you achieve your ideal home environment – and undoubtedly set your home apart from the rest. These details can be considered anything that adds visual interest, texture, character and charm to the integrity of the home – while fitting in seamlessly with the structure’s architectural style. Some architectural details may include:

Wainscoting /board and batten
Moldings and baseboards
Doors and windows
Staircase and railing details
Ceiling beams or coffered details (when applicable)
Fireplace mantles and surrounds
Wall niches
Columns
Arches………….

To infuse instant grace and glamour into your home – introduce an arch or two into the mix. They can act as a framework highlighting a spectacular outdoor view, separate rooms from each other, create a focal point within a space or act as a portal from one space to the next. Either way, the options are endless. Many arch styles exist but the 3 most common ones are: The Soft Arch: The soft arch is also referred to as the segmented or eyebrow arch – where it is a segment of a circle. These work beautifully with both high and low header heights.

Soft Arch: Photo/Design: Lori Gilder Interior Makeovers Inc.

The Half Circle Arch: The half circle arch is reminiscent of Roman Architecture and is typically introduced into more Tuscan, Spanish Colonial and Traditional interiors. This arch tends to require more generous ceiling heights due to radius of the arc. You typically would like a minimum of 6’-8” at the lowest portion of the arch.

Half Circle Arch Photo Via Houzz Design: Summerour Architects

The Elliptical Arch: Lets just say the Soft Arch + Half Circle Arch = Elliptical Arch. This elliptical shape has a much more subtle radius in the center and a tighter corner radius. It is a true combination of the segmented and roman combined and is able to generously span greater widths.

Elliptical Arch Photo via Elle Décor

Here are a few more inspirational ideas for you to enjoy.

Photo via Country Living

Photo Via Architectural Digest. An enclosed outdoor space turned office.

Photo via Elle Décor

Photo via House Beautiful

Which arch is your style? Stay Inspired! I encourage you leave questions or comments below this post, and fill out the form on the right hand side of this page to receive your free copy of my special report: “15 Money Saving Strategies When Planning Your Home Renovation” Article by Lori Gilder, Architectural Interior Designer, Los Angeles, Ca. © 2011 Lori Gilder. Interior Makeovers Inc.

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