7 Stand-out Crown Molding Ideas

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7 Stand-out Crown Molding Ideas

Crown molding is a versatile design element that can dramatically enhance the look of any room. Whether you want to add a touch of elegance, charm, or even modern flair, the right crown molding can tie your entire space together.

Let’s explore some crown molding ideas, including an exciting option that’s making a comeback—tin crown molding, perfect for complementing a tin tile ceiling.

In this Article

Dentil Crown Molding

Egg & Dart Crown Molding

Ornate Crown Molding

Minimalist Crown Molding

Flat Crown Molding

Vintage Crown Molding

Painting Crown Molding

Lighting Crown Molding

Trims

Close up of a ceiling with gold tin tile and tin molding with hanging shelves beneath.

Crown Molding C3 and Ceiling Tile Pattern #18 in Artisan Gold with Brushed Bronze

Classic Crown Molding for Timeless Appeal

If you’re looking to achieve a traditional look, classic crown molding is a reliable option. These styles, often called traditional, bed molding, or cove molding, extend the visual verticals of the wall by adding simple detail where it meets the ceiling.

Typically clean lined with subtle curves, traditional crown molding is a great fit for formal spaces such as dining rooms or living rooms. Opt for white or off-white finishes to keep things bright and cohesive, especially in homes with traditional architecture.

Classic but Extra

There are several crown molding styles that have been around for centuries but go beyond the simple to something a bit more detailed. Dentil molding has a traditional section near the ceiling but adds a row of blocks beneath for a neoclassical look.

Egg and dart molding is a staple molding design that features ovals with small arrow-like lines between each oval. This beloved design is available in all kinds of materials from wood to foam and everything in between, including tin. Check it out.

Tin Egg and Dart Molding

Crown Molding C2 and Ceiling Tile Pattern #6 in Artisan Copper Washed White

Ornate Crown Molding for a Luxurious Touch

For those who want a more luxurious feel, ornate crown molding offers intricate designs with flourishes, carvings, and bold patterns. This type of molding is perfect for homes with a classical or opulent design theme. Pair it with rich colors or metallic accents to bring an air of sophistication to any room.

There are two basic types of molding: cove molding (concave style that curves inward toward the corner where the wall and ceiling meet) and convex type molding (has elements that come away from the corner or curve away from the corner). When it comes to the ornate type, the latter is your best bet.

These highly detailed works of art might be made of carved wood, resin, or urethane. They are also available in tin. They are the perfect complement to a tin ceiling or can be used without the tin ceiling.

Explore Ornate Patterns & Colors

Crown Molding C10 and Ceiling Tile Pattern #12 in Metallic Gold.

Minimalist Crown Molding for Modern Homes

Crown molding doesn’t always have to be grand and intricate. If your design leans toward modern or contemporary, consider minimalist crown molding. The clean, simple lines and narrow profile of minimalist molding work well with sleek, modern furniture and open-concept spaces. Opt for a matte or semi-gloss finish to keep the look fresh without overwhelming the room.

Crown Molding C2 and Ceiling Tile Pattern #6 in Artisan Copper Washed White

Flat Moldings vs Profile Moldings

The majority of crown moldings have some amount of projection from the wall. That means that the face of the molding sits on an angle and the two edges meet the the wall parallel to it.

That also means that the molding will attach several inches away from the corner junction of the wall and ceiling. Some crown molding projects may be more than six inches from the corner. Some may only project about two to three inches.

Then there’s a totally different category of molding, flat molding, which is flat rather than having angles or projections. It is usually meant to be a supplement to a crown molding and is applied on the flat surface of the wall or ceiling next to the crown molding. The effect is stunning and a great addition for ornate designs. Flat molding can also be used as a border between a patterned tile and filler tile.

Discover Flat Moldings

Vintage styled cafe with tin ceilings and crown molding in gold.

Crown Molding C1 and Ceiling Tile Pattern #7 in Metallic Gold

Tin Crown Molding for a Vintage Look

Tin crown molding is the perfect match for rooms with tin tile ceilings, creating a cohesive and retro-inspired look. Tin moldings often feature intricate, embossed designs that echo the charm of turn-of-the-century architecture. They’re ideal for homes with vintage or industrial-style decor and can be left unfinished for a raw, edgy appearance or painted to blend in seamlessly with your ceiling.

Pro Tips for How to Incorporate Tin Crown Molding

Match with Tin Ceilings: If you already have a tin tile ceiling, tin crown molding is a natural extension of that aesthetic. The metallic sheen and embossed patterns can carry the vintage charm from the ceiling to the walls, creating a unified, eye-catching design.

Contrast with Other Materials: Tin crown molding can also be used to add texture and contrast to rooms with drywall or wood ceilings. This works especially well in kitchens, dining rooms, or home offices where you want to introduce a bit of character.

Rustic or Industrial Feel: For those who love the industrial or rustic look, consider using unfinished or lightly distressed tin crown molding. The raw, metallic appearance adds an authentic vintage vibe, making it a great fit for spaces that emphasize texture and history.

Side by side close ups of small tin tile additions to ceiling features with crown molding accents.

Crown Molding C2 and Ceiling Tile Pattern #2 in Copper Penny Vein

Painted Crown Molding for a Pop of Color

Who says crown molding has to be white? Painted crown molding is an excellent way to introduce color without overwhelming the room. By painting the molding in bold colors—such as navy or charcoal—you can draw attention to the architectural details while adding personality to the space. This approach is perfect for creative homeowners who want to break away from traditional design norms.

The tin crown molding at American Tin Ceilings comes in 22 metallic color powder coated finishes or you can select from our Artisan colors. These are hand painted and finished in a distressed look to replicate vintage tin tiles. This one-of-a-kind look offsets any design.

Discover Artisan Colors

Lobby with blue walls and white tin ceiling tiles with tin crown molding.

Crown Molding C2 with Tin Ceiling Tile Pattern #6 in Bright White Satin

Crown Molding with Built-in Lighting

A more modern and functional twist on crown molding is the addition of built-in lighting. This type of molding features hidden LED strips or rope lighting that illuminates the room subtly from above. It’s perfect for creating mood lighting in spaces like bedrooms, home theaters, or living rooms, and it adds a futuristic, clean aesthetic.

Combining Crown Molding with Other Trim Elements

If you’re looking to make a statement, consider pairing your crown molding with other trim elements like wainscoting, chair rails, or baseboards. By coordinating these trim pieces, you can create a layered and dynamic design that adds depth and character to the room. This approach works beautifully in larger, formal spaces or homes with a classic design sensibility.

Why American Tin Ceilings?

Crown molding is one of the most versatile architectural details you can add to your home. Whether you choose classic designs, minimalist modern looks, or embrace the timeless beauty of tin crown molding, it’s a simple way to elevate your interior design.

Tin crown molding, especially when paired with a tin tile ceiling, can bring a unique, vintage charm to any room, adding texture, personality, and a touch of history. You can get both at American Tin Ceilings in a variety of colors and patterns.

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7 Stand-out Crown Molding Ideas