When it comes to interior design, skirting board might not be the first detail on your mind, but they play a crucial role in tying a room together. These often-overlooked elements create a cohesive look, protect walls from wear and tear, and elevate a home’s overall style. With so many options available, how do you choose a skirting board that complements your home and enhances its aesthetic appeal? This guide breaks down the key considerations and trending styles to help you make the right choice.
The Importance of Skirting Boards
Skirting boards do much more than cover the junction between walls and floors. Here’s why they matter:
- Protecting Your Walls
Skirting boards act as a barrier, safeguarding walls from scuffs, impacts, and marks caused by furniture or vacuums. This practical purpose keeps walls looking pristine for longer.
- Enhancing Aesthetic Appeal
Skirting boards frame a room, giving it a finished and polished look. The right style can emphasize architectural features and significantly enhance the interior ambiance.
- Hiding Imperfections
Floors or walls aren’t always perfectly aligned. Skirting boards conceal uneven edges or gaps that may detract from your room’s overall look.
Things to Consider Before Choosing a Skirting Board
1. Home Style and Theme
- Your skirting boards should align with your home’s existing style and décor. Whether your home leans toward minimalism, traditional charm, or modern elegance, choose a design that complements its vibe.
- For instance, modern homes often opt for flat, streamlined skirting boards. Meanwhile, period homes might favor intricate, detailed designs that reflect historic charm.
2. Material
- MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard): Affordable and durable, MDF boards are perfect for families prone to wear and tear.
- Wood: Providing a natural, warm appearance, real wood skirting boards are a go-to for premium-quality interiors.
- Plastic/U-PVC: Ideal for modern and low-maintenance homes, plastic skirting boards are moisture-resistant and long-lasting.
3. Height
- Standard skirting board heights range between 3 to 8 inches. High ceilings pair well with taller skirting boards for a dramatic effect, while shorter boards create simplicity in smaller rooms.
4. Finish
- Skirting boards are available in various finishes such as painted, primed, or natural wood. Choose a finish that matches or contrasts with your walls and floor.
> Quick Trend Tip: A glossy white finish remains one of the most popular choices in 2024, creating timeless elegance while making rooms feel brighter.
Trending Skirting Board Styles in 2024
Here’s what’s making waves in interior design this year:
1. Bullnose Skirting Boards
This simple, rounded style creates a seamless and understated aesthetic. It’s highly versatile and pairs beautifully with contemporary interiors.
2. Torus Skirting Boards
Featuring a curved edge and a decorative feel, the Torus style works well in both traditional and transitional homes.
3. Victorian Skirting Boards
For period-style homes, Victorian skirting boards with their intricate carvings and tall height add a sense of grandeur.
4. Square-Edge Skirting Boards
With clean and sharp lines, square-edge boards embody minimalism and are perfect for modern interiors.
5. Shadow Gap Skirting
A growing favorite in high-end homes, shadow gap skirting creates a sleek and floating effect, ideal for ultra-modern or industrial-inspired spaces.
6. Chamfered Skirting Boards
The chamfered design features a diagonal edge, blending subtle style with simplicity. It’s perfect for contemporary homes seeking a hint of flair.
Key Skirting Board Statistics You Need to Know
- 72% of homeowners renovating their homes reported that simple, modern skirting board designs improved the overall aesthetic appeal. (Source: Interior Home Trends, 2023)
- 50% of buyers noted that premium-quality skirting boards were a feature they looked for when purchasing period-style homes. (Source: Real Estate Interior Insights, 2023)
- In 2024, flat and square-edge skirting boards dominate the market, with a 30% rise in sales compared to previous years. (Source: UK Design Trends Report)
How to Choose the Right Skirting Board for Your Home
Now that you’re familiar with trending styles and considerations, follow these steps to narrow down your choices:
- Evaluate Your Space: Start by assessing the dimensions and style of your room. A small, cozy room might benefit from low skirting boards, while a grand living room calls for tall and bold designs.
- Balance Budget vs. Quality: Factor in your budget while keeping durability in mind. MDF may be lighter on your pocket but is less premium compared to natural wood.
- Contrast or Match: Decide whether you want the skirting board to blend in seamlessly (e.g., painted in the same color as the wall) or stand out with a contrasting finish.
Choose Skirting Boards That Last
Ultimately, your skirting boards should enhance the beauty and function of your interior spaces. By considering your home’s style, materials, and trending designs, you can choose skirting boards that perfectly complement your home while reflecting your personal taste.