Interior architecture done well catches the eye

Interior architecture is the result of the construction of a building and the style of architecture used. It is also the determining element of what we, as viewers, perceive the building to be made from the interior point of view.

Interior architecture also consists of all the embellishments and ornamentation we see and experience on the interior of a building. It is all the trim and moldings that make up a room, from crown molding to baseboard and everything in between.

Trim is everything that is usually made of wood, plaster or composite material to finish the interior walls. Trim can be simple and discrete, or ornate and complex, depending on the hand of the interior architect.

In Europe and in the U.S., interior architecture was considered its own field some time ago. Interior architects developed lavish design packages to complement — and in some instances enhance — the exterior architecture. Quite often, the interior architecture was the responsibility of the architect.

With the developing interior design field, more and more of the interior finishes have become the responsibility and task of the interior designers over time.

So what exactly are the components of interior architecture? Everything from the cornice at the top, where the wall meets the ceiling, to the baseboard where the floor meets the walls; all the other pieces in between are considered to be part of the interior architecture of the vocabulary architecture.

Both traditional and contemporary architecture contribute to interior equally. Traditional architecture can mesmerize, with finely detailed, intricate carvings and interesting profiles. Contemporary styles, on the other hand, can be simple and futuristic with clean sweeping lines.

In addition to the previously mentioned trim, other trim that impacts the interior architecture are the door surrounds, doors, dado or chair rail, paneling, fireplace mantels, the fenestrations, ceiling coffers, beams and even center or chandelier medallions.

These are the components that can make a room have a specific look and character. Some architects, like Frank Lloyd Wright, have likened the interior architecture of their rooms to frozen music. If done properly, and in the right proportion and scale, it can make a room sing.

If all the components feel natural to the room, there is a rare energy that makes the room seem magical.

Centuries ago churches, temples and public buildings were all detailed to have the interior architecture made of stones, such as marble and rare granites. When they did not have the means, often times, the interior architecture was painted in tromp l'oeil to simulate the expensive marble. Sometimes columns and doorway were done in stone, and then all that was out of reach was painted to fool the eye of the visitor.

In homes today, many of the tried methods such as faux finishes still are being done. Sometimes inexpensive woods are grained and delicately painted to simulate more expensive woods.

However, while many of our predecessor like those in the Victorian era took great strides in painting their millwork in kaleidoscopic colors, it remains a mystery why our conservative nature has many of us always opting for white trim. Take a chance and experiment with colors. It will change your life.

• Joseph Pubillones is the owner of Joseph Pubillones Interiors in Palm Beach, Florida.

© 2015, Creators Syndicate