Removable molding and millwork details offer a versatile and renter-friendly way to enhance the charm and character of a home. While traditional moldings typically adorn ceiling lines or floor-wall junctions, there are creative opportunities to introduce architectural flourishes in unexpected places. Ashley Martin, a creative designer residing in Austin, Texas, demonstrates how a simple yet unique project can elevate the overall appeal of a home with the addition of cupid-shaped onlays to door frames.
Embracing Personal Style
In her vibrant 800-square-foot bungalow, Ashley Martin infuses her distinctive design aesthetic, describing it as “glam-rock granny meets vintage love-core Barbie.” Her home serves as a canvas for her creativity, boasting quirky decor pieces that reflect her eclectic taste, from lip-shaped phones to life-size swan-shaped planters. Martin’s fearless approach to design is evident in her bold color choices and playful embellishments, creating a space that exudes fun and energy.
Renter-Friendly Solutions
Despite the challenges of renovating a rental property, Martin embraces the opportunity to personalize her living space. Employing various renter-friendly hacks, such as removable wallpapers and foam crown molding, she transforms her house into a unique and welcoming environment for herself and her partner, Nate. Among the unconventional upgrades, Martin introduces cupid-shaped onlays to her bedroom door frames, adding a whimsical touch to the space.
Custom Architectural Detailing
To achieve this charming embellishment, Martin paints her hallway, kitchen, and bedroom doors in Behr’s “Magic Wand,” a hue that complements the pink accents throughout her home. Enhancing the visual interest of the doors, she attaches cupid figure appliques to the corners of the door frames, creating a playful and romantic ambiance. These urethane cupids from Ekena Millwork offer an affordable and understated way to introduce custom architectural elements to doors, walls, and other surfaces.
Installation Tips
Appliques and onlays, available in various designs and materials, allow homeowners to personalize their spaces with ease. Whether made of wood, PVC, urethane, or resin, these decorative pieces can be installed using wood glue or heavy-duty double-sided tape for a reversible option. To seamlessly integrate the onlays, painting them to match the surrounding surfaces ensures a cohesive and polished look.
Infusing Playful Spirit
With her background in children’s clothing and set design, Martin infuses her home with a playful spirit, turning her living space into a stage for self-expression. By embracing creativity and incorporating whimsical details like cupid onlays, homeowners can transform ordinary elements into extraordinary focal points, adding personality and character to their homes.
