When it comes to interior design, skirting boards often go unnoticed. But their role in enhancing the aesthetics of a room is significant. Skirting boards, also known as baseboards, are the finishing touches that bridge the gap between the floor and the wall. They protect walls from damage, conceal unsightly wiring, and add an undeniable charm to any space. Whether you’re revamping an entire house or giving a single room a makeover, choosing the right types of skirting board can elevate your design game.
From classic to contemporary, there’s a wide variety of skirting board styles to suit every interior aesthetic. Let’s explore some of the popular types and how they complement different interior styles.
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Traditional Skirting Boards
Nothing says “timeless elegance” quite like traditional skirting boards. They’re typically larger, with a height ranging from 5 to 10 inches, and feature intricate details such as bevels or profiles. Usually crafted from solid wood, traditional skirting boards are most suited for period properties or homes styled after Victorian, Georgian, or Edwardian eras.
Where It Fits:
Traditional skirting boards pair beautifully with high ceilings, ornate cornices, and decorative wall paneling. Their bold design complements grand spaces and period architecture.
Trending Tip:
Homeowners are increasingly painting traditional skirting boards in dark, contrasting tones like charcoal or navy, giving them a modern upgrade while preserving the classic charm.
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Modern Skirting Boards
For those who favor clean lines and minimalism, modern skirting boards are ideal. These are usually low-profile and feature simple, straight edges with little to no detailing. MDF and PVC materials are commonly used due to their versatility and affordability.
Where It Fits:
Modern skirting boards work well in homes with contemporary or Scandinavian-style interiors. Think neutral tones, open layouts, and spaces flooded with natural light.
Trending Tip:
Many designers are experimenting with flush skirting boards that sit level with the wall surface, creating an ultra-sleek, seamless look. This design distracts less from the walls and delivers a clean, cohesive finish.
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Bullnose Skirting Boards (aka Pencil Round)
Sometimes, simplicity speaks louder than intricate designs. Bullnose skirting boards, often called pencil-round skirting, are curved at the top for a soft, rounded profile. The clean and practical appearance makes them a popular choice for homeowners.
Where It Fits:
These skirting boards suit contemporary homes, children’s bedrooms, or spaces that lean towards practicality. Their design is simple and unpretentious, making them a safe choice for multifunctional spaces.
Trending Tip:
Bold color combinations like white walls paired with pastel or warm-toned bullnose skirting boards are gaining traction, especially for family-friendly interiors.
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Victorian-Style Skirting Boards
Victorian-style skirting boards are the epitome of elegance and grandeur. These feature highly ornate carvings or detailed profiles, capturing the decorative ethos of the Victorian era. Crafted from premium hardwoods like oak or pine, they add a sense of luxury to your interiors.
Where It Fits:
Perfect for formal living rooms, dining areas, or heritage-listed properties held to a specific period aesthetic. Their presence demands attention and sets the tone for classic opulence.
Trending Tip:
Pair traditional Victorian skirting boards with statement furniture and metallic accents like brass or antique gold for a cohesive and attention-grabbing decor.
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Shadow Gap Skirting Boards
Shadow gap skirting boards take a unique, modern approach. Instead of being a decorative feature, these skirting boards are recessed into the wall, creating a minimalistic gap above the floor that casts a subtle shadow. The result? A highly futuristic and understated aesthetic.
Where It Fits:
Popular in ultra-modern apartments, industrial-style interiors, or offices where minimalism reigns supreme. Shadow gap designs allow for a nearly invisible boundary between walls and floors.
Trending Tip:
Pair them with polished concrete or hardwood floors for a contemporary urban vibe. Shadow gap skirting boards are often painted the same color as the walls to bring out their seamless quality.
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Torus Skirting Boards
Torus skirting boards are a timeless style that sits between traditional and modern. The design features a gentle semi-circular curve at the top but remains simple compared to fully ornate styles. Known for their versatility, they strike the perfect balance for transitional interiors.
Where It Fits:
Ideal for homes that blend character-filled vintage elements with modern touches. Torus skirting boards complement a variety of flooring types, including hardwood, laminate, or patterned tiles.
Trending Tip:
Using mid-toned wood finishes like walnut or cherry can bring out the curves in torus skirting boards while adding warmth to the space.
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Ogee Skirting Boards
The hallmark of ogee skirting boards is their distinctive “S” profile. These skirting boards are more decorative compared to bullnose or modern designs but are still subtle enough to avoid overwhelming a space. Their aesthetic bridges the gap between sophisticated and understated.
Where It Fits:
Ogee skirting works particularly well in semi-traditional settings, like suburban homes aiming for a blend of chic and cozy. They’re also suitable for open-plan spaces where you want subtle detailing.
Trending Tip:
Use muted tones such as light greys or off-whites to highlight the ogee profiles while maintaining a soft, elegant look.
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Chamfered Skirting Boards
Chamfered skirting boards feature an angled top edge that slopes downward. This design offers a minimalist charm while still having added character compared to completely flat skirting boards. Chamfered edges make these boards practical, resistant to visible dirt and wear.
Where It Fits:
They complement contemporary and transitional styles well. Chamfered skirting boards often pair beautifully with neutral interiors or understated decor.
Trending Tip:
Many homeowners are opting for slightly taller chamfered skirting boards, painted in deep neutral colors to accentuate their simplicity while adding depth to their rooms.
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Custom Skirting Boards
For those who want to step outside the box, custom skirting boards offer limitless possibilities. They can be designed to reflect personal tastes, from intricate and artistic profiles to unique materials like reclaimed wood or metal.
Where It Fits:
Custom designs are typically used in homes where individuality is embraced. They work perfectly in eclectic or highly stylized interiors that refuse to conform to ordinary design rules.
Trending Tip:
Eco-conscious homeowners are choosing reclaimed timber as a sustainable custom skirting material. The rustic aesthetic adds warmth and character to any room.
Final Thoughts on Skirting Boards in Interior Design
Skirting boards may seem like a small design element, but they carry significant aesthetic weight in pulling together the overall look of a space. Choosing the right style for your home is about more than aesthetics—it’s about matching the functionality, durability, and vibe of each room.
Remember to consider factors like material, height, and finish as they’ll influence both the visual appeal and practicality of your skirting boards. With so many styles to explore, there’s a design to complement every interior, from timeless classics to avant-garde spaces.
