Decorative Moldings
Decorative Moldings: Preserving the Charm of Historic Homes
When it comes to preserving the authenticity and character of a historic home, few details are more important—or more overlooked—than decorative moldings. These intricate woodwork elements do more than connect walls, ceilings, and cabinetry. They define an era, evoke timeless elegance, and honor the craftsmanship of a bygone age.
At Bedford Fine Art Gallery, we understand the importance of getting every detail right—because we live it every day in our own home, a beautifully preserved 1889 Victorian house. And when it came time to renovate our historic kitchen, we faced a choice: opt for modern cabinets with generic trim or seek out experts who could replicate the original decorative moldings that give our home its distinctive charm.
Why Custom Decorative Moldings Matter in Historic Homes
In historic homes, especially from the Victorian era, every piece of trim and molding is part of the architectural story. Off-the-shelf moldings often clash with original woodwork in terms of scale, design, and wood species. Modern moldings tend to be mass-produced, lacking the intricate profiles and depth found in 19th-century craftsmanship.
For homeowners committed to restoration—not just renovation—custom decorative moldings are essential. Matching the original design not only preserves the home’s integrity but also enhances its value and visual impact.
Our Experience: Working with Buterbaugh’s Kitchen Center in Bedford, PA
When we decided to renovate the kitchen of our 1889 Victorian home, we knew we needed more than just a cabinetry supplier—we needed craftspeople who understood the historical context of the home and had the skills to match.
That’s why we turned to Buterbaugh’s Kitchen Center in Bedford, Pennsylvania. Their team didn’t just install modern cabinetry; they custom-designed and fabricated decorative moldings that perfectly matched the original moldings in the rest of our home. The result is a kitchen that feels seamless with the rest of the house—like it’s always been there.
Choosing custom moldings over modern alternatives was about more than aesthetics. It was about honoring history, supporting local craftsmanship, and maintaining the soul of our home.
How to Find Experts in Custom Decorative Moldings
If you're restoring a historic home, here’s how to find the right professionals to create or match your decorative moldings:
1. Look for Local Woodworkers with Historic Restoration Experience
Not all cabinetmakers are experienced in restoration work. Seek out professionals who specialize in custom woodworking for older homes, preferably with experience in Victorian, Colonial, Craftsman, or other historic architectural styles.
2. Ask for Portfolio Examples
A skilled artisan will be proud to show examples of past work. Look for detailed trim profiles, cornices, rosettes, and other elements that demonstrate their ability to replicate complex designs.
3. Check Reviews and References
Talk to other homeowners, preservation groups, or even local historical societies. Companies like Buterbaugh’s Kitchen Center earn reputations not just for quality work, but for respecting the integrity of historic properties.
4. Bring a Sample or Photo
If you have original moldings in other parts of your home, a physical sample or clear photo can help your contractor match the profile and wood species precisely.
5. Choose Quality Materials
Don’t settle for MDF or composite when restoring a historic home. Solid wood—matched in species and grain—is key to achieving an authentic look and feel.
Decorative Moldings: The Finishing Touch That Tells the Story
Decorative moldings are more than just trim—they're the architectural punctuation marks that frame the story of your home. Whether it's crown molding in the parlor, wainscoting in the dining room, or detailed trim in the kitchen, these elements connect us to the craftsmanship of the past.
At Bedford Fine Art Gallery, we believe in preserving that legacy. Our experience working with Buterbaugh’s Kitchen Center has shown us how modern artisans can bring old-world charm to life—one molding at a time.
Are You Restoring a Historic Home?
Visit Bedford Fine Art Gallery—not just to view 19th-century artwork, but to step inside an authentic Victorian home where history is lived and celebrated. Whether you're looking for inspiration or connections to skilled craftspeople like Buterbaugh’s, we’re happy to share our journey and help others preserve America’s architectural heritage. Please also visit www/victorianrestoration.com where we highlight our experience as we restored and decorated our 1889 historic home.
