What is Internal Door Architrave?

Internal door architrave refers to the decorative trim or frame that surrounds an internal door, covering the gap between the door frame and the wall. It serves both functional and aesthetic purposes, enhancing the look of a room while providing a clean, polished finish around doors. Architraves come in various styles, sizes, and materials, allowing homeowners and designers to create the desired look that complements their interior décor.

The Role of Internal Door Architrave

1. Aesthetic Appeal The architrave is often the first internal door architrave thing people notice when they enter a room, so it plays a significant role in the overall look of the door and space. A well-chosen architrave can enhance the design of the door and frame, contributing to the room’s style—whether modern, traditional, rustic, or contemporary. Architraves are available in a wide range of finishes and designs, from simple, sleek lines to more ornate, detailed patterns.
2. Concealing Gaps One of the primary functions of internal door architrave is to cover the gaps between the door frame and the wall. When a door is installed, there may be slight imperfections in the wall or frame, and the architrave neatly hides these gaps, creating a smooth, professional finish.
3. Protection Architraves also protect the door frame from damage. Walls and door frames can suffer from knocks, scuffs, or dirt over time, and the architrave acts as a barrier that absorbs some of the wear and tear. It helps keep the frame and wall looking good for longer.
4. Defining Room Design Architraves can contribute to the room’s overall style. They are available in various widths, shapes, and materials, and can be plain or intricately detailed to suit different tastes. Whether you want a minimalist design with subtle trims or a more traditional look with detailed mouldings, architraves can help define the character of your room.

Types of Internal Door Architraves

1. Modern or Contemporary Architraves These architraves typically feature clean lines and a minimalist design. Modern architraves often have a square or rectangular profile, with subtle, unembellished edges. They are ideal for homes with a contemporary aesthetic, where simplicity and functionality are key.
2. Traditional or Classic Architraves Traditional architraves are characterized by more ornate detailing, often featuring curves, bevels, and raised profiles. These are typically used in homes with a more classic or period-style design. They can help create a more elegant or vintage feel, and are often paired with panelled doors and larger mouldings.
3. Ovolo Architraves Ovolo architraves feature a rounded profile, adding a softer, classic touch to a room. This type of architrave is frequently used in traditional interiors and can help soften the edges of the door frame, giving it a more refined and timeless appearance.
4. Chamfered Architraves Chamfered architraves have a slanted, angular profile, providing a clean, geometric look. This style is often used in modern or minimalist interiors, as the sharp lines complement contemporary design elements.
5. Victorian or Period Architraves Victorian-style architraves feature intricate patterns and detailed mouldings, often including fluted designs, leaf motifs, or decorative bevels. These are ideal for older homes or those trying to recreate a period look.

Materials Used for Internal Door Architrave

1. Wood Wood is the most traditional material for architraves, offering a natural, elegant look. Popular wood types include pine, oak, and walnut, each providing a different tone and texture. Wooden architraves are versatile and can be painted, stained, or left unfinished to highlight the wood’s natural grain.
2. MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard) MDF is a popular choice for internal door architrave because it’s affordable, durable, and smooth. It can be easily painted in any colour to match the room’s decor. MDF is also a good option for intricate designs, as it can be moulded into detailed shapes and profiles without the risk of warping or cracking.
3. PVC or UPVC For a low-maintenance option, PVC or UPVC architraves are an excellent choice. These materials are resistant to moisture, making them ideal for bathrooms or kitchens. They are easy to clean, durable, and often come in a variety of finishes, including wood-effect patterns for a more natural look.
4. Softwood Softwood architraves are often less expensive than hardwood options and are commonly used in budget-conscious projects. They offer a lighter tone and are versatile in design, although they may require more maintenance in high-traffic areas compared to hardwoods.
5. Composite Materials Some manufacturers offer composite architraves made from a mix of wood fibres and resins. These offer the look of wood with increased durability and moisture resistance, making them suitable for a variety of applications.