Ideas for Painting on Arches

Bright Ideas

• Arches are an eye-catching interior feature in any room. They can be made even more dominant with bright colors. Bright paint is applied to different areas on and around the arch, all resulting in the enhancement of the architectural distinction of the arch. For example, if the arch is surrounded in trim than the trim can be painted a bright color complementing the neutral or muted colors of the walls. The inside of the arch can also be accented with bright paint or the eye led to the arch by the use of bright paint on the walls prior to the arch.

Science of Subtle

• Subtle color accents help to inconspicuously draw attention to arches. Arches painted just one hue darker or lighter of the color of the adjoining wall cause the arch to draw the eye without standing out. Metallic glazes in bronze or copper enhance the features of arch trim. In addition, understated paint effect may be used on arches throughout the home to unite the decor.

Disappearing Act

• While painting cannot make arches disappear, it can be used to diminish the appearance of an arch. The key is to get the arches to blend into the surrounding rooms. For arches with trim, it is first recommended the trim be removed. Neutral colors are applied to the arch and surrounding walls so the arch blends.

Dazzling Designs

• Arches do not need to be painted in solid colors but may also be decorated using various designs. Designs for arches may be coordinated to match the style of room, with stencils used to paint stars along the inside of an arch in child’s room. Mosaic or mural designs are more complex projects but invite creativity in determining pattern and image selection. Arches are given an opulent makeover with a gilded design using metallic colors.