Adding Style to Your Door Frames

Beef Up the Trim

• Increasing the size of the door trim is an elegant way of bolstering the depth of the frame and adding detail to the room. Add to existing molding with one or more coordinating layers of trim or with something different. Consider adding a crown of molding to the top of the door frame. Painted trim can be replaced with stained wood or unique reclaimed wood to enhance the doorway.

Paint the Trim a Different Color

• For interest, consider painting the door trim a color other than the typical white. A black, brown or gray door frame can be an attention-grabbing change that frames the room beyond the door. Or use classic and vibrant color combinations such as blue and green or gray and lavender. Layer textures by using a semi- or high-gloss sheen to add depth.

Install Bookcases

• Build in bookcases beside and above your door frame. While increasing your storage space, bookcases in unlikely places can also add charm and elegance. Arrange books, art and collectibles neatly. Consider small and attractive storage baskets, boxes or bins for containing clutter.

Hang a Curtain

• Whether the door frame opens up to the outside or just another room of the house, add drapery to enliven a boring entryway. Hang the rod to the ceiling to draw the eye up and visually increase the height of the room. Coordinate your fabric choice with the colors in adjacent rooms. Go bold with graphic designs, stripes or toile, or subtle with a solid color.

Hang a Shelf

• Shelves are useful all over the house, and hanging one over a doorway can be a decorative way to get clutter up high and off tables or the floor, as well as embellish the door frame. Floating shelves can give the space a more spare and modern look, while brackets of different shapes are fun and decorative.

Display Art

• Use your door frame to display a gallery of framed art or photographs. Choose frames of varying sizes and styles and hang them all around the doorway for a unique exhibition of special pieces. Plan it out before you begin, to maximize the visual effect and limit mistakes.