Modern picture rail ideas

Make your period property stand out, or add detailing to an otherwise boxy room with these six modern picture rail and dado rail ideas.

Make your period property stand out, or add detailing to an otherwise boxy room with these six modern dado and picture rail ideas.

Picture rail molding is an interior trim element associated with vintage interior design that can be used in any room. Learn more.

While most contemporary homes don’t come with picture rail installed, the Victorian style of molding is making a comeback. Whether you’re after that classic victorian look—or something a bit more modern look—installing picture rail molding is a simple and stylish project to tackle. While conventional picture hooks and hangers are still the norm, we’re here to say that picture rail offers versatility and impact that hooks alone can’t provide.

Creative types are doing picture rails the modern way -- with metal. Pair an ornate profile with luxurious material, for a cultured, customized look.

A guide to when you should paint the wall colour above the picture rail and when to paint it the same as the ceiling. Find out which look is right for you.

What is a Picture Rail? A picture rail is not just a decorative moulding, it has a very specific purpose and, just as the name suggests, it is used to hang pictures from. It is a great alternative to drilling holes in the wall and it makes moving pictures very simple.

“You can call it different things,” said one designer, but it “all adds up to the same idea: You feel like you want to put your feet up.”

If you are wondering whether you should paint above the picture rail in your period property, check out my tips and advice including before & afters!