Wall stucco in the interior

Wall stucco molding is a rather unusual way to decorate an interior. Despite the seeming complexity of creating this decor, it is quite possible to make it yourself.

Previously, the stucco molding on the walls in the apartment was created by hand. The plaster solution was applied over the plaster and already there it was transformed into a variety of patterns. Today, for this work, molding is usually used, that is, metal forms are used, which are, in fact, stencils for individual elements. This not only speeds up the work, but also allows you to create absolutely identical volumetric parts. High-quality metal molds can withstand about 2000 fillings.

Despite the fact that the stucco molding can look anything, most often botanical motives, images of animals, geometric shapes or elements of antiquity are chosen. In a modern interior, stucco elements allow you to visually deepen the walls or raise the ceiling. Often, patterned strips are used to mask crevices, joint lines and finishing errors. Behind the stucco plinths on the ceiling, hidden lighting can be located, and the chandeliers themselves are often framed by a corresponding patterned rosette.

One of the most popular materials for stucco molding is gypsum. Its main characteristics include environmental friendliness and the ability to withstand temperature jumps. The plasticity of the material helps to simplify the work carried out. It should also be added that, while solidifying, the gypsum mass increases in size and penetrates even the smallest cracks. This means that stucco molding may well be used not only for decorating space, but also for masking defects and damage to surfaces.

Of course, gypsum stucco molding has a number of disadvantages. The rather heavy weight negatively affects the state of the finish, which is forced to withstand it. In addition, gypsum is not moisture resistant. Moreover, it even attracts liquids, and therefore quite often suffers from a fungus. However, this problem can be dealt with by pretreating with a protective agent. Gypsum elements are quite fragile and immediately shatter when dropped to the floor. A relative disadvantage is the high price for this kind of stucco molding.

Expanded polystyrene is considered another common material for creating stucco moldings. The main advantage of this variety is its low cost, but its quality leaves much to be desired. Fragile stucco molding requires a very careful attitude, and therefore is most often placed in the least "contact" zones - under the ceiling. The material cannot be called elastic, and its porous surface is very poorly stained. Its high fire hazard is also its disadvantage.

It is impossible not to mention polyurethane, it is also foamed plastic. The material is resistant to temperature shocks, it is lightweight and has a long service life. The other advantages of polyurethane stucco molding include ease of coloring, ease of installation, moisture resistance, the ability to "reject" odors, as well as a wide range of models. Moreover, even after a long time, the material does not crack or deform, and does not turn yellow.The main disadvantage of polyurethane is its high fire hazard.

Quite often in interiors there is a voluminous stucco molding on a botanical theme. The most common subjects are all kinds of flowers, trees, vines and tree branches. This decor is characterized by the presence of symmetrical lines and rather simple shapes, and therefore is not particularly complex and is even suitable for self-creation. Artistic stucco molding on the theme of the animal world to create is more complex and already requires the involvement of specialists. I must say that the options for the image of deer, wolves or tigers do not fit into every interior, and therefore it is recommended to use them with great care.

Geometric molding is considered to be quite versatile. Clear straight or loosely curved lines blend in with most interiors. Since such textured stucco molding can look a little boring, it is often accompanied by lighting. The embodiment of ancient subjects requires not only an appropriate "background", but also knowledge of the basics of composition. It is better to entrust such work to a professional, making sure that only high-quality material will be used.

In terms of functionality, wall stucco molding can be divided into several categories. Cornices and skirting boards are located at the junction of the ceiling and walls. They not only perform a decorative function, but also mask the edge of the wallpaper, cover the formed angle between surfaces and any wall defects. Correctly selected stucco molding can visually reduce or increase the space.

Moldings are chosen as frames for framing a picture or panel, or they serve as decorative inserts. This element can be both smooth and embossed.

In addition, wall stucco molding can be brackets, bas-reliefs and columns. The bracket, by the way, in addition to its basic functions, can be used as a corner piece at the junction of the ceiling and wall.

Most often, stucco is chosen to decorate a number of classic interiors. The Empire style interior requires the use of laconic, strict elements that are arranged symmetrically. In offices or living rooms, elements of a military theme may be present, for example, swords, shields, coats of arms, spears or laurel wreaths. In addition, images of animals, both real and mythological, are encouraged. The main interiors of the Empire-style space are framed by “vegetal” frames.

The Baroque style is characterized by the obligatory use of gilded stucco moldings. The subjects are usually botanical: branches, buds, leaves and shells may be present in the image. It is customary to arrange the details asymmetrically, but in such a way that the whole composition is “read out”.

For style rococo graceful stucco details should form unusual ornaments. Straight lines are practically absent or are used to form a border. A characteristic feature is the use of molded rosebuds that surround masks or shields.

Interior created in style classicism, requires the use of floral ornaments, as well as paired figurines of birds, lions and even sphinxes. For style modern it is allowed to use asymmetric stucco molding, formed from ribbons or "algae". Reliefs of female profiles with long curly hair are also quite common. Stucco molding in the living room, decorated in style romanticism, is devoid of corners and presents inconspicuous floral ornaments. Stucco details can also be used in eclectic style, as well as art deco.

Decorative wall stucco molding may well be created at home. At the preparatory stage, the wall is finished: it is covered with a layer of putty, primed and cleaned of dust. Beginners should definitely devote enough time to preparing a sketch. It is drawn either on cardboard or on thick paper, after which it is placed under film or cellophane. Already cut stencil must be placed on the wall, and then squeeze out its contours in a layer of putty.

Gypsum is diluted with water until the required consistency is obtained, after which the direct decoration of the stucco molding begins. To work you will need a scalpel, knife, wire and molds. The drying speed of the elements will depend on the thickness of the solution used.

To care for decorative stucco molding, you will need mild detergents that do not contain acids or abrasives. The elements should be looked after regularly, but extremely carefully.... The necessary restoration is carried out using the materials that were used to create the decor. Some minor damage can be masked with plaster or putty.

It looks very stylish when not only single stucco elements are used in the living room interior, but also furniture and any other decor that are harmoniously combined with them. For example, only two fairly simple "antique" columns can be used to decorate a room, however, the black-and-white photopanel between them with a corresponding plot immediately makes the composition "catchy".

The general theme is also emphasized by a small armchair, which is as white as the columns, with gilded and silvered details. The interior is completed by the original "golden" chandelier, individual elements of which resemble laurel wreaths associated with the same antique theme.

The stucco molding looks quite organic in the corridor, but only in those cases when its use is not excessive. For example, in a space decorated in pastel colors, gilded stucco plinths and the same moldings can be used... Simple elements are also used to frame doorways.

The general theme is continued by a mirror in a luxurious gold, as if sculpted frame and a hanger with decorative details. The corridor chandelier, on the other hand, was chosen with simple shapes and without gilded details, so as not to overload the interior.

Stucco molding can also look interesting in modern interiors. For example, several stucco elements in a light yellow shade will harmoniously look over a Scandinavian-style living room sofa.

Stucco molding in this case is the main element of the room, and therefore the rest of the furniture and decor, rather, complement it, trying not to drown out. In this case, a light gray sofa, a laconic table with a wooden top, a wicker basket and a picture of a tree are used.

Another winning option is the abundant use of stucco moldings to decorate all the walls and ceiling of the room, complemented by modern furniture of laconic forms. Moreover, the surfaces themselves are painted pink. Furniture stands in contrast to the numerous curls and patterns: a pink sofa of a simple geometric shape, a white work table, an unusual shelving unit and a side table.

For information on how to make stucco molding with your own hands, see the next video.