By KGK Interiors · Finishing Carpentry · South West London & Surrey
In most renovation or interior design projects, skirting boards and wall mouldings are decided last and budgeted last. This is a mistake. The finishing details of a room — the profile of a skirting board, the presence or absence of a cornice, the way an architrave meets a door frame — are what separate a room that feels complete from one that does not.
What are wall mouldings and why do they matter?
Wall mouldings are decorative timber profiles applied to walls or ceilings to add architectural character. Common types include dado rails (typically positioned a third of the way up a wall), picture rails (near the ceiling, originally for hanging artwork), and cornice or coving at the ceiling join.
In period properties across South West London — Victorian terraces, Edwardian semis, and Georgian townhouses — these features are original to the building. When they are damaged or missing, their absence is immediately noticeable. Reinstating them is one of the most effective ways to restore the character of a period home.
In modern homes, contemporary moulding profiles can be used to add interest and a sense of quality that new-build properties often lack straight from the developer.
Skirting boards: more than just a practical finish
Skirting boards serve a practical purpose — protecting the base of walls from scuffs and damage — but their visual impact is significant. A tall, well-proportioned skirting board with a
classic ogee or torus profile instantly elevates a room. A thin, flat MDF strip does the opposite.
In our experience working in homes across Surrey and South West London, replacing tired or undersized skirting boards is one of the highest-value changes a homeowner can make relative to cost.
What height and profile should I choose?
As a general rule, skirting height should be proportionate to ceiling height. For rooms with standard 2.4m ceilings, a 150mm skirting is a good starting point. Rooms with higher ceilings — common in Victorian properties — can carry 200mm or taller. The profile (the shape of the moulding) should reflect the period and style of the property.
KGK Interiors tip: Painted MDF is the standard choice for skirting and mouldings and performs well in most conditions. For bathrooms or rooms with damp risk, moisture-resistant MDF or hardwood are better options. Always discuss the environment with your carpenter before specifying materials.
Getting it right first time
Mouldings and skirting look simple but require care to install well. Corners need to be perfectly mitred or scribed, joints need to be tight, and the finish needs to be straight and level. A poorly fitted skirting board with visible gaps and uneven lines is worse than no skirting at all.
KGK Interiors fits all finishing carpentry to the same standard as our bespoke furniture — because in a premium home, every detail counts.