Arches are a timeless architectural element–so timeless, in fact, that they have been around since the earliest human civilizations existed in Mesopotamia. First engineered out of necessity, arches were revered for their strength and beauty throughout history. It’s no coincidence that many of the arches built in Roman or medieval times still stand today and that modern arch design trends are forecast to be especially trendy in the next year.
Although modern technology negates the need for arches in architectural design now, they are still a popular design element. Trends come and go, but archways have a unique staying power that is hard to find in interior design. If you’re unsure of where to start or find yourself in need of some inspiration, we’ve broken down some of the best ways to incorporate this ancient design element into your home’s modern aesthetic.
1. Windows and Doors
When we think about archways in homes, windows, and doors, especially, are what usually come to mind. Homes with arched entryways are highly sought-after and provide a welcome contrast to the typical abundance of sharp corners and 90-degree angles in homes today.
If you aren’t lucky enough to have found an abode with architectural archways already built-in, you don’t necessarily have to break the bank to have them installed. Better yet, if you’re handy you can actually do it yourself.
If a DIY project isn’t your thing, many homeowners opt to have them installed by a professional contractor. While it does require an investment of time and/or money, the end reward is well worth it.
2. Wall Art
Image 1: Patio On the Italian Countryside Mosaic Image 2: Van Gogh’s Sunflowers Reproduction Arched Mosaic Image 3: Hisham’s Palace Arched Tree of Life Reproduction Mosaic
Adding arches to your home’s interior design by way of wall art is a far less permanent option than installing doorways or windows in one or more rooms in your home. Though if your home does have arched elements, arched wall art will complement it fantastically.
The perfect way to marry the ancient beauty of arches with modern home decor is by featuring an arched mosaic on one or more of the walls in your favorite space. Not only will the soft edges stand out against the right angles throughout the space, but these pieces, in particular, will transport you to another place and time while providing a classic look and feel to any room.
What’s great about these mosaics is that you have options when it comes to installation. You can choose to mount the mosaic on a wooden background and affix it to your wall to hang or you can embed the mosaic with the wall all on your own. Either way, these timeless mosaics won’t disappoint.
3. Mirrors
Similar to wall art, mirrors are a great option to add modern arch design to your home decor without having to make any physical changes to the space. If you aren’t completely sold on the arch trend, then dipping your toes in the water with an arched mirror is the way to go.
With a little imagination and creativity, arched mirrors can be incorporated into your space in several ways. The traditional route would be to hang a large arched mirror in your space, perhaps over a sink or vanity, but if you’re feeling bolder, you could opt for a gallery wall of arch-shaped mirrors for a unique optical experience.
4. Flooring
Image 1: Arched Colorful Sea Life Swimming Together Mosaic Image 2: A Blonde Mermaid Floating in the Sea Mosaic Image 3: Arched Seahorses Swimming in a Small Herd Mosaic
Now, this is a truly unexpected way to add the modern arch design trend to your home’s decor in more ways than one. Arched mosaics are making their second appearance on the list because they aren’t just reserved for wall hangings. Mosaic flooring has been around since ancient Roman times, so why not add an arched mosaic to your flooring for a one-of-a-kind look for your space?
Mosaics can be installed on any type of floor, but you don’t have to make too big of a leap to incorporate a mosaic into existing tile flooring. To make a real splash, these nautical mosaics would be the perfect addition to a bathroom floor to instantly elevate an otherwise boring space into a real conversation starter.
5. Furniture
Instead of adding boxy furniture to an already boxy space, opting for arched furniture pieces can add a softer balance to a room. The best part is that the possibilities are pretty endless.
You’ve got chairs, bookshelves, tables, benches, headboards, and so much more to consider. Whether your space is modern industrial or mid-century modern, arched furniture is as versatile as it is unique.
If you want to test out modern arch design trends in your space, a small piece of furniture is a great place to start. Before you know it, you’ll be on the hunt for arched furniture pieces everywhere you go.
Modern Arch Design Trends for Every Style
Arches may be having a moment as an interior design trend right now, but make no mistake about it, the right arched element can last a lifetime. It’s up to you how far you’re willing to go.
If your design preferences change with the wind, you may be better off opting for arched mirrors or furniture. But if you’ve always dreamt of arches as an architectural element in your home, then, by all means, have those windows and doors installed.
Either way, you can’t go wrong by adding a mosaic to your space. Arched or not, hand-crafted, one-of-a-kind artwork will never go out of style.