How to choose picture mouldings according to classic, Nordic or industrial style

How to combine picture mouldings with decorative styles: classic, Nordic or industrial

The selection of picture mouldings is an essential aspect of interior design. It is not only about framing an artwork, but about enhancing its aesthetic value and ensuring that it interacts coherently with its surroundings. Each decorative style requires a different type of moulding, in terms of materials, profile and finish. In this practical guide, we explain how to select the most suitable moulding for three of the styles most commonly used by interior designers and professional framers: classic style, Nordic style and industrial style.

The moulding as a decorative element

A well-chosen moulding acts as a link between the artwork and the surrounding space. Its profile, texture and colour directly influence how the piece is perceived. An overly ornate moulding can be distracting, while one that is too simple may diminish the presence of an artwork. For this reason, adapting the moulding to the decorative style is essential to achieve visual harmony.

In the Intermol catalogue of picture mouldings, a wide range of collections classified by colour, use, material and finish can be found, making it easier to choose the ideal model for each decorative project.

Picture mouldings for classic-style interiors

Classic style is characterised by elegance, noble materials and richness of detail. In these environments, warm tones, deep textures and symmetrical compositions predominate. Mouldings with subtle reliefs, aged gold or silver finishes, and medium or wide profiles are the most appropriate.

For traditional interiors, a gold moulding adds a touch of distinction and enhances artworks with strong visual presence. One example from the Intermol catalogue is the Pine 6993 moulding in aged gold combined with black, part of the ROTTERDAM collection, which fits perfectly in classic living rooms and elegant offices.

Wood-tone mouldings are also highly suitable, especially for spaces dominated by dark wood furniture and textured fabrics. This type of moulding, with a satin finish, adds depth and reinforces the feeling of warmth in traditional interiors.

When working with artworks or antique portraits, it is advisable for the framing to have a certain visual presence. A moulding with a decorative profile can act as a visual extension of the artwork, helping to focus the viewer’s attention and maintain balance with the surrounding décor.

Picture mouldings for Nordic-style interiors

Nordic style is based on simplicity, brightness and the use of natural materials. Scandinavian interiors seek visual calm and functionality, so mouldings should integrate discreetly into the overall composition.

In these spaces, neutral colours predominate, particularly white, beige and light grey. For this reason, white lacquered mouldings or those in light wood tones are the most recommended. Within the Intermol catalogue, the category of white picture mouldings offers ideal options to achieve the sense of spaciousness and purity characteristic of Nordic interiors.

A slim white moulding stands out against light-coloured walls without creating excessive contrast, allowing the artwork to retain its prominence. Alternatively, to introduce warmth, natural wood mouldings or finishes in ash or beech can be chosen, both of which are very common in Scandinavian interiors.

In spaces with abundant natural light, matt or lightly textured mouldings are the best choice, as they prevent glare and maintain a soft, balanced aesthetic.

Picture mouldings for industrial-style interiors

Industrial style is inspired by former factory spaces and combines materials such as iron, concrete, brick and aged wood. It is a style that conveys character and authenticity, and mouldings should reflect this urban aesthetic.

The most suitable mouldings for these environments are aluminium mouldings, dark wood profiles or those with distressed finishes and rough textures. In the category of aluminium picture mouldings, it is possible to find sober, contemporary profiles that are perfect for framing photographs, prints or large-format illustrations.

Undecorated solid wood mouldings are also highly appropriate, as they are made from noble woods that pair well with this type of décor. A wooden moulding integrates seamlessly with exposed brick walls or polished concrete, providing visual coherence and a contemporary touch.

In industrial spaces, it is advisable to maintain straight profiles and clean lines. This type of moulding does not seek to stand out on its own, but rather to accompany the artwork discreetly and reinforce the overall concept of the environment.

Practical criteria for choosing mouldings according to decorative style

Although each style has its own rules, there are some general principles that can guide the selection process:

Material and finish

• In classic style interiors, solid wood mouldings with gold, silver or patinated finishes are recommended.
• In Nordic style interiors, light-coloured, lacquered or natural mouldings are the most suitable.
• In industrial style interiors, metallic, aged or untreated finishes convey the authentic character of the space.

Colour and tone

The moulding should complement the colour palette of the space. In classic interiors, warm tones and gold finishes create harmony. In Nordic spaces, whites and light greys maintain a sense of openness. In industrial environments, blacks and dark browns provide balance against materials such as metal or concrete.

Profile and ornamentation

The profile volume and level of detail should be adapted to the style. In classic interiors, mouldings with reliefs and decorative edges are acceptable. In Nordic interiors, slim and straight profiles are preferred. In industrial interiors, clean lines and a complete absence of ornamentation prevail.

Proportion and balance

The size of the moulding should be proportional to the artwork and the space in which it will be displayed. A large piece requires a moulding with visual presence, while a smaller artwork benefits from a lighter moulding that does not overwhelm it.

Integration with the environment

The moulding should act as a bridge between the artwork and its surroundings. For example, a gold moulding pairs well with elegant upholstery and dark furniture in a classic space. A white moulding fits seamlessly with neutral walls and functional furniture in a Nordic interior. A metallic or aged moulding reinforces the aesthetic of an industrial loft.

Examples of recommended mouldings

• Collection of white mouldings: ideal for Nordic environments where brightness and simplicity prevail.
• Collection of wood-tone mouldings: perfect for classic interiors with wooden furniture and traditional décor.
• Collection of aluminium mouldings: recommended for industrial-style projects and contemporary spaces.

These categories can be consulted in the picture mouldings section of Intermol, where a wide variety of profiles and finishes are available to suit any decorative project.

Recommendations for interior designers and framers

Design and framing professionals can make full use of the Intermol catalogue to offer more comprehensive advice. Keeping a sample display organised by style makes client selection easier. It is also advisable to present combinations of moulding, artwork and environment in order to visualise the final result before assembly.

The use of quality materials combined with appropriate finishing ensures a durable and visually coherent result. In projects where the décor follows a clearly defined style, a well-chosen moulding can be the detail that makes the difference. For this reason, selecting picture mouldings according to decorative style is a key decision to achieve balance and visual coherence. In classic style interiors, the moulding adds elegance and tradition. In Nordic style interiors, it reinforces brightness and design purity. In industrial style interiors, it accentuates the urban character and authenticity of the space.

Choosing the right moulding not only enhances the artwork, but also transforms the perception of the space, turning each framed piece into a focal element within the decorative ensemble.