5 Types of Window Moldings

Moldings are used to perfectly frame windows. It's a way to enhance the space, enrich the decor and present a unique appearance.
5 Types of Window Moldings

Last update: 21 June, 2021

In the interior and exterior decoration, different aesthetic possibilities for windows should be contemplated. We’re going to learn about five types of window moldings in order to understand which designs are the most conventional and which are the most innovative.

To enrich your spaces, don’t just resort to objects arranged on shelves or tables. The structure of your home is complemented by certain features that create a well-constructed appearance.

The idea is that we work the interiors with detail, cordiality, and subtlety. Only in this way is it possible to define the decor under the principles of lines and curves. In addition, it’s a way of acquiring dynamism in those spaces that, generally, remain forgotten.

1. The mixed window molding

One of the most common window moldings is the mixtilínea. This comprises a series of straight lines and curves to provide elegance and enrich the window itself. It perfectly delimits the opening and adapts very well to both circular and quadrangular spaces.

It receives this name because of the variety of lines that form concave and convex systems. In fact, they’re not built vertically but form an oblique and end in a large curved projection and protecting the upper part.

The function they fulfill is fundamentally aesthetic, however, they can also help to protect the entry of light and even work as a dust cover. In this way, it frames the structure without losing balance or harmony.

5 types of window moldings

2. Polystyrene window moldings

One of the materials that are making its way into the world of decoration is polystyrene; a thermoplastic that offers great resistance and durability, whether it’s indoors or outdoors. Let’s see some of its characteristics:

  • Generally, its appearance is white, which allows it to combine with other resources that are, for example, dark in color. This treatment is much more functional.
  • It works easily and can be found in different formats. It must be borne in mind that it’s a product that, once modeled, is adaptable to any surface.
  • If it suffers strong impacts, it can break. After all, it serves to decorate and beautify, so any type of deterioration must be avoided.
  • It’s usually found indoors where it receives greater protection. Even so, it’s also suitable for the outdoors, as long as it doesn’t suffer too much wear.

3. Arch-shaped molding

Another very interesting format is the arch molding; characterized by ends cut that don’t project vertically.

Also, you can find other variants such as semicircular or oval. Everything will depend on the type of window you have and the meaning you intend to convey. Keep in mind that it’s an appropriate resource for country houses.

5 types of window moldings

4. The basic rectangular format

If we don’t want a design with incoming and outgoing curved lines, it’s convenient to assess a format that, in reality, has become one of the most common. We’re referring to rectangular geometry.

This becomes a firm bet for the decoration of minimalist interiors. In any case, consider this an appropriate resource to frame the windows and enhance them without complicating the aesthetics. This typology is probably the most popular.

5. Molding with symbolic decoration

Within the group of subtle and elegant window moldings, there are the Baroque and classic designs that are worked to achieve a single purpose: elegance in a more direct way. They comprise linear combinations, the complete opposite to minimalism.

We find ourselves, therefore, with a different approach than the one we’ve addressed previously. It conveys a meaning that, aesthetically, draws more attention.


All cited sources were thoroughly reviewed by our team to ensure their quality, reliability, currency, and validity. The bibliography of this article was considered reliable and of academic or scientific accuracy.


  • Montes de Oca, Irina; Risco, Lucía: Apuntes de diseño de interiores, Lima, Universidad Peruana de Ciencias Aplicadas, 2016.