We love the arched entrances, niches and furniture that have emerged in recent years. Inspired by Renaissance architecture, modern arches bring an organic, dynamic sense of flow to interiors, offering an alternative to familiar angular openings and spaces.
Curving forms and circular designs echo nature, bringing positive energy and a sense of relaxation to interiors. These gentle shapes are finding their way from bathrooms, our places of cleansing, into every living space. Here, we explore why and how this major trend has encouraged interior designers to rediscover arches, niches and more.
From the Colosseum in Rome to the Valens Aqueduct in Istanbul, arches have long been powerful architectural and structural elements, appearing in different forms across cultures from East to West. Today's interpretations can largely be described as modern arches, but the range of shapes and types is almost endless. Choose a form that suits your intended style, materials and setting.
Arches can be used in wall niches, windows, openings, doorways, entrances and furniture. Paired with strong colours that add contrast, their presence becomes even more striking.
Curves always lend a space an organic feel. They help us associate it with nature, creating a sense of relaxation and tranquillity while we are there.
Most interiors are built around clear lines and defined, straight edges, while nature rarely offers perfectly straight lines. Introducing the curves of an arch creates a contrast with linear elements, making living spaces more interesting and dynamic.
Halls, corridors and lobbies can gain an appealing new dimension and visual character, transforming overlooked or uninspiring areas.
Arches help define large areas without completely separating them. You can sense the boundaries of each space while still feeling that both belong to a larger whole.
Arches draw the eye towards the height of the walls, helping a room feel more spacious.
Architectural arches can also serve practical purposes. Shape built-in cupboards in a living room or bedroom, or a niche in the shower, with an arched form.
Let us explore ways to bring arches into your interiors for a modern interpretation of a classic form.
Whether building from scratch or renovating, consider making some doorways arched. Open arches connect rooms rather than separating them, creating an open-plan feeling. They are particularly suited to Scandinavian-inspired interiors, keeping spaces calm, restful and orderly while bringing a sense of hygge.
Arched recesses are both attractive and functional. They provide an elegant setting for shelves, consoles or sofas, especially when painted in contrasting colours. If you do not already have a recess, creating one gives you the freedom to decide its height, width and depth. Start by being clear about how you intend to use it.
Painting an arch is one of the simplest yet most striking ways to introduce the shape into a space. Be as bold as you like, knowing that you can easily repaint it when you want a change. Paint an arch behind a sofa, bed or shelving unit to bring interest to an otherwise empty wall.
Alongside architectural features, furniture and accessories can introduce arches into a space. They can be moved or replaced easily as your taste changes: consider arched mirrors, coffee tables with arched legs, arched cabinets or rugs with arch patterns.Whether creating a vintage-inspired interior or a modern Nordic space, arches are a versatile choice for almost any design project. Use furniture and accessories to make this design element your own.
