ARCHES ARE BACK - AND THEY ARE HERE TO STAY .....

Hey, design lovers!

If you’ve been following the design world lately, you’ve probably noticed something that’s curved its way back into our homes: arches! And let me tell you – this isn’t just a passing trend. Arches are making a glorious return, and they’re here to stay. I couldn’t be more excited to incorporate these graceful shapes into my work because, let’s face it: arches add so much personality, elegance, and a bit of whimsy to any space!

For the last two decades, we’ve been living in a world of sharp angles and straight lines. Don’t get me wrong, there’s a time and place for that modern, minimalist aesthetic, but after a while, those hard lines can feel a little... well, harsh. What’s been missing? A softness! A welcoming flow! That’s where arches come in.

Why Arches Are a Game Changer

1. Softening the Lines Arches bring a lovely, organic flow to a room. They gently break up the rigidity of modern spaces, creating a more relaxed atmosphere. This is especially important in an age where we’re all craving comfort and sanctuary in our homes. Whether it's an arched doorway, a curved window, or an archway that leads from one room to another, these gentle curves draw the eye in a way that straight lines just can’t.

   
   
   
   

In one of our recent projects, we added a "butler’s pantry" to give our entertaining client more space. To ensure the rooms flowed seamlessly, we introduced an archway between the two. The moment we added it, the transition between the spaces felt effortless. That was the missing link! To enhance the effect even more, we added a second arch on the other side of the room, creating a guided walkway that connected each space with a harmonious flow.

Adding Architectural Drama even the simplest of arches can transform a room from “nice” to “wow.” Arches give a space architectural drama without going over the top. You don’t need to overdo it with ornate details. A minimalist arch, made of simple materials like wood or plaster, can pack just as much of a punch. It’s all about balance—let the arch be the star of the show, and let everything else support it.

Versatility in Design One of the things I absolutely love about arches is their versatility. They work with almost any style – from modern and contemporary to Mediterranean, boho, or even traditional. I love how it brings a sophisticated feel in our recent transtional kitchen design. You can mix and match arches with various materials and textures, making them work in just about any design you’re drawn to.

A Nod to History Arches have been around for centuries. From ancient Roman architecture to the Spanish missions of the Southwest, arches carry with them a sense of timelessness. Using them in your design gives a nod to history, which is so beautiful! There's something about drawing on these architectural elements that gives a room a sense of depth and character.

Let’s Talk Functionality Not only do arches look gorgeous, but they also have practical uses. Creating a sense of openness and flow between spaces while maintaining a level of division. In homes where open-plan living is popular, arches can be a perfect solution for defining spaces without the need for walls. They allow light and air to flow freely, creating an inviting and airy feel.

How to Incorporate Arches in Your Home

So, now you’re thinking, "Okay, I’m on board! But where do I start?" I’ve got you covered.

• Doorways & Windows: A classic! Arch-shaped doorways can turn any entry into something extraordinary. Or, you can swap out a basic rectangular window for something curved to let in that gorgeous natural light.

  We are currently working on a project

• Arched Mirrors: This is a subtle way to incorporate arches without making a huge commitment. Arched mirrors are a beautiful addition to any wall, adding character while reflecting the light and space around them.

  
  

  

  Arched mirrors in the primary bathroom tie in with the arches in the downstairs area of the home.

  
  

  • Furniture: Yes, even furniture can have arches!

    
    

    

    The Oasis side table is great piece to add to your living room, bringing a coastal vibe https://clarerileyhome.com/products/oasis-console-tableArches

Suntone Pemberton furniture project

Arches come in many forms when it comes to furnishings. Chairs, sofas, tables, and shelving. Bringing curves into furniture design in the most fun and unexpected in ways. At our recent project in Sunstone in Pemberton, when we walked in, we were in awe of the stunning views. Our eyes were drawn to all the sharp lines and edges in the archectual design of the townhomes.

We wanted to bring some softness to the interior, selecting furniture with curves and muted tones was the way we accomplished this. Curved dining chairs in a beige were the perfect selection for this home. You can buy them at https://clarerileyhome.com/products/mila-dining-chair

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• Archways Between Rooms: Open up your living space with an archway separating the kitchen from the living room or the living room from the dining area. This helps to maintain an airy, connected feel while still giving each area its distinct vibe. In this space, we wanted to create a natural walkway from the entry through the kitchen to the pantry. by using arches we achieved this stunning look.

  
  

  

  The archway entry to this kitchen creates a natural flow

  
  

• Arched Ceilings: For a bit of drama and grandeur, consider an arched ceiling. Whether it’s a vaulted ceiling or a simple curve, this architectural feature can make a room feel taller and more spacious, giving your home a regal touch.

Let’s Keep the Curves Coming!

In the world of design, trends come and go, but arches are definitely here to stay for the long haul. As we embrace a more playful, organic approach to interiors, arches will continue to provide that perfect balance of softness, elegance, and charm.

I love this arched hallway design, so much elegance and grandeur. https://www.instagram.com/p/C-OkkkKSAbP/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

So, if you’re looking to soften up your space, break up those hard lines, and add some architectural personality, don’t hesitate to bring arches into the mix.

Whether it’s a grand entryway or a subtle detail, they’ll make your space feel more inviting and, dare I say it, a little bit magical.

Keep it playful, keep it soft, and keep it curved – because arches are the new straight lines.