Architectural Molding Vents

"When a Designer Vents"
May 2021

Designing with interior architectural moulding can present many challenges; not the least of which is the assimilation of mechanical and electrical elements with the final finishes. More often than not, as the mechanical engineers become attached with the launch of a new construction project, concessions for design are not always considered in the calculations and specifications of an air conditioning plan. Supply and return vents are many times scattered pell-mell throughout the structure with little heed paid to the moulding design. And obviously in the case of the renovation of an existing home the expense of relocating vents is most times cost prohibitive.

So the task of integrating the final mouldings and vents very often falls into our lap. Fortunately, when you’ve been in business for over a century, there is little in the way of challenges that can throw you. And as such we’ve learned to look upon these as opportunities to bring the design of our motifs into the grills of the vents themselves.

We have used many of our fretwork and bulleted designs for example to conceal air supply vents as they occur in the upper portion of a wall where it meets the ceiling. Many times we will incorporate a frieze design here, which provides the perfect opportunity to hide the vent.

We have adapted much of these linear and frieze pieces on our catalogue to be “laced”, or “open-backed” to allow for the dispensation of air. Even on close inspection it is difficult to discover the vent.

Ceilings themselves are a marvelous opportunity to employ this technique. A ceiling border or runner will facilitate this type of concealment nicely. We’ve also created some beautiful open-back rinceau ornament in this style. We even have pieces that separately serve as grills themselves.

If you are addressing the unnerving task of assimilating mechanical or electrical elements into your final ornamental design, do not be dismayed. We encounter these challenges daily and have the ability to present you with a myriad of beautiful solutions to these issues. Give us a call and speak with one of our Signature Design Specialists. We’re happy to help.