Feature Story

"Interior Doorway Arch Trim: Enhance Your Space with Elegance"

By Walter Jun 28, 2026

Transforming the transition between rooms is as simple as installing interior doorway arch trim. This architectural detail not only adds aesthetic appeal but also enhances the functionality of your space. Let's delve into the world of doorway arch trims, exploring their types, benefits, and installation processes.

an archway leading into a living room with hard wood flooring and white painted walls
an archway leading into a living room with hard wood flooring and white painted walls

Understanding Doorway Arch Trim

an arched door with a white light on it's side and a mirror above it
an arched door with a white light on it's side and a mirror above it

Doorway arch trim, also known as door surround trim or architrave, is a decorative molding that frames the opening of a doorway. It serves both functional and aesthetic purposes, protecting the walls from door edges and adding a touch of elegance to your interior.

Types of Doorway Arch Trim

an arch leading into a living room with wood floors
an arch leading into a living room with wood floors

Doorway arch trims come in a variety of styles and materials, allowing you to choose the perfect fit for your home's aesthetic. Here are some popular types:

  • Rectangular: Simple and versatile, rectangular arch trims are suitable for contemporary and traditional styles alike.
  • Oval: Adding a soft, curved touch, oval arch trims are ideal for creating a romantic or vintage atmosphere.
  • Elliptical: Similar to oval but with a more elongated shape, elliptical arch trims are perfect for creating a grand entrance.
  • Cathedral: Characterized by their pointed arches, cathedral arch trims are reminiscent of Gothic architecture and add a dramatic flair to your space.
a close up of a door frame with an arch on the wall in front of it
a close up of a door frame with an arch on the wall in front of it

Benefits of Installing Doorway Arch Trim

Installing doorway arch trim offers more than just aesthetic advantages. Here are some benefits you might not have considered:

  • **Protects Walls:** Doorway arch trim shields your walls from door edges, preventing scuffs, scratches, and even damage from daily use.
  • **Enhances Soundproofing:** By filling the gap between the door frame and the wall, arch trim can help reduce noise transfer between rooms.
  • **Adds Value:** Like crown molding, doorway arch trim can increase your home's value by adding a touch of luxury and customization.
an arched wooden door leading to a bedroom with a bed in the background and carpet on the floor
an arched wooden door leading to a bedroom with a bed in the background and carpet on the floor

Materials for Doorway Arch Trim

Doorway arch trims can be made from various materials, each with its own advantages:

Material Advantages
Wood Timeless, durable, and offers a wide range of styles. Can be painted or stained to match your decor.
MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) Affordable, lightweight, and easy to install. Can be painted to match any color scheme.
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) Low maintenance, water-resistant, and resistant to warping and rotting. Ideal for high-moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens.
an archway leading to a dining room and living room in a house with hardwood floors
an archway leading to a dining room and living room in a house with hardwood floors

Installing Doorway Arch Trim: A Step-by-Step Guide

Installing doorway arch trim is a DIY project that can be tackled with basic tools and a bit of patience. Here's a simplified step-by-step guide:

an empty living room with wood floors and arched doorways in the center is shown
an empty living room with wood floors and arched doorways in the center is shown
an arch in the middle of a room with white walls and wood floors, as well as
an arch in the middle of a room with white walls and wood floors, as well as
a close up of an arch on a wall with a cell phone in the background
a close up of an arch on a wall with a cell phone in the background
an arched doorway leading into a living room with a fireplace and rug on the floor
an arched doorway leading into a living room with a fireplace and rug on the floor
This item is unavailable - Etsy
This item is unavailable - Etsy
Entryway arch
Entryway arch
an arched door with decorative iron work on the front and side panels, in a home
an arched door with decorative iron work on the front and side panels, in a home
Arched Openings for Remodel — CurveMakers Arch Kits
Arched Openings for Remodel — CurveMakers Arch Kits
Door Gallery | Grand Openings by UDI NWA
Door Gallery | Grand Openings by UDI NWA
an arched doorway leads into a living room
an arched doorway leads into a living room
an arched doorway leads to a living room with white walls and wood floors, along with a large rug on the floor
an arched doorway leads to a living room with white walls and wood floors, along with a large rug on the floor
9 Super-Creative Arched Doorway Ideas That Will Make Your Transitional Spaces the Star of Your Home
9 Super-Creative Arched Doorway Ideas That Will Make Your Transitional Spaces the Star of Your Home
an archway leading into a room with paintings on the wall and lights hanging from it
an archway leading into a room with paintings on the wall and lights hanging from it
Before & After Archway Trim — CurveMakers Arch Kits
Before & After Archway Trim — CurveMakers Arch Kits
an archway leads to the living room and dining area in this elegant home with wood flooring
an archway leads to the living room and dining area in this elegant home with wood flooring
Rounded Corner Arch Kit (2PCS - ONE SET) - Easily Add Corner Arches to Any Opening - DIY - Etsy
Rounded Corner Arch Kit (2PCS - ONE SET) - Easily Add Corner Arches to Any Opening - DIY - Etsy
Bookshelf Arch
Bookshelf Arch
an arched doorway leading to another room
an arched doorway leading to another room
  1. Measure the width and height of your doorway, and cut your arch trim to size.
  2. Mark the center point of the doorway on both sides, then use a level to draw a line from the top of the doorway to the center point, creating the arch shape.
  3. Cut along the line, then test-fit your arch trim. Make adjustments as needed.
  4. Apply construction adhesive along the back of the trim, then nail it into place, using a finish nailer or hammer and nails.
  5. Fill any nail holes with spackling compound, then sand and paint as desired.

Incorporating interior doorway arch trim is a simple yet effective way to elevate your home's aesthetic and functionality. With a variety of styles, materials, and installation methods to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect fit for your space. So go ahead, transform your doorways, and let your home's unique personality shine through.