Millwork is all the visible custom woodwork, including doors, window sashes and trim, that adds architectural integrity to a residential or commercial project.

Millwork, which is made at a mill, includes:

• paneled walls
• cabinetry in the kitchen and other rooms
• crown and other decorative moldings
• doors and door casings
• windows
• staircases
• shelving
• columns
• fireplace mantels

Millwork often is done by expert craftsmen who are extensively trained in old-world techniques.

Millwork adds detail to homes, both indoors and outdoors. Credit: Joshua Hibbert/Unsplash

Often interior designers will recommend painting millwork a different color than the rest of a room (this is particularly popular with trims around windows and doors) in order to add interest. Standout trims can be a good way to add a punch of color, to delineate separate spaces and to tie the room and furniture pieces together.

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And while millwork is usually associated with traditional design, more interior designers are using clean lines and simple moldings to make millwork feel more modern.

For more design tips and tricks, check out Mansion Global's Designer's Corner column.