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Furniture & Design Dictionary](/content/school/furniture-design-glossary/index.html)
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Millwork & Trim
Millwork & Trim
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MILLWORK & TRIM
What’s the difference between millwork and trim anyway?
Depending on who you ask, millwork and trim (and even molding) can be used interchangeably. (If you ask us, we’ll tell you exactly that!) If we’re getting technical though, there are a couple of minor differences worth calling out.
Trim: This is a general term that’s used to describe the molding in a home. This can be baseboards, window casings, or door casings, to name a few.
Millwork: Millwork goes beyond what trim does. In other words, not every home has millwork, although every home has trim. It adds a level of extra detail and beauty to a room. Think about the dramatic crown molding you love in old, historical homes! Or those swoon-worthy curvy, custom staircases in your recently saved Pinterest photos!
MILLWORK & TRIM
What’s the difference between millwork and trim anyway?
Trim: This is a general term that’s used to describe the molding in a home. This can be baseboards, window casings, or door casings, to name a few.
What’s the difference between millwork and trim anyway?
Trim: This is a general term that’s used to describe the molding in a home. This can be baseboards, window casings, or door casings, to name a few.
MILLWORK & TRIM
What’s the difference between millwork and trim anyway?
Trim: This is a general term that’s used to describe the molding in a home. This can be baseboards, window casings, or door casings, to name a few.
MILLWORK & TRIM
MILLWORK & TRIM
What’s the difference between millwork and trim anyway?
Trim: This is a general term that’s used to describe the molding in a home. This can be baseboards, window casings, or door casings, to name a few.
MILLWORK & TRIM
What’s the difference between millwork and trim anyway?
Trim: This is a general term that’s used to describe the molding in a home. This can be baseboards, window casings, or door casings, to name a few.
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Here are some popular types of millwork and trim.
Baseboard\
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Millwork that connects the area where the floor meets the wall.
Baseboard Cap\
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Detailed pieces that rest on top of the baseboard. Think: cap, aka hat!
Baseboard Shoe\
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A thin strip of molding that lines the bottom of the baseboard.
Crown Molding\
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A decorative trim or molding that is installed along the top edge of interior walls where they meet the ceiling.
Chair Rail\
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A wall molding installed about three feet above (and parallel to) your floor.
Door Casing\
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The functional (and decorative) molding used to frame your doors.
Window Casing\
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The functional (and decorative) molding used to frame your windows.
Wainscoting\
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Decorative paneling installed on the lower portion of interior walls, typically covering the area between the baseboard and chair rail.
Beadboard\
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Architectural element made out of thin vertical strips, topped off with a piece of horizontal molding.
Board and Batten\
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A style of wall treatment or siding featuring alternating wide vertical boards and narrow strips called battens.
Tray Ceiling\
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A ceiling design characterized by a central section that is elevated or recessed (usually about a foot higher) compared to the surrounding areas, creating a tray-like appearance.
Coffered Ceiling\
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A ceiling design adorned with a grid-like pattern of recessed panels or beams.
Shiplap\
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A type of wooden siding or wall paneling where long, horizontally overlapping boards fit together with a slight gap between them.
Tongue and Groove\
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A joining method where two pieces of wood or other materials have interlocking edges.
Panel Molding\
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Decorative trim or molding installed on walls to create framed or paneled sections.
Window Sill\
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The horizontal ledge or shelf located at the bottom of a window opening (typically collecting dust!).
Here are some popular types of millwork and trim.
Baseboard
Millwork that connects the area where the floor meets the wall.
Baseboard Cap
Detailed pieces that rest on top of the baseboard. Think: cap, aka hat!
Baseboard Shoe
A thin strip of molding that lines the bottom of the baseboard.
Crown Molding
A decorative trim or molding that is installed along the top edge of interior walls where they meet the ceiling.
Chair Rail
A wall molding installed about three feet above (and parallel to) your floor.
Door Casing
The functional (and decorative) molding used to frame your doors.
Window Casing
The functional (and decorative) molding used to frame your windows.
Wainscoting
Decorative paneling installed on the lower portion of interior walls, typically covering the area between the baseboard and chair rail.
Beadboard
Architectural element made out of thin vertical strips, topped off with a piece of horizontal molding.
Board and Batten
A style of wall treatment or siding featuring alternating wide vertical boards and narrow strips called battens.
Tray Ceiling
A ceiling design characterized by a central section that is elevated or recessed (usually about a foot higher) compared to the surrounding areas, creating a tray-like appearance.
Coffered Ceiling
A ceiling design adorned with a grid-like pattern of recessed panels or beams.
Shiplap
A type of wooden siding or wall paneling where long, horizontally overlapping boards fit together with a slight gap between them.
Tongue and Groove
A joining method where two pieces of wood or other materials have interlocking edges.
Panel Molding
Decorative trim or molding installed on walls to create framed or paneled sections.
Window Sill
The horizontal ledge or shelf located at the bottom of a window opening (typically collecting dust!).
Have a question (or two) about all of this? Check out our millwork and trim FAQ below.
When selecting trim for a room, you should consider the architectural style of the space, the desired aesthetic, and how much maintenance you want to deal with. Then, the devil is in the details! Your choice of material and finish of the trim should align with the desired feel/style of the space and the upkeep requirements. Ask your supplier for help figuring out all these details!
Depends on who you're asking! It's possible to do a millwork and trim job yourself, but it comes with trade-offs. We recommend doing your research to determine whether you’re up for the challenge. The benefit of hiring a pro is that they have the expertise, tools, and experience to ensure precise measurements and proper installation techniques.
The installation time for millwork or trim varies depending on the complexity and scope of the project. It can range from a few hours for smaller projects to several days or more for larger or more intricate installations. Some factors to consider are the number of pieces to be installed, the type of trim, and any necessary modifications or adjustments that can impact the installation timeline.
Yes to both! Trim can be painted or stained depending on personal preference and the desired look. Painting will give you more of a range of color options and finishes while staining showcases the natural beauty and grain of the wood. The choice will depend on the type of look you’re going for.
The limit does not exist! For example, crown molding can add height and elegance to a space, while baseboards can provide a finished and polished look to the bottom of walls. Chair rails and wainscoting can introduce visual interest and divide the wall into distinct sections, creating a sense of architectural detail and sophistication. The possibilities are endless!
Yes, trim can be used to make a small room appear larger. By selecting trim in lighter colors and avoiding heavy or ornate profiles, the trim can create a visual illusion of expanded space. Design wizardry!
Ideally, you’re installing millwork or trim before painting the walls. This allows for seamless painting of the walls and trim. That said, you can totally do the installation after painting the walls. We recommend doing a coat of paint on your trim beforehand and being extra cautious when taping around the trim after.
The specific tools needed for millwork or trim installation may vary depending on the project, but commonly used tools include a miter saw for precise angle cuts, a nail gun or hammer for securing the trim, a level for ensuring straight installation, measuring tape, a coping saw for detailed cuts, sandpaper for smoothing edges, and a caulk gun for sealing joints. Pro-Tip: You can rent some of these tools from shops like Home Depot or Lowes.
The good news is it’s pretty simple. Proper maintenance of millwork or trim involves regular cleaning with a soft cloth or mild detergent to remove dust or dirt. Depending on the material, periodic refinishing, like re-staining or repainting, may be required to keep the trim looking its best. Or if you like a natural patina, then you’re golden!
Yes, millwork and trim can be customized to fit unique design requirements. Custom millwork and trim can be crafted to match specific dimensions, styles, or design concepts — even the most unique and complex ones! Working with a skilled millwork professional or carpenter can help bring complicated design visions to life by creating custom pieces tailored to the project's specific needs.
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Accent Chair\
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A chair that complements the sofa (or other existing furniture) in a room. Otherwise known as a lounge chair!\
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Seating
Adhesive\
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A substance used for bonding tiles to surfaces.\
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Design Lingo
Alcove\
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A recessed part of a room—perfect for placing shelves and styling cozy corners!\
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Architecture
Antique\
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An item that has existed for 100 or more years (and some of our favorite pieces to source for). \
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Design Lingo
Architectural Lighting\
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Lighting that highlights the architecture and design within a space through electric and natural light.\
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Lighting
Art Deco\
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This design style is characterized by bold colors, ornate elements, bold geometry, and lavish detail work. Also known as Arts Décoratifs!\
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arts decoratifs\
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Design Styles
Backing\
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Material that’s used as a base over which a tile is installed. Aka, backerboard. \
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Design Styles
Backsplash\
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A panel of tile behind a sink or stove that protects the wall from water and liquid splashes (while looking really good, too).\
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Design Lingo
Balustrades\
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A series of vertical supports, typically consisting of balusters or spindles, topped by a handrail.\
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Design Lingo
Banquette\
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A seat or bench (either freestanding or built-in) designed to fit into a space, typically running along a wall.\
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Seating
Baseboard\
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Millwork that connects the area where the floor meets the wall.\
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Design Lingo
Baseboard Cap\
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Detailed pieces that rest on top of the baseboard. Think: cap, aka hat!\
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Design Lingo
Baseboard Shoe\
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A thin strip of molding that lines the bottom of the baseboard.\
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Design Lingo
Battiscopa\
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A floor trim that goes between the wall and floor. Aka, skirting board.\
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Design Lingo
Beadboard\
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Architectural element made out of thin vertical strips, topped off with a piece of horizontal molding.\
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Architecture
Bed Frame\
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A frame (or platform) that a bed rests on, typically paired with a headboard for optimal lounging and catching zzz's.\
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Casegoods
Bench\
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A long seat, best suited for several people to sit on (the more the merrier!).\
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Seating
Bench Made\
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A term used to describe any piece of furniture made by one artisan from beginning to end—not necessarily on a bench, but that's the origin of the term.\
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Design Lingo
Board and Batten\
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A style of wall treatment or siding featuring alternating wide vertical boards and narrow strips called battens.\
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Architecture
Bohemian\
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A design style that captures the carefree and adventurous spirit inside of us all.\
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Design Styles
Bolster\
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Cylindrical-shaped pillows that are often found on sofas, beds, or wherever else you feel like lounging.\
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Decor
Boucle\
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A thick, often “heavy” textile containing nubby, looped fabric to create texture.\
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Textiles
Broken Joint\
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A tile pattern where a row is offset for half of its length (not an actual broken joint).\
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Design Lingo
Bull Nose\
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A trim tile with a finished edge.\
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Design Styles
Casegood\
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Furniture made of hard materials, such as wood, metal, glass or plastic.\
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Design Lingo
Caulk\
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Waterproof filler used to seal joints and make tile joints watertight.\
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Design Lingo
Cement Board\
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A cement panel reinforced with fiberglass that's used as a substrate for tile installation.\
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Design Lingo
Chair Rail\
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A wall molding installed about three feet above (and parallel to) your floor.\
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Design Lingo
Chaise Lounge\
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An upholstered sofa in the shape of a chair that is long enough to prop one's legs up on (preferably while reading your favorite book). Also known as a daybed.\
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daybed\
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Seating
Chandelier\
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A light fixture that hangs from the ceiling, usually with multiple light bulbs as part of the fixture.\
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Lighting
Coastal\
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This design style's philosophy is mixing classic design with a comfortable and relaxed feeling of seaside life.\
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Design Styles
Coefficient of Friction\
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The measurement of resistance to friction, aka how slip resistant a tile is. \
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Design Lingo
Coffee Table\
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A low table designed to be placed in the center of a sitting area for convenient support of beverages (ahem: coffee!) and other decorative items.\
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Tables
Coffered Ceiling\
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A ceiling design adorned with a grid-like pattern of recessed panels or beams.\
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Design Lingo
Conference Table\
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A long table, usually found in offices (spoiler alert: to hold conferences), that’s supported by one center base of four or more legs.\
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Tables
Console\
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A wide table, often placed against a wall or behind a sofa, for storage and displaying decor.\
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Tables
Contemporary\
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A free spirited design style that isn’t tied to a specific time period and evolves with whatever is happening at the time (though it usually borrows from modern design).\
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Design Styles
Counter Stool\
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A raised seat that is typically placed at a bar, behind a kitchen counter, or at high tables. Also known as a barstool!\
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Seating
Cove Base\
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A trim tile having a convex radius with a flat landing on the bottom edge. \
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Sanitary Base\
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Design Lingo
Credenza\
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A sideboard used to display dinnerware storage (or whatever else you want!) in or around the dining room.\
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Casegoods
Crown Molding\
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A decorative trim or molding that is installed along the top edge of interior walls where they meet the ceiling.\
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Architecture
Cure\
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The time that a tile setting material must be undisturbed and allowed to set. Also, a rock band!\
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Design Lingo
Damask\
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A heavy reversible fabric featuring a (rather luxe) woven pattern that's distinguished from the contrasting pop against the background fabric. Also a common printed wallpaper pattern.\
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Fabrics
Decorative Lighting\
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Encompasses all traditional lighting (pendants, floor lamps, chandeliers, etc).\
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Lighting
Demilune\
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A semi-circular (like a half-moon) shaped console table.\
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Tables
Dining Chair\
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A seat designed to be used at a dining table during meals (but often also found elsewhere in the home or office).\
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Seating
Door Casing\
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The functional (and decorative) molding used to frame your doors.\
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Design Lingo
Eclectic\
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Quite literally like the definition of the word itself, this design style combines various textures, time-periods, styles, trends, and colors to create the full look.\
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Design Styles
Elevation\
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A two-dimensional drawing of a wall (or series of walls) with varying degrees of detail.\
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Design Lingo
Epoxy Adhesive\
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A two-part adhesive system consisting of epoxy resin and epoxy hardener. \
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Design Lingo
Epoxy Grout\
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Used to fill joints between tiles.\
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Design Lingo
Etagere\
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A super fancy sounding word for “a freestanding shelving unit.”\
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Design Lingo
Facade\
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The face of a building, especially the front that includes the primary entrance.\
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Architecture
Farm Table\
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A simple wood table that incorporates a rustic finish, usually for dining (though not always on a farm). Also known as a harvest table!\
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harvest table\
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Tables
Field Tile\
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The primary tile used to cover a wall or floor.\
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Design Lingo
Finial\
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Decorative caps at the top of a table or floor lamp. Finials come in all shapes, colors, and sizes.\
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Lighting
Floor Plan\
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A diagram depicting a bird’s eye view of a space, often with dimensions and furniture notes.\
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Design Lingo
Game Table\
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A table that is designed specifically for gaming—the OG kind of games like chess, cards or backgammon.\
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Tables
Grout\
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A mortar used to fill the joints between tiles. Your best friend when tiling! \
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Design Lingo
Hue\
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The actual color you’re referring to (e.g., blue). \
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Color
Interior Wall\
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A wall found on the inside of a house (duh) designed either to bear structural weight or divide sections of a space. Paint 'em, hang stuff on 'em, and have some fun!\
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Architecture
Jacquard\
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A woven, highly textured fabric whose design is incorporated into the weave rather than being stamped or printed on the material.\
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Fabrics
Kilim\
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A flat-woven tapestry rug or fabric, typically hung on a wall or placed on the floor (you decide). We don't make the rules!!\
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Fabrics
Lappato\
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A tile finish, also known as semi-polished.\
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Design Lingo
Listello\
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A decorative border, primarily for walls.\
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Design Lingo
Loveseat\
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A small sofa built for two people (who may or may not be in love).\
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Seating
Mantel\
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A decorative framework around a fireplace that often protrudes out to create a ledge.\
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Decor
Mastic\
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A wall tile adhesive used to bond tile to wall substrates.\
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Design Lingo
Mid-Century Modern\
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Originated in the 1940s (and is still alive and well today!), this design style is all about keeping things functional and timeless.\
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Design Styles
Modern Farmhouse\
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A design style that emulates Joanna Gaines but with a very modern and elevated twist.\
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Design Styles
Mood Board\
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A visual representation or a collage board to help communicate your design idea.\
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Design Lingo
Mud\
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A slang term referring to thick-bed mortar consisting of sand and cement.\
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Design Lingo
Panel Molding\
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Decorative trim or molding installed on walls to create framed or paneled sections.\
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Materials
Pendant\
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A single light fixture that hangs from the ceiling with a chain, rod, or cord.\
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Lighting
Proportion\
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An understanding of the scale of specific elements within the same room or object.\
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Design Lingo
Rattan\
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Popular in boho designs, this is a type of palm with long and tough stems that is used in wickerwork.\
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Materials
Rendering\
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A realistic representation of a design, usually in the form of a 2D or 3D model, created with a design software… like Spoak!\
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Design Lingo
Roman Shade\
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A fabric window covering that folds horizontally when draped open or shut (not just made for the Romans).\
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Fabrics
Rug\
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A floor covering made of a thick, woven material that will protect your floors—and make your space look really good, too! \
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Textiles
Rustic\
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This design style takes a lot of inspiration from the outdoors, and generally appears to be a combo of both industrial and modern farmhouse styles. \
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Design Styles
Sanitary Base\
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A floor tile trim with a rounded finished top like a bullnose to cove up the body of the tile.\
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Design Lingo
Saturation\
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The intensity of a color.\
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Color
Scale\
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The size of one object in relation to another (and how well your pieces fit to your space in general). \
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Design Lingo
Sconce\
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A type of light fixture that is mounted to a wall, often at eye level.\
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Lighting
Sealer\
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Helps prevent the absorption of liquids and debris. Aka, tile protector!\
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Design Lingo
Sectional\
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A type of sofa that consists of two or more joined sections for sitting (or sleeping... zzzzzzz...).\
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Seating
Settee\
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A long, upholstered seat with back and arms designed to fit more than one person.\
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Seating
Shade\
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When black is added to a hue or mixture of colors.\
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Color
Shiplap\
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A type of wooden siding or wall paneling where long, horizontally overlapping boards fit together with a slight gap between them.\
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Architecture
Side Table\
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Like the name suggests, side tables are placed beside a piece of furniture for easy access for things you frequently use.\
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Tables
Sofa\
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A long, upholstered seat usually with arms and a back, and probably the comfiest piece of furniture in your living room.\
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Seating
Spacers\
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Cross-shaped plastic pieces used to evenly separate tile during install.\
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Design Lingo
Stool\
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A seat without a back or arms, usually resting on a single pedestal or three or four legs.\
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Seating
Surface Mount\
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A light texture that sits on a flat surface (like a ceiling). Also known as a flush mount light!\
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flush mounts\
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Lighting
Swivel Chair\
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A chair whose seat is able to be turned by the base to face any direction.\
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Seating
Tapestry\
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A highly decorative woven fabric often hung on a wall without a frame.\
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Fabrics
Thinset\
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An adhesive used to attach tiles to a substrate, aka adhesive.\
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Adhesive\
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Design Lingo
Tint\
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Any hue or mixture of colors where white is added.\
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Color
[Tone\
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When grey is added to a hue or mixture of colors.\
Tongue and Groove\
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A joining method where two pieces of wood or other materials have interlocking edges. \
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Design Lingo
Sources:
Litchfield Builders | Casework vs. Millwork
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