The Power of Millwork: A Key To A Custom + Aesthetically Pleasing Home

The millwork was designed in this Seattle, Washington home by Sherri Monte, interior designer, at Elegant Simplicity.

We know from working with clients for nearly 15 years, that the fear of making the wrong decision can be paralyzing when it comes to designing your home. 

The overwhelming array of choices, the pressure to create a space that's not just beautiful + functional but also uniquely yours, can leave you unsure of where to even begin. 

But fret no more, friend! We’re breaking down one of the often overlooked subtleties of designing a truly custom space, and that’s millwork.

So… without further ado, let’s dive in, shall we?

What Is Millwork?

Before we delve into the transformative power that millwork has in your home, it's essential to understand what it is. Back in the ol’ days, we’d dial up Mr. Webster for a clear definition but now we can ask Siri, Alexa, ChatGPT or Bard *wink*

So, take your pick friend. In any case, they will almost certainly all lead you back to an elegant and simple definition of how we define millwork.

Millwork refers to the custom detail that adorns your doors, window casings, crown molding, walls + baseboards. 

If you tested us, how close were we? *wink*


“From the grandest architectural elements to the subtlest design details, every aspect of your home should echo your individuality.” quote about millwork by Sherri Monte, Bellevue, Washington interior designer at, Elegant Simplicity.

The Role of Millwork in Your Home

Millwork is essential in your home because it helps to create + then establish a very consistent style throughout your space. 

The millwork in your crown molding, doorways, window casings, and baseboard trim all serves as a unifying element, tying together different design elements and creating a seamless flow from one room to another. 

But millwork's role in your home extends beyond mere cohesion. Whether you're hoping for your home to exude the simplicity of minimalism, the sleek lines of modern design or something in between, millwork should be tailored to not merely unify + create cohesiveness (of course we want it to do that), but also punctuate your personality. It's these intricate details that transform a house into your home, a physical space into your personal sanctuary.

You see, what makes your home unique, from all the other homes out there, is that it’s uniquely yours. And so, we view it as our role as a full-service interior design firm to embellish your story — to share what you value through even the most subtle details. It's not just about creating a beautiful space alone; it's about crafting an environment that resonates with your values, your passions, and your personality. From the grandest architectural elements to the subtlest design details, every aspect of your home should echo your individuality. Millwork offers a unique opportunity to do just that. It's not just about the woodwork; it's about crafting a home that's unmistakably, unapologetically, and uniquely yours.


The Magic of Millwork Infuses Personality

Millwork is a craft that requires a high level of skill and precision that’s why as a luxury interior design firm, we only work with the best craftsmen + women *wink* who are discerning in the use of the absolute best material. 

Because the magic of millwork is profound, boo!

Millwork can absolutely be the key to transforming your home into a luxurious sanctuary. While we often see millwork as a subtle detail to the space, it's more than merely a design element. Millwork is a way to infuse your personality into each + every corner of your home.


The millwork in the dining room was designed in this Seattle, Washington home by Sherri Monte, interior designer at, Elegant Simplicity.

The Benefits of Millwork

There are a several incredible benefits of including millwork into a luxury home:

Aesthetic Appeal 

Millwork improves the visual aesthetic of your home as it creates a very subtle yet profound level of sophistication and elegance to a space. 

Uniqueness

Part of the aesthetic appeal is that millwork is often used in custom applications that create a design element in your home that isn’t mass-produced + seen everywhere. Our team at Elegant Simplicity has gone even as far as creating truly custom millwork profiles for projects to ensure the millwork detail is truly unique to you.

Focal Point

Strategically placed, millwork can serve as a stunning focal point in your home, drawing the eye and adding a touch of elegance on a ceiling or wall that truly sets your space apart.

Personalization 

With millwork detail, we’re not simply slapping wood on a wall but rather truly customizing the design + layout of the millwork to reflect your unique style and taste.


The millwork in the living room was designed in this Bellevue, Washington home by Sherri Monte, interior designer at, Elegant Simplicity.

The Elegant Simplicity Approach

We’ve incorporated millwork in a variety of ways in our projects, from ceiling appliques to oversized wall details that span floor-to-ceiling.

At Elegant Simplicity, we understand design is overwhelming to you + that's why our approach is intended to make the process as seamless and stress-free as possible. 

We start by assessing your current space and understanding your vision for your home. Even if you don’t have one, there’s a vision deep inside of you that we help you discover because home is a mirror reflection of self. You have core values, beliefs, and you know how you want to feel in your home, and we are here to help make that happen:)

We then curate a design plan that aligns with your aesthetic desires and the way life actually unfolds for you. This is the phase where we’re ensuring your home is everything you need + nothing more®. And this is also where we’re designing custom millwork details.

Finally, alongside the best contractors + vendors, we transform your home, incorporating elements like millwork not just around your doorways or window casings but as focal points as well to create a space that's not just beautiful, but also uniquely you.

Designing a home that reflects your style and personality doesn't have to be an overwhelming task. 

With the right design team guiding you *hello friend*, designing your home can be an exciting journey of self-expression and creativity. At Elegant Simplicity, we're committed to helping you navigate this journey + unlocking the power of millwork in your home. Transforming your home into a space that's custom, aesthetically pleasing, and truly yours. 


Well friend, there you have it...everything you need to know about the power of millwork! And don’t forget, if you’re in the preliminary planning stages of your next project, let’s chat

Psst… Check out our FREE Video Course:4 Days To A More Beautiful + Functional Home