I think you should paint your sample first - it appears to work - my only concern is the flat “plane” where the new meets the existing - the joint might need to be filled.

I’ve highlighted the joint I’m referring to:

Sure, I was thinking that too and thought I could just lightly caulk if that was a problem.

Yes, I think having the high point of the molding in the center looks pretty weird. I'd look at options that continue to get thicker as you move out from the door, starting with trying just a plain board that stands just higher than your existing trim. Unfortunately it looks like the outer edge of the trim you have has been rounded over so you will end up with an odd groove. Caulk will not look good there.

I'm afraid you'll get a much better result by designing something from scratch.

I agree, that's always going to look like you put 2 pieces of trim next to each other. Sorry.

Bulking up trim can be done successfully. You just have to find the right combination of trim. I suggest you go to your local home improvement store and buy sample pieces to try out on the trim until you find a combo that works.

I would need to see this from further back but as for what you show IMO looks exactly like what it is you tacked on another piece of trim

Thanks everyone. I agree. I think it could kind of work but I do think is is 'off.' I have been trying to find some good back band moulding but not having much luck. I did buy a simple flat strip that I am considering but am still not sure. Do you think this is better? I have it flat to the trim and the other way which is thinner and makes a noticeable edge with the existing trim.

This last pic looks like a better choice!

I think this idea looks good. Can we see a photo of an entire window or door or room?

Not sure if this picture is helpful at all, but this is basically what my trim is now. I want to 'bulk' up the baseboards and all door and window trim and also make the entryway more 'grand.'

Rather than beefing them up, would you consider replacing them? The bifold door and what I can see of the stairway feels rather arts and crafts and the trim does not.

When you say more "grand", what do you mean? An inspiration photo would help. Thanks.

I was hoping to avoid replacing because all the doors and windows in the house have this trim.i know trim can be ‘layered’ but I guess maybe I haven’t found the right piece yet, although I think I like the last picture best. For the front and back entrances, I was hoping to make more of a statement by adding something like this to the top. https://pin.it/3t25fu1

Could I please see your newel post (the one covered with the black thing) and the front door?

Thanks!

I am attaching pictures of both our front entrance and that of a house exactly like ours (which they updated.) I am also planning on painting the trim Dove White. (not sure on the doors yet.) I am also attaching a couple pictures of our kitchen, which I am in the process of updating (still trying to decide if we should paint the maple (veneer) cabinets since the lowers are not in the best shape. It is crazy how one problem and lead to another and another and another.

oh, also, I am considering changing the newel to something like the last image.

You have beautiful arts and crafts elements in the home.

Notice that the neighbor (if that is it with the black front door) put in flat, simple trim to carry the arts and crafts theme.

I would not spend $ adding to this existing trim. I'd either change it or leave it.

When you say the cabinets are not in good shape....in what way?

There is sun/water damage and some wear and tear. I might try and do a light sand to see if that improves them, but the veneer is pretty thin so I will have to be pretty careful. I already tried restore a finish and wax on some of them but it made matters worse.

Problematic Maple · More Info

Problematic Maple · More Info

Do you know how old they are?

yep, going on 14 years

You can get them painted but will never be the same as a factory painted finish.....a band aid for awhile.

This blogger has a few posts on beefing up trim in her house.

https://www.thriftydecorchick.com/search?q=Beefing+up+trim

@CDR Design, LLC sure I understand the painting issue. I have been researching it now for over a year, and talking with professionals in that industry. I haven't given up complete hope on the maple, but I thought I would solve the trim issue first.

Okay. Is this your neighbors house?

Yes, that is not our house, but our neighbors. I think they did an outstanding job updating. I have seen successful examples of mixing styles, and was hoping to just add a bit to the existing trim as I REALLY don't want to have to replace all of it. I did notice that they just did the main floor in this style and then just painted to trim upstairs. I suppose I could do whatever I want but I really want to make sure I am adding to the house, in case we have to sell in the next year or two.