When you’re installing picture frame molding, I highly recommend planning your pattern in such a way that you avoid running into any switches or outlets. However, in some spaces there is just no possible way to avoid a run-in with your molding. And as I’ve just encountered this very scenario while installing the picture frame molding in my daughter’s bathroom, I thought I would share a few different ideas/options for tackling this very situation. There’s more than one way to install molding around a light switch or outlet, and I believe the “right way” is really just a matter of preference.
In my daughter’s bathroom, this one little wall holds both the light switch and the outlet. Both of which, as you can see below, were in the direct path of my molding.
If you’ve been following the progress of this project over on Instagram, you know that I considered a few different options here before making a final decision. Some suggested that I swap the triple light switch for a double, which would potentially allow for a slightly smaller box that could fit between the outlet and the switch. But I really like the functionality that this triple switch provides in this space, so I opted to keep things as is and install the molding around the switch and outlet.
As I’ve already mentioned, there are few different ways this can be done. So, let’s dive into the options.
Option 1 – Using straight cuts, let the molding butt up directly against the switch plate.
From a DIY perspective, this is the easiest way to deal with this scenario. And in a room, like a bedroom or dining room, where outlets are below eye level and often hidden by furniture, I think this is a great, simple, straightforward way to handle this situation. However, for light switches and/or outlets that have a bit more visual presence in a space, I think this could feel a bit unfinished.
Option 2 – With a few mitered cuts, install the molding around the switch/outlet.
This is a bit more of a complicated approach from a DIY perspective with all of the mitered cuts needed. However, depending on your eye this could feel more finished than option one. Although, I think some might find this a little more visually distracting as it does change the shape of the box and highlights the outlet/switch.
Option 3 – Frame out the switch/outlet with trim.
The idea here is similar to option 1. However, first you would use your trim to create a frame around the switch plate/outlet cover, and then you would use straight cuts to butt the molding up to the frame. This is a fairly straightforward way to deal with this situation from a DIY perspective, and it feels more finished than option one (at least it does to my eye). It does draw attention to the switch, but I think it does it in a more visually pleasing way than with option 2.
And this is exactly what I chose to do in my girl’s bathroom, and I’m very pleased with the result!
It really comes down to personal preference. Considering the size of this wall and the location of the switch and outlet, this is what felt right for this space. I feel like it looks intentional and finished. And I’m sure caulk and paint will do wonders! I can’t wait to wrap up this project!
But, I’m curious. Which option do you like best? How would you have handled this situation?
You chose wisely. Looks beautiful