In the quest to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home, decorative corbels play an integral role. These architectural details, traditionally used for structural support, have now become a symbol of elegance, providing a touch of classical sophistication to any interior. Whether you're a homeowner aiming to add a decorative flair to your kitchen cabinets, bookshelves, or fireplace mantels, or a designer on the lookout for unique elements to incorporate into a project, there's a plethora of places where you can buy these exquisite pieces. Let's explore some of the top spots where you can find and purchase decorative corbels today.
1. Online Retail Giants
- Amazon: With its extensive marketplace, Amazon offers a range of decorative corbels, from handcrafted wooden designs to more contemporary metal and plastic options. The platform provides customer reviews, allowing you to gauge product quality and satisfaction before purchasing.
- eBay: Here, you'll find both new and vintage corbels. eBay is ideal for those seeking something unique or collectors who prefer antique pieces. Auctions can lead to finding rare items at competitive prices.
- Wayfair: Specializing in home furnishings and decor, Wayfair often has a selection of corbels that vary in style, material, and price, catering to a wide array of tastes and budgets.
✨ Note: Online retail giants often offer international shipping, so you can find decorative corbels even if you're not in the U.S.
2. Specialty Hardware Stores
Local hardware stores, especially those with a focus on home decor, can be treasure troves for finding decorative corbels. These stores might carry stock or can order custom pieces:
- Home Depot
- Lowes
- Local boutique hardware shops
These outlets often have specialists on staff who can provide insights into installation, matching corbels with your home’s existing decor, and even offer bespoke designs if available.
3. Artisanal Workshops
Artisans and craftspeople bring a level of uniqueness and craftsmanship to the table that mass-produced items can't match. Here's where to look:
- Etsy: A hub for handmade and vintage items, Etsy features artisans from all over the world selling custom-made corbels that reflect various architectural styles.
- Local craft fairs and markets: Visiting these events in your area can lead to discovering local talent with corbels that you won't find anywhere else.
- Direct from artists' studios: Some artists have their own websites or social media where they showcase and sell their work directly.
🌟 Note: Buying directly from artisans supports small businesses and often comes with the option for custom work or customization to fit your needs precisely.
4. Reclaimed and Vintage Stores
For those seeking a piece of history, reclaimed and vintage stores are ideal:
- These shops specialize in salvaged architectural elements, often offering corbels from old buildings, churches, or estates.
- Look for well-established businesses with a reputation for authenticity to ensure you're getting genuine pieces with character.
| Store Type | Benefits | Drawbacks |
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| Reclaimed Stores |
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5. Decorative Moulding Companies
Companies that specialize in decorative mouldings offer corbels as part of their broader product line. These businesses cater to both professionals and homeowners:
- Focal Point Architectural Products: Known for their extensive catalog, offering everything from simple to ornate corbels.
- Bellaterra Home: Often features collections that are rich in traditional and vintage aesthetics.
- Graber Ornamental: Offers a vast range of decorative elements, including custom orders for corbels.
Such companies frequently provide CAD drawings, installation instructions, and even samples to help visualize the finished look in your home.
When shopping for decorative corbels, consider several factors. Ensure the material and style align with your home's existing decor or the vision you're pursuing. Remember that installation can require different skills depending on the corbel's size and weight. Also, consider the financial aspect, balancing between buying new, custom, or reclaimed pieces for authenticity or savings.
Choosing decorative corbels is about enhancing your home's architectural story. From online retail giants offering convenience and variety to artisan workshops providing handcrafted uniqueness, each source has its own allure. Vintage stores allow you to own a piece of history, while specialized decorative moulding companies offer custom solutions for a seamless fit into your home's aesthetic. Whether you're drawn to traditional, ornate details or a more modern interpretation, the right place to purchase your corbels depends on your design vision, budget, and commitment to craftsmanship or authenticity.
What is a corbel?
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A corbel is a structural or decorative element that projects from a wall to carry or support weight. In modern homes, they are mainly used for decoration, adding an architectural detail to various interior elements like cabinets, shelves, and mantels.
Can corbels be used for structural support?
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Originally, yes, corbels were used for structural support in construction. However, in contemporary interior design, decorative corbels are rarely load-bearing and serve aesthetic purposes. Ensure to check with a professional if you’re considering using them for actual support.
What materials are decorative corbels made from?
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Decorative corbels come in various materials including wood, metal, plastic, plaster, and even stone or polyurethane to mimic historical styles. The choice of material often depends on the desired look, weight, and compatibility with the environment where they will be installed.
