What Are Corbels And How Are They Used In Interior Design?
Corbels are both functional and decorative architectural features that don’t always receive a lot of attention, but they can be used to bring character and interest to modern or renovated buildings. Here’s a look at the historical uses of corbels, and how they can be integrated into a contemporary project or a listed building restoration.
What are corbels?
Corbels are a type of wall bracket that might be a structural element of a building, but more often these days they have a purely ornamental function. Historically they were used to provide extra support in buildings where the ceiling meets the roof, or for arches or balconies.
Corbels that have a structural role are usually made of wood or stone, but when used as a decorative interior design feature they can be made of plasterwork. The word ‘corbel’ comes from the Latin word ‘corbellus’, which means raven, and draws a likeness with the beaked shape.
The historical use of corbels
Examples of corbels can be found in mediaeval architecture, particularly that of the Gothic or Romanesque style. Sometimes the corbels are plain and functional, but as they are a highly visible element of the structure, they were often carved to add interest and reinforce the style of the architecture.
In mediaeval European architecture, there are many examples of corbels carved into intricate animal forms, human heads, or mythological creatures. Later examples were carved to represent foliage or scrolls of paper. In interior design, corbels can often be found supporting the mantlepiece of grand fireplaces, and under parapets and shelving.
Later uses of corbels
As building methods advanced, there was less need to use corbels as a load-bearing feature, but they were often retained to add interest and complement the architectural style of the building. Decorative corbels were often made of a type of fibrous plaster that is easy to carve and create fine details.
Corbels can form part of a decorative plasterwork ceiling to define the transition between walls and ceiling, and examples can frequently be found in formal buildings from the Victorian and Edwardian era. They can also be used to frame a doorway or entrance to add a sense of grandeur, particularly in larger properties.
The exterior of buildings from this era often have balconies or porticos that incorporate corbels. The intricate designs of historical corbels can often become worn and damaged with time and environmental pollutants, and restoring them properly requires specialist techniques.
The use of corbels in modern architecture
Corbels are still frequently used as an ornamental and sometimes structural element in modern architecture, particularly under mantle pieces and shelving. They can be made of traditional materials such as plaster, stone or wood, or from a composite material..
If you wish to enhance an interior design project with a corbel, choose a size that is appropriate for the space and will not overwhelm it or be too small to have any impact. The material and style of the corbel should work in harmony with the rest of the features.