When painting a room, people often wonder what to do with the crown molding. Leave it natural? Paint it the same color as the wall? A different color? Paint it to match the ceiling?

First, if the molding has never been painted and has nice detailing, consider staining it or leaving it in a natural state.

If the molding has been painted -- and it's not worth the effort to strip the paint off -- here are some guidelines. White and light colored ceilings help create a sense of openness. If you paint the molding the same color as the ceiling (with a different colored wall), you will "put a lid" on the room.

Instead:

• Match the molding to a bold color in furniture, an oriental rug or window treatments. This will draw attention to the molding and blend the room together.

• Use the same color for the crown molding, window trim and baseboards

• Add contrast with a molding color that is two shades darker or lighter than the wall

• Make sure the color is in the same color range and tone as the wall and ceiling

• Be careful of using too many colors in one room.