Curves, archways, and circular moulding: designing beyond limits with Milano Flex

From the archways and domed roofs of Greek Cycladic architecture to modern masterpieces like the Guggenheim Museum, curves have captured the imagination of architects and designers for centuries. Their soft, organic forms offer a welcome contrast to rigid geometry — and as contemporary design increasingly embraces fluidity, curves are firmly here to stay. 

Despite its popularity, curved architecture can be challenging to execute, particularly when working with traditionally rigid materials such as timber skirting boards and architraves. Achieving consistent curves often requires complex joinery, multiple precision cuts, and extensive on-site adjustments, all of which increase labour time, cost, and the risk of material failure. Fortunately, there is a solution.

“Milano Flex is a bespoke, flexible moulding designed to effortlessly bend and twist to fit all kinds of curved architectural profiles,” says Natalie Trejos of Paradise Timbers. “The liquid formula moulded to create the profile you want, from embossed architraves to simple skirting boards. Once set, the product is extremely flexible, with no risk of cracking or splintering, eliminating the need for expensive custom joinery or complicated cuts.”

Considering the quality, simplicity, and reliable flexibility of Milano Flex, it’s easy to see why the product is popular with architects and builders alike. 

“Builders love that it saves time on site and arrives ready to paint, with no preparation or treatment required. Before installation, the moulding can be gently warmed in the sun to increase flexibility, then applied directly to the wall like a traditional profile. It also weathers well, and is suitable for both internal and external applications,” Natalie explains.

Milano Flex is available in a variety of profiles and widths to suit your architectural style, with lengths up to 3.6m for large, sweeping curves or building façades. Paradise Timbers is also happy to accommodate requests for pre-bent mouldings to fit arched or port-hole windows, and can create custom templates to your specifications.  

“The opportunity to explore curvature in any capacity, whether it’s internal to match your existing skirting boards or part of an external façade, is exciting for architects and designers. They can let their imagination run wild without worrying about the limitations and rigidity of timber in these applications. Plus, the finish is smooth, without awkward joins or noticeable segments, delivering that elegant, luxury look.”

While many modern designs are embracing curves, heritage home restorations are also incorporating curved takes on traditional features, as designers reimagine decorative period features in a contemporary setting. Adding curves and archways with era-accurate mouldings, or restoring damaged elements with quality replicas, celebrates the beauty of the heritage home while refreshing it for a new generation. With the flexibility, creative freedom, and high-end finish of Milano Flex, there is truly no restriction on what can be achieved in these spaces.

“We have so many orders coming in, and I think that’s because you can mould Milano Flex to suit any architectural style or existing feature,” Natalie says. “Whether it’s a grand residence with sweeping columns or the curved porthole and arched windows often seen in Hamptons-style coastal homes, Milano Flex allows designers to select the right profile and complete the architectural story.”

Learn more about Milano Flex and Paradise Timbers.