What is the niche?
The term “niche” originates from French and translates to “to make a home.” The niche is an original architectural feature that has the appearance of a cradle or sacred spot. It has an arched design with a half-domed-shaped shell. They are located in homes in the Eastern culture and also in the churches and other sacred structures in which items of worship are usually placed in.
Naturally, niches have been well-known interior decoration since the earliest times. Niches were popular in Gothic architecture in a religious manner. The use of them was to show statues as well as urns and vases in the classical interiors. Niches were also utilized in stucco- and adobe-walled homes of Mission or Spanish Colonial styles. Nowadays, you can find niches that are prefabricated in a wide variety of styles. You are sure to find one perfect for your house.
Where Do You Need To Place Your Particularization
A niche is best displayed on walls that are proportionally large. For instance, a tiny niche could appear a bit lost when placed on a vast, flat wall. Niches are great as accents in hallways and staircase landings. Utilize niches to store beautiful night lighting. Showcase a unique artwork that you like. Make use of a single niche in a space of a smaller size to make it appear more intimate. Alternatively, the two niches could be used embellished in a bigger size. Set one on the opposite side of a passageway for a stunning arrangement. It helps define an intimate space in an expansive space with niches.
Buying an online niche
Traditionally, they are made of stones, wood or niches of today are typically constructed of polyurethane foam or Gypsum. They are made for DIY installation and are usually already finished in white but could be painted. One-piece designs are simple to put up and require no additional trim. Standard depth niches fit into 2×4 walls. Some niches feature an even deeper recess. Some niches can also be found in a surface-mounted version that does not require holes to install.
Setting up the Niche
Materials and tools that you’ll need prior to starting installation. These Included are:
Clean cloth or sponge
Caulking gun
Brown craft paper, also known as butcher paper
Level
Keyhole saw or drywall knife
Circular saw, also known as carpenter’s saw
Mineral spirits
2×4 lumber
1×2 1, 1×3, 1×4, or wood
Elastomeric adhesive caulk
Construction adhesives made of polyurethane
Bright box or bright common framing nails
Shims
Before Installation. Make sure you’re compliant with all local building codes. Your responsibility is to be able to conform to all code specifications. The next step is to clean the surfaces that are free of dirt and floating particles using a dry sponge or cloth. Be sure the surfaces are clean before installing your niche. Do not nail the niche made of fiberglass. Nailing can cause damage to the surface. It is recommended that you finish your item prior to installing it with high-quality latex, oil-based paint or faux-finish. You can retouch areas that require it after it has been put in.
For Flush Wall Mount Installation. Install it on your wall. Mark the position. Place a 1/2-inch continuous bead of adhesive on all edges of the side of the niche. Be sure the niche you are using is even prior to you putting it in place. Then, apply caulk or adhesive around any edges that are visible to your target. Clean it with a moist cloth. Make sure you finish your project by using premium painting oil or latex. Enjoy!
Wall Cut-out Installation Wall Preparation. Create a template by placing your niche over craft paper with the right side facing up. Trace all around the edge of the niche, which touches the paper. Adjust the template line to make it adjust to the curvature width of the niche. Cut the template.
Since most niches won’t be able to fit within 16″ on center studs, it is recommended to attach the niche on a different stud if you can. Attach the template to the wall, and then trace it. Be sure the template is in line with the walls.
Make the opening smaller using the help of a saw or drywall knife. Take out the drywall as well as any studs which need to be removed too.
Utilizing 2x4s, frame the area using cross braces on the top and bottom, along with vertical braces on either side.
Insert the niche in the wall cutout to examine the hole to make certain it is perfectly level. Be sure that the niche is equal from left to right and from front to back. It is essential that the niche shelves be straight both front and rear, or they could slide back from your wall. It is possible to cut the lower edge of the opening in order to bring the niche to a level or apply shims to level the back of the shelf.
General Installation. First, determine the dimensions of the sidewall at the side of the niche. Then, cut seven parts of 1×2″ or 1×3″ or 1×4″ lumber into six” lengths. Utilizing the construction adhesive, fix the blocks of lumber into the niche in a well. Spread them evenly across the niche. Make sure that they’re in line with the edge of the side wall. The adhesive should be set entirely before you can proceed. Many manufacturers recommend that you let it set for a minimum of 24 hours.
Apply a large amount of construction adhesive on the blocks of lumber. The niche should be placed into the opening in the wall, making sure that it’s level before pressing it into the wall. Smooth any excess adhesive around the edges of the niche with the use of a knife. Remove any adhesive that is left behind with mineral spirits. Complete or finish your area with high-end painting oil or latex.
Always adhere to good construction techniques when working on any DIY project. If you are using power tools, ensure you follow the instructions of the manufacturer. This is the case for adhesives and finishing materials too. Wear safety goggles whenever using power tools. Make sure to use the correct tool to do the job.
Once your niche is set up, showcase your work using any of the suggestions below. The niches are prefinished in white. However, you can customize the color to fit your personal style. Made of polyurethane foam as a single piece, search for an accent piece that will add style to your home. You’re sure to discover one that appeals to you.