When it comes to designing a beautiful, cohesive home, it’s often the small, overlooked details that make the biggest impact- and air returns and vents are no exception. If you’ve ever found yourself frustrated by bulky, builder-grade vent covers that interrupt your carefully curated spaces, you’re not alone. I get quite a few questions about this odd topic. Thankfully, there are a few beautiful options and designer-recommended air return covers that blend seamlessly into your home, rather than fighting against it. In today’s post, I’m sharing everything you need to know about decorative air returns, how to upgrade unsightly air vent covers, and a few tips for finding (or DIY-ing) options that feel timeless and intentional. Let’s dive in!
In our most recent renovation (the entryway, staircase, & hall reveal), we had multiple returns and vents to deal with. One of the most challenging was a floor vent situated against our beautiful entryway tile. I landed on an interesting solution and shared it here: how to faux paint a vent cover to seamlessly blend with stone. After sharing that post, I received quite a few questions on what type of vent covers everyone should be searching for, in the first place? That’s a valid question…
Why Upgrade Your Air Returns and Vents?
Most standard air return covers are functional- but far from attractive. They’re often made from inexpensive plastic or metal, and they tend to yellow, dent, or look dated over time. Swapping your builder-grade vents for modern decorative air returns instantly elevates a room without adding a major expense. It’s a simple, budget-friendly upgrade that makes a surprising difference in how finished your home feels. A few reasons you might want to upgrade?
- Enhance the overall aesthetic of your room — cohesive finishes and clean lines make a space feel more polished.
- Improve durability — many designer air returns are made from heavy-duty materials that last longer.
- Boost resale value — thoughtful upgrades signal a higher-end, custom home to potential buyers.
Best Decorative Air Returns for a Designer Look
When shopping for decorative air vents and returns, it’s important to consider style, material, and function. Here are a few of my favorite options…
Metal Grilles
Powder-coated aluminum, antique brass, or polished nickel decorative grilles offer a sleek, clean look that works beautifully with traditional, transitional, or modern interiors.
Wooden Air Return Covers
For a warm, organic feel, wood vent covers are a fantastic option- especially if you’re aiming for a traditional, coastal, or craftsman style home. You can also stain or paint them to match your flooring or trim work for a seamless look.
Laser-Cut Designs
Laser-cut metal air return covers allow for intricate, designer patterns- perfect if you want a subtle, architectural statement. I’m partial to choosing patterns like lattice or geometric motifs, which feel both timeless and unique to your home. We landed on the this option… pictured above, before paint.
Flush-Mount Vents
For the ultimate low-profile vent solution, flush-mount air returns blend directly into your floors, walls, or ceilings. These are ideal for new builds or major remodels and look incredibly polished and custom.
How to Choose the Right Decorative Air Return
Choosing the right air return grille comes down to a few considerations. Here are some things I think about when choosing these…
- Size & Airflow: Always check the size of your existing vent opening and ensure the new cover won’t block airflow.
- Material Durability: For high-traffic areas, metal or heavy-duty wood covers are best.
- Finish Match: Match the finish to your hardware, cabinetry color, flooring, or trim for a cohesive, designer look.
- Easy Maintenance: Make sure it’s easy to remove and clean (especially important for return air vents that pull in dust).
Where to Shop for Designer Air Vents & Returns
Here are a few of my go-to sources for modern vent covers and decorative air returns. Most of these offer customization in size, material, or finish…
- Reggio Register — Known for high-quality, architectural vent grilles.
- Fittes — Offers ultra-minimal flush-mount and hidden vent solutions.
- Signature Hardware — Great traditional and craftsman-style options.
- Rejuvenation — For high-end, designer options in timeless finishes.
- Pacific Register — For truly one-of-a-kind designs tailored to your home.
DIY: How to Hide Air Returns in Style
If you’re feeling creative (and want to save room in the budget for other upgrades), it’s possible to DIY a decorative air return cover. Here’s a simple and fun idea… faux painting. I shared my tutorial here: how to faux paint a vent cover to seamlessly blend with stone. It’s inexpensive and an easy fix.
FAQ
Yes! Many companies offer custom air return covers in different sizes, patterns, and finishes to suit your home’s style. If you’re tackling a unique renovation project or have non-standard vent sizes, a custom piece might be the perfect solution.
Absolutely! Decorative vent covers are designed to maintain airflow while improving aesthetics. Look for options that specifically mention maintaining proper air circulation, especially for return vents, which play an important role in your HVAC system.
Yes! Most air return covers are easy to replace. You’ll just want to measure your existing vent opening carefully before ordering a new one. Many air returns are made in standard sizes for a quick swap, but some can be custom ordered for a perfect fit.
Related
Looking for more posts on those finishing details throughout your home? I’m going to link some of my favorites for you below…
- Designer Tips for Making Outlets & Light Switch Plates Look Better
- Why an Exhaust Fan & Light Combo Is the Best Choice for Bathroom Renovations
- The Top Black Paint Colors Designers Always Use
- How to Measure, Select, and Install Interior Door Hardware (A Step-by-Step Guide)
- Designer Light Fixtures That Will Never Go Out of Style
- Cabinetry Hardware Placement Guide (With Easy Examples)
- How to Choose a Clip On Sconce or Chandelier Shade
- 24 of My Favorite Neutral (Non-White) Paint Colors
- Common Home Decor Mistakes That Make Your Home Look Dated- And How to Fix Them
- How to Install a Stair Runner with an Easy Staircase Landing
Upgrading your decorative air returns is one of those design moves that often gets overlooked- but it’s one that can really impact the way your home feels. I hope this post was helpful if you’re on the hunt for these! Feel free to leave any questions for me in the comment section below- I’m happy to help. Here’s to a great weekend ahead!
The post The Best Decorative Air Returns and Vents for a Designer Look appeared first on Room For Tuesday.