Renovations at the Oak House-The Family Room

We finally painted the family room a couple of months ago.  This was one room that really did not set right with me.  I know some people are really against painting wood.  Ever.  But I think that if you can't update it, you need to paint it.   

In defense of this particular paneling, I loved the bones of it.  I also think it would have looked awesome restained in a more modern wood tone like a gray wash or darker wood tone.  I also think it would have looked awesome in a deep navy or medium or light gray.  The possibilities are endless.  I am, however, a lover of the light. This room faces somewhat north, and gets its most direct light in the afternoon and evening.  So with that in mind, I wanted to keep it light and bright, so that no matter the time of day, it feels happy.  

When the room was being painted, the windows and doors were saved for last.  So I had the contrast of the wood tone against the white paint.  I remembered photos I had saved of dark colored window and doors and was inspired to go dark for them both. So glad that happened because the 'big white box' needed a bit of contrast. It also tied into the TV!

BEFORE

PROGRESS/AFTER

I'm not the biggest fan of this rug, and I plan to add artwork and drapes, but the transformative power of paint never disappoints.  The goal was to take this room from dark and dated to light and bright, and I think it was mission accomplished!