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Paneling everywhere

I just purchased this converted rural schoolhouse this summer. It has the original brick and flooring in the main room.

However, it has been added onto by the previous owners who put in a lot of paneling. Paneled walls are not easy to decorate and do not suit my style. They make the rooms unnecessarily dark.

The living room opens to a beautiful sun porch, which also has wood paneling!

I need a fix for all this wood. I'd like to bring in light and airiness. Please help me change the look of this room so it expresses who I am!

Design by Steinhafels

Designer Anne Hildreth

I would start by putting a coat of paint on the interior space. The furniture that is currently in there is light in color with a coat of paint and hanging a few pieces of art with some color will brighten up the space and create some style. With the flooring I would also suggest a rug. It's the fifth wall of the room that has an opportunity for you to add color and style to your space.

When selecting the paint I would do it an off white with a gray undertone to it. This will not only brighten up your room but give an updated look to the space. Using mirrors to reflect the light from the window and the screened in porch is another way to make the room feel larger as well. I would not be concerned about drilling a hole in the wall to hang art or using a nail this will help warm up the room and give it the style that you are looking for. When selecting art and rugs for this space I chose to do some rustic pieces with a some traditional elements to play off the skirted sofa and tufted chair. A nice touch in every room is to have some greenery. Using a tree or a vase with some sticks and florals are great ways to bring some softness in from all the wood on the walls.

Paneling doesn't fit this homeowner's style.
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