Our first home and want to start off right.

9 years ago

We love to host and want to make a lasting impression . We would like some ideas for the living room paint and floors. We will be removing the carpet and installing hardwood floors, but we are debating on going with dark hardwood or medium a shade with different tones and textures. Any suggestions? Also, which wall would be best to accent?

Featured Answer

Natalie

9 years ago

last modified: 9 years ago

Hi---it's quite dark in there and although the ceiling is high, the way it is angled seems to darken the space even more---so I recommend dark floors as that will visually raise the roof. Wall color should be light and have a slight warm ash undertone. Pic for color palette/floor inspiration. If you click on 'show room colors' to the right of the photo-it will give you the info needed. Hope this is helpful. Good Luck!
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Comments (11)

PRO
Arianne Bellizaire Interiors
9 years ago
Hi Marco!

What an exciting project to take on! Looks like you've got a good idea of what elements you want to keep versus what you want to replace, and you also seem to know how you want the room to function and flow. Natalie gave you some great ideas and a great inspiration pic. I would recommend stepping back and asking yourself a few questions first, though.

You know that you want the room to have a "wow" factor when entertaining guests since you like to host often, but what other functions will take place in the room on a daily basis? Also, what is your preferred design style? Are you a traditionalist or are you someone who is more modern/contemporary leaning?

The answers to these questions will help you select materials (flooring, mantle, wall color) that are timeless in your eyes and will help you avoid choosing options that are trendy now but may go out of style in the next 3-5 years.

For example, if you are a traditionalist who likes a clean, coastal vibe you'll want floors in a warm honey tone, a neutral wall color (no accent walls) and white linen slipcovered furniture. Do you see how knowing your style drives your decisions?

I can't wait to hear what you decide! Check out the references Natalie mentioned for more inspiration!
Marco Barbosa Zamudio thanked Arianne Bellizaire Interiors
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PRO
Counter Dimensions
9 years ago
Note in the above photo it is minimal. There are a lot of large open windows to let in light and color. Also many recess lights. Although beautiful, this might be hard to achieve in your space. The really dark floors show dust easily. I think I would add more lighting and lighten the walls with a warm grey/greige color. Med/dark tones on the flooring. Light and bright art on the wall with help. Also the new LED bulbs will not have that "golden" glow.
Marco Barbosa Zamudio thanked Counter Dimensions
PRO
User
9 years ago
yes your room is very dark, so to add more light i would recommend you to add lots of mirrors and glass furniture.
also i cant see what is going on on the wall apposite the fireplace, but would suggest you to add wall murals with LED lights (to bring more light) see pic
ceiling fan has to go
Marco Barbosa Zamudio thanked User
PRO
Gray & Walter, Ltd.
9 years ago
Think about your room as a painting, it needs to be a handsome composition that flows harmoniously and is well balanced. Wood floors are great, the finish if dark will blend with most furnishings you have or eventually purchase. Very dark floors will need to be dusted more than medium to dark floors so be aware. Accent walls per se should be avoided unless you have a good reason to create a focus. It is akin to having a gall bladed surgery for the fun of it. Have fun with this and don't stress out!
Marco Barbosa Zamudio thanked Gray & Walter, Ltd.
Marco Barbosa Zamudio
Original Author
9 years ago
Thanks everyone, these are great tips. I agree with the lighting, its dark. What kind of bulbs do guys recommend? Our over-all picture is modern, with colors, to create warmth and inviting room.
Marco Barbosa Zamudio
Original Author
9 years ago
We are thinking of going with 3/4 of the light maple with dark maple accent. What do you think.
groveraxle
9 years ago
I wouldn't mix flooring. Most hardwoods have enough variation on their own. If you mix stains, it's going to look like you picked up some end lots at a bargain and tried to make it work.
groveraxle
9 years ago
Here's what a medium and dark maple might look like. I would look into getting can lights in that room.
bgfuqua
9 years ago
I feel you need light floors and very light walls.
Marco Barbosa Zamudio
Original Author
9 years ago
Your right about mixing shades. Instead we will be doing tiles with a wood finish.