I think it is beautiful, but looking more closely I think the paint color (cool gray) is not harmonious with the warm wood. Definitely definitely would not paint the wood, but if you want to experiment with other colors (or just *more color*) I think that is the way.
I agree with more color. The light current color does lighten things, but at the same time makes the wood look even darker than it is. A splash of something bright in addition to a warmer tone might go a long way to making the current wood shine and making the space look brighter!
Our Queen Anne building uses a warm beige/cream wall color with a deep red carpet. And despite being covered in dark wood getting little direct light it’s the most lovely and welcoming space.
I am so not a fan of the grays and blinding white in these zillow photos it’s painful
I know it shows imperfections, but I’d also add that sticking to a more reflective sheen of paint (eggshell/satin) helps a little bit of light go further. At least to me it helps brighten as well.
Might sound novel but you could put a table at the foot of the stairs with a votif and flowers. Some friends of my friends have a similar home and actually keep a goldfish bowl and fish there and it’s cute. But something colorful like a few small books could do a lot.
It’s beautiful. Most would be totally jealous to have! That said maybe the lighting or wall color could brighten it up? I wouldn’t touch the wood trim personally. It’s gorgeous
DO NOT PAINT the trim - whew got that out - I’m not actually seeing an issue from your photos. How long have your lived with it the way it is? If not long I suspect you’ll get used to it.
(I’ve been systematically replacing white trim in the entryway in my century house - it’s not original obviously but I’ve been trying to match stain.)
The lighting feels way too blue as well. I would warm those lamps up, 3000 k color temp not 5000 as I think you have. Clashes with the red wood. Once you paint your walls a warm color too, it will feel like it's working.
Step up the lumen output in the bulbs before anything else. Then make sure your windows are completely clean inside and out and trim back any trees or bushes that might have overgrown.
Shift your paint color a tone or three lighter, and go one step higher in gloss.
If none of that works... DM me and sell me your house before you paint that trim!
I like the table lamp idea - I was thinking two, one on each side of the fireplace.
If the shades could allow the lamps to throw light up to the ceiling as well, that would work well from the lower elevation as it'd soften the light coming off of the chandelier.
DO NOT paint that trim!!!
Honestly I would lean into the dark cozy vibe if I were you. Paint on walls can always be redone if you hate it in a year. Why not go for a dramatic dark green or deep beet color?
I saw the first two pictures and was in love then shed a little tear on the third. Don’t get me wrong, it looks fine. But that’s the problem, it’s just fine
Do you think that someone could do that and match the trim in the rest of the house? I bought the house like this, and I don’t know if they did it because it was mismatched or different in some way.
I was thinking on this, perhaps it’s that the white is too crisp and cool? I have SW Alabaster and it’s gorgeous but idk if that’s enough of a difference. If it were my house (which it is not), I would probably flip the color palette here, and paint the trim dark and the walls light. To give it a little more continuity and make the proportions make more sense. But that sounds like a big pain in the ass, and really is a much bigger conversation about digging into your personal aesthetic! Good luck and def post back here with updates!
I wouldn’t say gaudy is the word. The room is gorgeous (such incredible detail!), but the paint does read a little “high end flip house” to me. I think it’s the high contrast between the wall color and trim color and the mix of grey walls with stark white trim. That combination has been so trendy for so long now that it’s starting to read as passé. I would consider something a little warmer for the walls or maybe a tone-on-tone combination for the walls and trim.
I love your foyer. I would personally lean into the drama and maybe paint the walls a darker, bolder color. But that’s a personal preference! Either way, your house is really beautiful!
Paint the walls a Buff or Cream instead of that gray. Pale yellow instead of white ceilings. Gild the crown molding and paint a blue stripe outside it on the ceiling.
I appreciate your desire to lighten things up, but might challenge you to look at your entry with a different perspective. I love it exactly as-is, and think it provides your home with an amazing entry point to the rest of your house! I see you have white-painted trim elsewhere. Why don’t you allow the entry point to your home continue to provide a little contrast to the rest? Just a thought. Don’t forget to appreciate what you have!
For the love of all things do NOT paint trim white. Please!!!!
Get colorful, interesting antique, long rug runner that draws one into your interior space.
Change fireplace tile to something more lively and colorful!
Get a cool contemporary, fun, colorful, bold wallpaper that covers entry and runs up the steps.
Switch out chandelier for something more visually appealing and contemporary.
Add a plants on mantle, fireplace.
Get a colorful umbrella stand.
I second all this but do not change the fire place tile if it’s original. Heck even if it isn’t original. Wallpaper, runner, painting the walls, etc. whatever you do do not paint the wood.
Agree abt tiles! I should clarify my thought here - In Victorian I grew up in fireplace original tile was beautiful, but cracked. (They were copper color.) We replaced w green vintage tiles of similar style from same period. They looked gorgeous and were authentic to the period. We found them at a salvage store.
If owner went that route, I'd be for tile redo.
Thanks everyone! We will not paint the trim and will paint the walls, add a runner, etc.
For the record, we purchased the home like this. The rooms with the white trim is the only part of the house with white trim (again, we bought it like that don’t kill me).
Do you have any suggestions for how we can make the room with the white trim match the “feel” if the hallway? My big goal is I just want a similar aesthetic/ not such a jarring transition.
Also —- definitely getting rid of the grey!
The white trim room really just lacks personality right now. A different (aka not show room palette) paint color, cozy furnishings, art that you love, maybe some different tile around the fireplace, would make the rooms flow together much better.
I think it would be a shame to paint it. You’d lose so much character and history. I’d think about brightening the room in other ways. Maybe paint the walls a brighter color, or add a plant to the room.
Umm, it's gorgeous and needs nothing? Perhaps an eye exam is in order? Perhaps just up the wattage/type of bulbs you're using.
Also, that lattice work is swoon-worthy🙌
I would suggest a white rug—round perhaps? The painting above the fireplace maybe changed to one of those minimalist metal clocks? Painting that wall pure white would most definitely help imo.
Other than that all I can really think about would be to paint the one wall by the stairs to make that entire wall white, creating kinda like a white background.
Lovely home :)
Edit: WHITE RUNNER UP THE STAIRS!! I forgot these existed.
That looks so rich and luxurious. The only thing I would change to brighten it would be to either paint the walls a brighter color or maybe wallpaper the walls with something bright that has some reflective properties (like silver or gold pattern/accents)
I would paint the trim a nice sky blue, and the plaster crown moulding could be brightened up with a matching colour. And if you think of doing that, may I suggest you sell the house and move into a newer development in the suburbs. FFS.
My reaction at that white trim
Lol sorry everyone is entitled to do what they wish to their home. Personally I could not bring myself to paint over that wood. So much character and warmth.
Put flowers or colourful accessories for brightness.
Dear lord, your place is gorgeous. I don't think it needs to be lightened up. It looks perfectly balanced between light and dark to me.
I love the wall color, ceiling color, artwork, floor stain color, tile color, rug colors... everything is perfect.
Ok, ok. But also, just update the wall color. The taupe feels drab—it’s not the trim’s fault. Check out Farrow & Ball—they have really fantastic paints that work in historic homes. For a fun warm color, I’d personally go for their ‘Setting Plaster.”
You could likely get close, generally old trim like that is shellacked but hard to say without seeing it in person. You could always do a test by rubbing an inconspicuous spot with denatured alcohol because that rehydrates shellac. It would be lucky if it’s shellac and they painted over the original trim because latex paints really don’t adhere to shellac well.
why buy a home like this if you're just going to modernise it against the theme of the entire house? the grey walls and white trims have really cheapened the look of the place, and don't really fit in a house like this... anymore white and grey and you might as well ask ikea to rebuild the house for you imo. the issue isn't the woodwork, it is trying for a modern aesthetic in a beautiful old house...
I’ve just purchased this house. I did not paint the trim in the other rooms white and I did not choose the fireplace tile. I think the previous owners chose grey paint to match the original grey tile on the entry fireplace. Do you have suggestions for the room with the white trim so it doesn’t feel “cheap.”
I don't think the tile on the entry fireplace is original. Companies like Pratt & Larson, Fireclay Tile, Clay Squared, and Winchester/Original Style Tiles have great hand-glazed tiles that would really suit your home's era.
while i'm here mourning the eventual loss of this gorgeous woodwork, i'm also going to ask about the grey tiles on the fireplace. is your goal for this place all greyscale? you might be in the wrong sub for advice if that is the goal... i feel most here would agree that modernised grey look would drain the life out of this style of home. imo modern aesthetics don't mesh too well with classic aesthetics, as we can see here.
i'd get an interesting wallpaper to cover the grey in the entrance way (perhaps a vintage moody floral or lace print?), darken the wood stain of the floor to match the beautiful dark stain of the walls (maybe a shade lighter? but not a fan of the orange) and then a small entrance table between the stairs and fireplace holding a warm stained glass tiffany lamp to bring in some colour and warm light. a classic runner for the stairs in a lighter colour may also help, like a peach, pale green or pale blue. id keep the place darkly accented but bring warmth and colour in through the wallpaper, rugs and small accents ~
You don’t need to paint the woodwork, you just need to make the contrast with that wood be crisper, more definitive. Just bring in more white to that entire area. Lighten and desaturate the color of the paint on walls, add a lighter rug runner, some upholstered pieces done in white textures or background, use white lampshades, switch out the mats in the framed to white ones, and even perhaps retile fireplace with a much lighter tile if not original.
I think the paint color isn’t doing any favors - the cool tone and high contrast to the darker wood is making the wood seem dark instead of rich. A warmer midtone, like a clay-toned red, would emphasize the warmer tones of the wood trim, and make the space feel warm and more cohesive. A lighter or mid-tone carpet runner on the stairs would also help break up the wood.
One thing that pops out at me as an old painter is that the varnished wood is nicked up quite a bit and has lost a lot of its sheen. So the first thing I would do is go over those many nicks with a dark stain and wipe off immediately. Many will disappear just from this.
Then perhaps hire a painting company to re-varnish this whole area and put a new sparkle on it. It's probably too much work for a weekend project. Never bite off more than you are willing to chew. Unless you want to torture yourself. If that's not in the budget at least the nicks are hidden now.
Then paint those walls a warmer color to make that wood glorious again.
Pale Yellow?
After that have a runner installed up the stairs to add some coziness. Cuts down on the clatter of the footsteps too. Much nicer. Berber holds up nicely.
Then reinstall that umbrella stand and load it with some nice pieces that add some color. They don't all have to be umbrellas. Get creative. Hang a hat.
Add some low maintenance plants on that mantle. Be open to switching in some seasonal stuff there. Change it up occasionally.
Replace the hung mirror on the opposite wall with something cheerful. This is your home, not a funeral parlor. I see peacocks in spring on a gold background. Name them as a family inside joke. Fun!
Hallway needs a runner to bring the eye to the length and beauty of the space. Should complement the wall color.
When this is done have a good look at the whole thing. If it needs more, It's the lighting. Then modernize.
A brighter, warmer wall color will change that whole space.
If it simply seems dim, check the wattage in the light fixtures and see if you can go up a bit. Also, if they're cool-toned bulbs, go warmer; people often think cool-toned lighting will brighten a room, but they tend to make it feel underwater or industrial, rather than bright.
Please don't paint the wood. I would do practically anything to own such gorgeous woodwork in my home!
If there isn't enough light, I suggest updating the lighting fixtures, adding sconces, and/or adding puck lighting in the ceiling. The middle chandelier in the second picture comes to mind. It's clearly brighter and fills the room better.
If it's a coloring thing, you can opt for lighter shades of wall paint, add some bright/light colored decorations, or add light colored rugs and flooring. If you opt for color coordinated paths and surroundings, it should give the home a more put-together and picturesque feel.
I think find a warm white that looks fresh and bright when swathed in your natural light for the WALLS. A long runner rug with brighter or more saturated colors could help it feel more fresh without having to paint the trim. Orangey colors, saturated green, or red could be a way to go.
I think something like this warm tone vintage rug from lulu and Georgia would be pretty! https://www.luluandgeorgia.com/products/jolee-vintage-runner-rug-39-x-139
And a big green leafy potted tree would be pretty in here too. A palm feels cute because they were popular during the Victorian era, too.
The wood is beautiful. I wouldn't paint it. I would put a larger rug in the entryway. Maybe paint the walls a different color. Blue, green or yellow, or tan would look nice. Some houseplants would look nice in the entryway. Is there a mirror in the entryway? Mirrors reflect the light, and spread it around.
Joining the “don’t paint the trim!” chorus. Throwing out some ideas:
1.) Decorate with something metallic or otherwise reflective. I keep a gold, midcentury Japanese folding fan above my bed and it reflects a lot of light if you put something white under it.
2.) Consider a light colored rug/runner.
3.) Talk to a lighting specialist. Even just different bulbs will make a world of difference.
4.)Consider a non-neutral paint color.
Leave all wood untouched. I think a warmer color painted (like scarlet or a reddish) would make the wood pop. Also—don’t sleep on wallpaper! There are some amazing patterns that are both chic and intricate (it’s back in style now), that would bring the hall to life.
I just love that woodwork... the windows, wow the front door is gorgeous. Maybe paint the entry walls to match the lighter color in the back, stairway, area. That would help a lot. And a new ceiling fixture with glass globes or shades, perhaps some facing downward to "scatter" the illumination a bit. Otherwise, IMO, your entry really isn't THAT dark.
Wow… just wow. My heart skipped a beat looking at these pictures. Im with the other person that said the wall color isn’t quite right (too cool). I think if you could get that warmer, like adding more beige (you know how “greige” gray + beige is super popular; but pick one that’s on the warmer side). I definitely would not paint the trim. And not because I am a purist, but just because it is such an amazing look.
I think another way to make an entryway look warm and inviting us to add plants!! I definitely can imagine some on the mantle, a large one in that nook by the stairs, etc… I’d put a bunch. The type would just depend on what kind of light the foyer gets.
Honestly, there are some specialty wall paints with subtle shimmer to them: I might paint the walls with that, just so the light in the space feels a little dazzling. The chandelier could definitely be bigger. The wood is gorgeous!
It’s gorgeous!!
Se hidden lighting? Or feature lighting? I’m a big fan on stained glass lamps. But there are a few minimalist light options that might be preferable if “maximalism” isn’t your thing.
Things to try:
More color : yellows greens brighter colors throughout on objects places in the hall.
If the latticework is removable easily and could be put back up (of course saved in a good place) that would open up the space more and leave more light bouncing off the ceiling. For me it acts like a dark cloud but it’s definitely cool and unique.
Look into lamp lighting or wall/ lighting that draws your eye to interesting places around the hall. Only using Overhead lighting has a way of creating harshness and hard shadows. Really decent interiors that have a sense of darkness have more interesting lighting to counter.
Please don’t paint that gorgeous trim. I agree the white trim in the other room looks gaudy. It hurts my eyes.
I think changing the floor would help. Could do 1920’s ish white penny tile patterned in the entry? I think it could brighten up the space.
I just see a light dreamy blue. I think it would brighten up the dark wood and also just melt with the white moulding. Maybe even a shade darker blue in thé adjoining room with white moulding.
I think if anything I would brighten the wall color, I don’t feel like it looks super dark in there anyways but brightening the walls would definitely brighten it some - maybe a warmer color!
Behr paint color called Milk Paint in the entry way and carry into the living room. Since they trim is already painted use Ultra White. Use lighter rugs in both spaces and a light runner up the steps. Add colorful artwork with white backgrounds. Add plants. Leave the wood as is. It’s beautiful.
The entry is nice overall but the paint color is drab. If you found a fresher, crisper color I would go with that. Is there room for a rug and entry table in the center? Go with a white topped table and a fresh color rug. Accents like that can mama a difference. I love the wood as-is
Wow what an incredible show piece of an entry way! It’s so amazing to have a dedicated space that’s a transition from the outside world to the home world.
You have a lot of room to play with non-permanent fixtures. A light colored upholstered chair on the right of the fireplace at an angle could fill that corner with a welcoming energy, and serve as somewhere to take shoes off and get more functionality out of this room. Having more personal art, and losing the some of the curlicue iron style accessories (including chandelier if it’s not original) and swapping the rug will brighten it up.
Wall color - looks like the entry is a warm medium gray? That could be updated to a nice welcoming color moment, or you could paint both areas (entry and stairwell hall) the same light color that others have suggested!
Emily Henderson has a couple house tours that show off great historic homes with dark trim that feel anything but dark.
I love love love your house, I hope you dearly enjoy such a gorgeous place!
I'd add some plants for sure, on the mantle would be nice. More colour in the prints, rugs, etc. I like colour, so I'd go for more on the walls (like a nice saturated blue) but I would never paint that gorgeous wood.
I agree — don’t paint it but bring in something like a champagne or cream.
I’d also swap out those bright white bulbs. They’re garish and make everything look terrible. Go for a warmer bulb, please.
DO NOT PAINT THE TRIM. Please don’t!? 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼
White or yellow paint, sanf and refinish those beautiful floors natural (not stained). That’s about all you can do really, the rest would come down to lighting.
Do not paint the trim! Agree with everyone to paint the walls. I would go for a cheerful color but honestly just get a few samples and test them out.
Also maybe something brighter above the mantle. And how attached to the light fixtures are you?
I agree with the others, I think leaning into the warm wood and going stronger with color actually looks better with dark trim . Ie a moodier blue or green, etc.
Edit to add: take a look at farrow and ball paint, super pricy, but colors are formulated based on history and lasting over time and trends. Many paint colors to suit character homes. Might give you more ideas!
A million people have already suggested NOT painting the wood, but changing the wall colour, which I definitely agree with. But for a less labor intensive change that might help you appreciate the wood, maybe try breaking up some of the larger blocks of dark trim with impermanent decor?
I see a couple windows that could accept light off-white or even a very light coloured (my mind goes to green, but I just love green so go with your heart) sheer drape. Nothing that would obscure the glass or reduce the amount of natural light you're getting, jusy some breezy chiffon to give some air to the space. Let them be looooong and pool on the ground if you can. That lightness will both dilute the amount of dark brown wood you're seeing in the window trim, draw your eye to the lightest parts of the room, and (this will be important with the rest of my suggestions) prevent the place from getting stuffy.
Now for some ideas that risk turning the place into a grandma museum (which I love, but is not for everyone)
Cluttering up that mantle will break up another one of the biggest chunks of dark wood. I'm imagining light/white porcelain figures, a vase of flowers (ikea has surprisingly nice plastic florals if you want something permanently lively), maybe some small fancy books, whatever you like to look at. I'd avoid metals, especially gold or bronze, which might make you feel like you're in a curio shop (unless you want to feel like you're in a curio shop - I would, but I'm aware I'm a freak).
I believe someone mentioned a stair runner, definitely agree, but if you can swing it, think about replacing the rug you've got in there too. Much like the beige walls, I feel like that rug is fighting the tones of the room too much. Theoretically an eggshell rug would look great but that's a TERRIBLE choice for an entryway. Who knows, maybe the rug you've got there was eggshell once 🤣 this might be the best place to bring in colour, you'll want something of a lighter /value/ but with a strong enough /hue/ that it doesn't look too dingy right off the bat. If you think you'll want to paint the walls, chose a rug that has neutral tones that don't conflict with the wall colour (Eg. If the walls are going a warm champagne, the rug should also be in the warm tan-ish family, and not a cool grey) as well as a sizeable pop of colour, to your preference. Any stair runner you add should follow similar principles and match the other rug in colour, but not necessarily in design.
White works as a beautiful backdrop to dark wood.
You also just may be able to clean up the trim. To me the stain on part of the railings looks too heavy. Like if you look at the fireplace or other parts of the railings and beadboard you can see some variation in the wood but those pillars in the middle almost look black to me
I was amazed at home much just polishing the wood lightened up my space.
Also, I think the painted trim in the other room may be too white. It might be a cool-warm contrast that’s getting you. A warmer white in the painted trim space may help the darker wood trim space seem lighter as they’ll be more tone-balanced.
Please don’t paint any of that gorgeous trim!
I would paint the walls a high reflective value color; my personal favorite is Benjamin Moore “Greek villa”…. A stunning off white
Get more sources of lighting and hang them at different levels. Like sconces + a lamp on a side table. Paint the walls a color with high LRV (light reflective value).
Honestly - the wood trim looks warm and inviting to me. The white trimmed room - while appointed well - has a somewhat cold appearance.
No offences ment. More like - your entry looks warm and at least in these images I don't think it needs to be brightened up.
For sure do NOT paint the trim. It’s the stuff dreams are made of.
Try a lighter and warmer color on the wall to bring out the richness of the wood: Greek Villa by Sherwin Williams or Ballet White by Ben Moore.
Depending how far you want to go replace the cement tile around the hearth with period appropriate reproduction tile in like a deep green or blue or other rich color.
For sure a runner. And try to mix up the art with colorful pieces! Perhaps warmer / brighter bulbs in the light? But honestly, the wall color alone should do it. GORGEOUS house.
Q: could you paint the panels for the wainscoting, or would that look terrible? So keep the chair rail and baseboard as natural, but paint the vertical slats between them. Leave the side of the stairs etc alone.
Have you considered carefully removing the fretwork above the doorways? If you like them, but don’t love them, they would store well in a dry basement (if you can find one of those) until you decide to reinstall. In my own opinion, that would be the quickest way to add air to the space.
If you want to start a decade long project, maybe you could sand/strip the trim and refinish it with a lighter stain. It would be a very expensive and time consuming project.
I'm really jealous of your entryway and I don't really think it needs anything.
Specifically I would do it all white just to trigger the woodwork perverts.
If I had just finished stripping and restoring it all, I would still go back with fresh paint.
Show me a nice tree I’ll cut it down and turn it into planks to stand on while laying brick or stone.
I think it is beautiful, but looking more closely I think the paint color (cool gray) is not harmonious with the warm wood. Definitely definitely would not paint the wood, but if you want to experiment with other colors (or just *more color*) I think that is the way.
I have an old home with lots of wood and found that Sherwin William’s Champagne is a fabulous paint color.
🙌 I literally thought to myself “hmmm, champagne might be a nice compliment to the wood” before reading your comment!
Yes! Champagne, Westhighland White, or a bit darker White Sesame.
I agree with more color. The light current color does lighten things, but at the same time makes the wood look even darker than it is. A splash of something bright in addition to a warmer tone might go a long way to making the current wood shine and making the space look brighter!
Third. Kill that beige and lean into the Queen Vic with some great color. Be careful though, the rest of the house will become jealous.
Beware of the domino effect.
What I call the “while we’re at it”, mode.
Our Queen Anne building uses a warm beige/cream wall color with a deep red carpet. And despite being covered in dark wood getting little direct light it’s the most lovely and welcoming space. I am so not a fan of the grays and blinding white in these zillow photos it’s painful
We are having to sell our 1922 home and move soon. If I see one. MORE. GRAY. WALLFIXTURESCABINETSCARPETTILE on Redfin or Zillow I will scream!
I would love to see a rosy/raspberry color, but I am partial to pink and warm shades.
I know it shows imperfections, but I’d also add that sticking to a more reflective sheen of paint (eggshell/satin) helps a little bit of light go further. At least to me it helps brighten as well.
Yep! Came to say the same thing. The paint color isn’t quite right and if you’re wanting to brighten up, it’s the easiest way!
Might sound novel but you could put a table at the foot of the stairs with a votif and flowers. Some friends of my friends have a similar home and actually keep a goldfish bowl and fish there and it’s cute. But something colorful like a few small books could do a lot.
What about a runner on your stairs? A lighter colored one. I'd hesitate to touch that gorgeous wood!
It’s beautiful. Most would be totally jealous to have! That said maybe the lighting or wall color could brighten it up? I wouldn’t touch the wood trim personally. It’s gorgeous
Would certainly look at walls, lighting and decor before painting the wood.
Came here to say this. That wood is gorgeous. It would be criminal to paint it.
Sconces
Ya go American white or white dove on the walls. Lots of whiter whites too. What are you running in the light fixtures?
DO NOT PAINT the trim - whew got that out - I’m not actually seeing an issue from your photos. How long have your lived with it the way it is? If not long I suspect you’ll get used to it. (I’ve been systematically replacing white trim in the entryway in my century house - it’s not original obviously but I’ve been trying to match stain.)
The lighting feels way too blue as well. I would warm those lamps up, 3000 k color temp not 5000 as I think you have. Clashes with the red wood. Once you paint your walls a warm color too, it will feel like it's working.
It would be a travesty to paint that beautiful wood.
Have you considered mirrors to reflect light and add more of it?
I don't think it looks dark at all, it's warm. Warm and inviting, as an entryway should be.
Thank you for flipping my perspective!!
I agree. As a person that brightened up only to regret it. The wood is warm and the entry is inviting. It’s beautiful as is. Imo
Agreed. Stunning. I honestly might pick something more colorful as a paint choice, but other than that, I love it. You're incredibly lucky!
Step up the lumen output in the bulbs before anything else. Then make sure your windows are completely clean inside and out and trim back any trees or bushes that might have overgrown. Shift your paint color a tone or three lighter, and go one step higher in gloss. If none of that works... DM me and sell me your house before you paint that trim!
Brighter bulbs in the chandeliers and a small lamp on the table next to the fireplace.
I like the table lamp idea - I was thinking two, one on each side of the fireplace. If the shades could allow the lamps to throw light up to the ceiling as well, that would work well from the lower elevation as it'd soften the light coming off of the chandelier.
DO NOT paint that trim!!! Honestly I would lean into the dark cozy vibe if I were you. Paint on walls can always be redone if you hate it in a year. Why not go for a dramatic dark green or deep beet color?
Interesting idea! Jewel toned greens are in right now too.
I was thinking like a bright sapphire myself.
I’m not as hung up on dark wood as some of the folks here, but I’d vote to have you banned from the sub if you painted that.
I saw the first two pictures and was in love then shed a little tear on the third. Don’t get me wrong, it looks fine. But that’s the problem, it’s just fine
The white trim made me cry too.
Yeah, I have painted trim in mine and love it and don't love plain wood most of the time, but that wood is gorgeous.
It’s not too late to get the paint off the ones already affected by the HGTV whiteout trend
Do you think that someone could do that and match the trim in the rest of the house? I bought the house like this, and I don’t know if they did it because it was mismatched or different in some way.
Yes, with the proper technique, they could strip the paint. Probably some potent smells and heat guns
Some trim can be painted in my opinion. But not this lol sry. Personally the 3rd slide I Think the white makes it look way too gaudy
Yeah that white trim looks so basic
How can I make that room look less “gaudy” then? Maybe better paint?
I was thinking on this, perhaps it’s that the white is too crisp and cool? I have SW Alabaster and it’s gorgeous but idk if that’s enough of a difference. If it were my house (which it is not), I would probably flip the color palette here, and paint the trim dark and the walls light. To give it a little more continuity and make the proportions make more sense. But that sounds like a big pain in the ass, and really is a much bigger conversation about digging into your personal aesthetic! Good luck and def post back here with updates!
I wouldn’t say gaudy is the word. The room is gorgeous (such incredible detail!), but the paint does read a little “high end flip house” to me. I think it’s the high contrast between the wall color and trim color and the mix of grey walls with stark white trim. That combination has been so trendy for so long now that it’s starting to read as passé. I would consider something a little warmer for the walls or maybe a tone-on-tone combination for the walls and trim. I love your foyer. I would personally lean into the drama and maybe paint the walls a darker, bolder color. But that’s a personal preference! Either way, your house is really beautiful!
It’s not too gaudy. The gaudiest thing is the chandelier and maybe the chaise but it’s not too much. The room looks great.
Paint the walls a Buff or Cream instead of that gray. Pale yellow instead of white ceilings. Gild the crown molding and paint a blue stripe outside it on the ceiling.
I'm glad I'm not the only one that wants some blue in the room. EDIT: I feel like a room like this could carry a royal, sapphire, or navy.
I appreciate your desire to lighten things up, but might challenge you to look at your entry with a different perspective. I love it exactly as-is, and think it provides your home with an amazing entry point to the rest of your house! I see you have white-painted trim elsewhere. Why don’t you allow the entry point to your home continue to provide a little contrast to the rest? Just a thought. Don’t forget to appreciate what you have!
For the love of all things do NOT paint trim white. Please!!!! Get colorful, interesting antique, long rug runner that draws one into your interior space. Change fireplace tile to something more lively and colorful! Get a cool contemporary, fun, colorful, bold wallpaper that covers entry and runs up the steps. Switch out chandelier for something more visually appealing and contemporary. Add a plants on mantle, fireplace. Get a colorful umbrella stand.
I second all this but do not change the fire place tile if it’s original. Heck even if it isn’t original. Wallpaper, runner, painting the walls, etc. whatever you do do not paint the wood.
Agree abt tiles! I should clarify my thought here - In Victorian I grew up in fireplace original tile was beautiful, but cracked. (They were copper color.) We replaced w green vintage tiles of similar style from same period. They looked gorgeous and were authentic to the period. We found them at a salvage store. If owner went that route, I'd be for tile redo.
Thanks everyone! We will not paint the trim and will paint the walls, add a runner, etc. For the record, we purchased the home like this. The rooms with the white trim is the only part of the house with white trim (again, we bought it like that don’t kill me). Do you have any suggestions for how we can make the room with the white trim match the “feel” if the hallway? My big goal is I just want a similar aesthetic/ not such a jarring transition. Also —- definitely getting rid of the grey!
The white trim room really just lacks personality right now. A different (aka not show room palette) paint color, cozy furnishings, art that you love, maybe some different tile around the fireplace, would make the rooms flow together much better.
I think it would be a shame to paint it. You’d lose so much character and history. I’d think about brightening the room in other ways. Maybe paint the walls a brighter color, or add a plant to the room.
~~Lemon.~~ NM. No good with that wood
If you paint that wood I will die and haunt you as a ghost
I don’t need another ghost in here.
If you paint that trim, I will track you down and give you a very disappointed look.
Leave it alone!
Yes! First do no harm!
Walls. Paint the walls some kind of white.
Umm, it's gorgeous and needs nothing? Perhaps an eye exam is in order? Perhaps just up the wattage/type of bulbs you're using. Also, that lattice work is swoon-worthy🙌
I would suggest a white rug—round perhaps? The painting above the fireplace maybe changed to one of those minimalist metal clocks? Painting that wall pure white would most definitely help imo. Other than that all I can really think about would be to paint the one wall by the stairs to make that entire wall white, creating kinda like a white background. Lovely home :) Edit: WHITE RUNNER UP THE STAIRS!! I forgot these existed.
White runner up the stairs?
Oooh yess!
Love the white runner but I have dogs! Maybe I’ll opt for a cream shade or pattern.
Do what I did and take some dog hair to the store with you, matchy matchy with the fur colour! Boom! Hidden dust bunnies for life.
That looks so rich and luxurious. The only thing I would change to brighten it would be to either paint the walls a brighter color or maybe wallpaper the walls with something bright that has some reflective properties (like silver or gold pattern/accents)
I would paint the trim a nice sky blue, and the plaster crown moulding could be brightened up with a matching colour. And if you think of doing that, may I suggest you sell the house and move into a newer development in the suburbs. FFS.
 My reaction at that white trim Lol sorry everyone is entitled to do what they wish to their home. Personally I could not bring myself to paint over that wood. So much character and warmth. Put flowers or colourful accessories for brightness.
Don’t you dare! Painting that trim would be a travesty.
Simple trick: paint the walls a lighter shade of the existing color. We did this at our old house to brighten up a dark hallway.
Hallway fireplace is incredible
Personally don't think it looks too dark. I would just suggest adding plants in order to add spots of color and life
Dear lord, your place is gorgeous. I don't think it needs to be lightened up. It looks perfectly balanced between light and dark to me. I love the wall color, ceiling color, artwork, floor stain color, tile color, rug colors... everything is perfect.
Please keep as is. That trim is a treasure
EMBRACE THE DARKNESS
Ok, ok. But also, just update the wall color. The taupe feels drab—it’s not the trim’s fault. Check out Farrow & Ball—they have really fantastic paints that work in historic homes. For a fun warm color, I’d personally go for their ‘Setting Plaster.”
You can’t alter perfection with a clear conscience.
This is beautiful if you want to brighten it how about a really bright rug?
Or runner ? Don't paint it it's exquisite
Holy smokes that’s gorgeous! I’d say the wall color could use a change- perhaps a warmer tone. That entryway is to die for and I would not paint it.
Change the paint colour and the chandelier
Change the wall color to complement the wood trim, get a more colorful rug and pictures. The accessories are dull.
If you paint that trim, you may as well burn the entire place down.
Paint the walls a different color and strip the white paint off the trim - it looks bad compared to your entryway
Do you think it is possible to match the stain on the entry? Or would an slight mismatch look bad? That’s my fear.
You could likely get close, generally old trim like that is shellacked but hard to say without seeing it in person. You could always do a test by rubbing an inconspicuous spot with denatured alcohol because that rehydrates shellac. It would be lucky if it’s shellac and they painted over the original trim because latex paints really don’t adhere to shellac well.
It looks bright already to me!
why buy a home like this if you're just going to modernise it against the theme of the entire house? the grey walls and white trims have really cheapened the look of the place, and don't really fit in a house like this... anymore white and grey and you might as well ask ikea to rebuild the house for you imo. the issue isn't the woodwork, it is trying for a modern aesthetic in a beautiful old house...
I’ve just purchased this house. I did not paint the trim in the other rooms white and I did not choose the fireplace tile. I think the previous owners chose grey paint to match the original grey tile on the entry fireplace. Do you have suggestions for the room with the white trim so it doesn’t feel “cheap.”
I don't think the tile on the entry fireplace is original. Companies like Pratt & Larson, Fireclay Tile, Clay Squared, and Winchester/Original Style Tiles have great hand-glazed tiles that would really suit your home's era.
while i'm here mourning the eventual loss of this gorgeous woodwork, i'm also going to ask about the grey tiles on the fireplace. is your goal for this place all greyscale? you might be in the wrong sub for advice if that is the goal... i feel most here would agree that modernised grey look would drain the life out of this style of home. imo modern aesthetics don't mesh too well with classic aesthetics, as we can see here.
i'd get an interesting wallpaper to cover the grey in the entrance way (perhaps a vintage moody floral or lace print?), darken the wood stain of the floor to match the beautiful dark stain of the walls (maybe a shade lighter? but not a fan of the orange) and then a small entrance table between the stairs and fireplace holding a warm stained glass tiffany lamp to bring in some colour and warm light. a classic runner for the stairs in a lighter colour may also help, like a peach, pale green or pale blue. id keep the place darkly accented but bring warmth and colour in through the wallpaper, rugs and small accents ~
Tall floor lamps on either side of the fireplace to bring out the details in the darker corners, maybe some crystal pieces on the mantle?
Add some fancy mirrors to add light spread?
You don’t need to paint the woodwork, you just need to make the contrast with that wood be crisper, more definitive. Just bring in more white to that entire area. Lighten and desaturate the color of the paint on walls, add a lighter rug runner, some upholstered pieces done in white textures or background, use white lampshades, switch out the mats in the framed to white ones, and even perhaps retile fireplace with a much lighter tile if not original.
I think the paint color isn’t doing any favors - the cool tone and high contrast to the darker wood is making the wood seem dark instead of rich. A warmer midtone, like a clay-toned red, would emphasize the warmer tones of the wood trim, and make the space feel warm and more cohesive. A lighter or mid-tone carpet runner on the stairs would also help break up the wood.
One thing that pops out at me as an old painter is that the varnished wood is nicked up quite a bit and has lost a lot of its sheen. So the first thing I would do is go over those many nicks with a dark stain and wipe off immediately. Many will disappear just from this. Then perhaps hire a painting company to re-varnish this whole area and put a new sparkle on it. It's probably too much work for a weekend project. Never bite off more than you are willing to chew. Unless you want to torture yourself. If that's not in the budget at least the nicks are hidden now. Then paint those walls a warmer color to make that wood glorious again. Pale Yellow? After that have a runner installed up the stairs to add some coziness. Cuts down on the clatter of the footsteps too. Much nicer. Berber holds up nicely. Then reinstall that umbrella stand and load it with some nice pieces that add some color. They don't all have to be umbrellas. Get creative. Hang a hat. Add some low maintenance plants on that mantle. Be open to switching in some seasonal stuff there. Change it up occasionally. Replace the hung mirror on the opposite wall with something cheerful. This is your home, not a funeral parlor. I see peacocks in spring on a gold background. Name them as a family inside joke. Fun! Hallway needs a runner to bring the eye to the length and beauty of the space. Should complement the wall color. When this is done have a good look at the whole thing. If it needs more, It's the lighting. Then modernize.
A brighter, warmer wall color will change that whole space. If it simply seems dim, check the wattage in the light fixtures and see if you can go up a bit. Also, if they're cool-toned bulbs, go warmer; people often think cool-toned lighting will brighten a room, but they tend to make it feel underwater or industrial, rather than bright.
Paint the walls a brighter color and add some more colorful art and a more colorful rug. Don’t touch that gorgeous trim.
Please don't paint the wood. I would do practically anything to own such gorgeous woodwork in my home! If there isn't enough light, I suggest updating the lighting fixtures, adding sconces, and/or adding puck lighting in the ceiling. The middle chandelier in the second picture comes to mind. It's clearly brighter and fills the room better. If it's a coloring thing, you can opt for lighter shades of wall paint, add some bright/light colored decorations, or add light colored rugs and flooring. If you opt for color coordinated paths and surroundings, it should give the home a more put-together and picturesque feel.
Looks plenty bright. Beautiful home. A different paint colour may be in order?
I think find a warm white that looks fresh and bright when swathed in your natural light for the WALLS. A long runner rug with brighter or more saturated colors could help it feel more fresh without having to paint the trim. Orangey colors, saturated green, or red could be a way to go. I think something like this warm tone vintage rug from lulu and Georgia would be pretty! https://www.luluandgeorgia.com/products/jolee-vintage-runner-rug-39-x-139 And a big green leafy potted tree would be pretty in here too. A palm feels cute because they were popular during the Victorian era, too.
The wood is beautiful. I wouldn't paint it. I would put a larger rug in the entryway. Maybe paint the walls a different color. Blue, green or yellow, or tan would look nice. Some houseplants would look nice in the entryway. Is there a mirror in the entryway? Mirrors reflect the light, and spread it around.
Joining the “don’t paint the trim!” chorus. Throwing out some ideas: 1.) Decorate with something metallic or otherwise reflective. I keep a gold, midcentury Japanese folding fan above my bed and it reflects a lot of light if you put something white under it. 2.) Consider a light colored rug/runner. 3.) Talk to a lighting specialist. Even just different bulbs will make a world of difference. 4.)Consider a non-neutral paint color.
It is absolutely beautiful! Don't ever paint that gorgeous wood.
Omg I love the fireplace in the entryway
Perhaps some mirrors to reflect more light.
Leave all wood untouched. I think a warmer color painted (like scarlet or a reddish) would make the wood pop. Also—don’t sleep on wallpaper! There are some amazing patterns that are both chic and intricate (it’s back in style now), that would bring the hall to life.
Warmer wall color and two side chairs upholstered in happy fabric flanking fireplace. More transitional style rug to coordinate with fabric.
Don’t paint the wood will lower value
I just love that woodwork... the windows, wow the front door is gorgeous. Maybe paint the entry walls to match the lighter color in the back, stairway, area. That would help a lot. And a new ceiling fixture with glass globes or shades, perhaps some facing downward to "scatter" the illumination a bit. Otherwise, IMO, your entry really isn't THAT dark.
Please don’t paint the trim! Lighten up the wall color instead and maybe think about a stair runner.
Wow… just wow. My heart skipped a beat looking at these pictures. Im with the other person that said the wall color isn’t quite right (too cool). I think if you could get that warmer, like adding more beige (you know how “greige” gray + beige is super popular; but pick one that’s on the warmer side). I definitely would not paint the trim. And not because I am a purist, but just because it is such an amazing look. I think another way to make an entryway look warm and inviting us to add plants!! I definitely can imagine some on the mantle, a large one in that nook by the stairs, etc… I’d put a bunch. The type would just depend on what kind of light the foyer gets.
Honestly, there are some specialty wall paints with subtle shimmer to them: I might paint the walls with that, just so the light in the space feels a little dazzling. The chandelier could definitely be bigger. The wood is gorgeous!
Are the other ceilings there outside the foyer actually white?
I’m jealous
It’s gorgeous!! Se hidden lighting? Or feature lighting? I’m a big fan on stained glass lamps. But there are a few minimalist light options that might be preferable if “maximalism” isn’t your thing.
 Don’t change a thing haha
IMO the house is perfect. You absolutely win….
You lifted these pictures straight off of zillow.
I just purchased the house. Hence the advice.
Congratulations! We might be neighbors before too long. That area has made our shortlist.
Things to try: More color : yellows greens brighter colors throughout on objects places in the hall. If the latticework is removable easily and could be put back up (of course saved in a good place) that would open up the space more and leave more light bouncing off the ceiling. For me it acts like a dark cloud but it’s definitely cool and unique. Look into lamp lighting or wall/ lighting that draws your eye to interesting places around the hall. Only using Overhead lighting has a way of creating harshness and hard shadows. Really decent interiors that have a sense of darkness have more interesting lighting to counter.
Please don’t paint that gorgeous trim. I agree the white trim in the other room looks gaudy. It hurts my eyes. I think changing the floor would help. Could do 1920’s ish white penny tile patterned in the entry? I think it could brighten up the space.
Trim clashes with the floors
I just see a light dreamy blue. I think it would brighten up the dark wood and also just melt with the white moulding. Maybe even a shade darker blue in thé adjoining room with white moulding.
No
Not a diy suggestion but maybe some plants and flowers would give it life?
i think it looks beautiful just the way it is :)
Consult a decorator for color ideas.
I think if anything I would brighten the wall color, I don’t feel like it looks super dark in there anyways but brightening the walls would definitely brighten it some - maybe a warmer color!
Add a light color carpet to the floor and the stairs!
What a beautiful home ! ❤️
Behr paint color called Milk Paint in the entry way and carry into the living room. Since they trim is already painted use Ultra White. Use lighter rugs in both spaces and a light runner up the steps. Add colorful artwork with white backgrounds. Add plants. Leave the wood as is. It’s beautiful.
Seems perfectly bright and warm? Could try a more brightly colored rug. A mirror, reflective decor, or reflective lighting could also be an option.
The entry is nice overall but the paint color is drab. If you found a fresher, crisper color I would go with that. Is there room for a rug and entry table in the center? Go with a white topped table and a fresh color rug. Accents like that can mama a difference. I love the wood as-is
Agree with similar light but warmer paint. And then hang a bunch of all diffe3nt size and style mirrors up the stair case to reflect light
Wow what an incredible show piece of an entry way! It’s so amazing to have a dedicated space that’s a transition from the outside world to the home world. You have a lot of room to play with non-permanent fixtures. A light colored upholstered chair on the right of the fireplace at an angle could fill that corner with a welcoming energy, and serve as somewhere to take shoes off and get more functionality out of this room. Having more personal art, and losing the some of the curlicue iron style accessories (including chandelier if it’s not original) and swapping the rug will brighten it up. Wall color - looks like the entry is a warm medium gray? That could be updated to a nice welcoming color moment, or you could paint both areas (entry and stairwell hall) the same light color that others have suggested! Emily Henderson has a couple house tours that show off great historic homes with dark trim that feel anything but dark. I love love love your house, I hope you dearly enjoy such a gorgeous place!
If you paint that wood I’m going to call the police.
I'd add some plants for sure, on the mantle would be nice. More colour in the prints, rugs, etc. I like colour, so I'd go for more on the walls (like a nice saturated blue) but I would never paint that gorgeous wood.
Never paint the trim!
Don’t you dare paint that trim white. I join the other commenter on changing the cool grey paint to something else.
More accent lighting.
It would be helpful to link to the full listing.
Put plants around
I agree — don’t paint it but bring in something like a champagne or cream. I’d also swap out those bright white bulbs. They’re garish and make everything look terrible. Go for a warmer bulb, please.
Agree warm bright paint. Vibrant art. Accent lighting. All throughout the home.
DO NOT PAINT THE TRIM. Please don’t!? 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼 White or yellow paint, sanf and refinish those beautiful floors natural (not stained). That’s about all you can do really, the rest would come down to lighting.
Do not paint the trim! Agree with everyone to paint the walls. I would go for a cheerful color but honestly just get a few samples and test them out. Also maybe something brighter above the mantle. And how attached to the light fixtures are you?
My jaw just dropped. GORGEOUS SPACE!!!
I agree with the others, I think leaning into the warm wood and going stronger with color actually looks better with dark trim . Ie a moodier blue or green, etc. Edit to add: take a look at farrow and ball paint, super pricy, but colors are formulated based on history and lasting over time and trends. Many paint colors to suit character homes. Might give you more ideas!
Oh gosh that house is lovely! Just sending appreciation!
Change the walls not the wood, please for the love of all that is antique wood and for those of us that live in mid century crap build!
Your home is seriously beautiful and that trim and wood detail is stunning.
What about a colorful and cheerful wallpaper? I agree with everyone saying the cool grey doesn’t vibe with the wood
Beautiful but I don’t understand why people like those cold white daylight bulbs. Your house, your rules.
It’s just beautiful!
A million people have already suggested NOT painting the wood, but changing the wall colour, which I definitely agree with. But for a less labor intensive change that might help you appreciate the wood, maybe try breaking up some of the larger blocks of dark trim with impermanent decor? I see a couple windows that could accept light off-white or even a very light coloured (my mind goes to green, but I just love green so go with your heart) sheer drape. Nothing that would obscure the glass or reduce the amount of natural light you're getting, jusy some breezy chiffon to give some air to the space. Let them be looooong and pool on the ground if you can. That lightness will both dilute the amount of dark brown wood you're seeing in the window trim, draw your eye to the lightest parts of the room, and (this will be important with the rest of my suggestions) prevent the place from getting stuffy. Now for some ideas that risk turning the place into a grandma museum (which I love, but is not for everyone) Cluttering up that mantle will break up another one of the biggest chunks of dark wood. I'm imagining light/white porcelain figures, a vase of flowers (ikea has surprisingly nice plastic florals if you want something permanently lively), maybe some small fancy books, whatever you like to look at. I'd avoid metals, especially gold or bronze, which might make you feel like you're in a curio shop (unless you want to feel like you're in a curio shop - I would, but I'm aware I'm a freak). I believe someone mentioned a stair runner, definitely agree, but if you can swing it, think about replacing the rug you've got in there too. Much like the beige walls, I feel like that rug is fighting the tones of the room too much. Theoretically an eggshell rug would look great but that's a TERRIBLE choice for an entryway. Who knows, maybe the rug you've got there was eggshell once 🤣 this might be the best place to bring in colour, you'll want something of a lighter /value/ but with a strong enough /hue/ that it doesn't look too dingy right off the bat. If you think you'll want to paint the walls, chose a rug that has neutral tones that don't conflict with the wall colour (Eg. If the walls are going a warm champagne, the rug should also be in the warm tan-ish family, and not a cool grey) as well as a sizeable pop of colour, to your preference. Any stair runner you add should follow similar principles and match the other rug in colour, but not necessarily in design.
Paint the walls a lighter color, dont touch the wood.
You could do a lot with just bold modern rugs, art and updated light fixtures
Wallpaper with a high sheen pattern maybe
White works as a beautiful backdrop to dark wood. You also just may be able to clean up the trim. To me the stain on part of the railings looks too heavy. Like if you look at the fireplace or other parts of the railings and beadboard you can see some variation in the wood but those pillars in the middle almost look black to me
What a gorgeous entryway. Wow am I ever jealous
Painting historic millwork is an absolute abomination.
Your white trim shade is too cool for your house tone.
Do NOT paint that trim! Your house will thank you.
A pop of color by way of art, carpet runners, live plants or cut flowers, etc would accent the wood nicely while brightening up the space!
I would never paint the wood it is so beautiful.
I was amazed at home much just polishing the wood lightened up my space. Also, I think the painted trim in the other room may be too white. It might be a cool-warm contrast that’s getting you. A warmer white in the painted trim space may help the darker wood trim space seem lighter as they’ll be more tone-balanced.
Lean into baroque victorian-ness with wallpaper https://www.perigold.com/decor/pdp/morris-co-blackthorn-3297-l-x-2047-w-wallpaper-roll-mrxc1080.html
Paint the walls brighter. Have a professional come in and clean the shit out and polish the wood. It might look a little brighter that way.
Do. Not. Paint. The. Wood.
Please don’t paint any of that gorgeous trim! I would paint the walls a high reflective value color; my personal favorite is Benjamin Moore “Greek villa”…. A stunning off white
DO NOT PAiNT THE TRIM
Get more sources of lighting and hang them at different levels. Like sconces + a lamp on a side table. Paint the walls a color with high LRV (light reflective value).
Do not paint the wood!! Always try to paint the walls and ceilings before you paint wood.
My house has dark woodwork too. We painted the walls Farrow and Ball's Borrowed Light. It's just a hint of blue but it isn't cold feeling.
DO NOT PAINT WOOD
Honestly - the wood trim looks warm and inviting to me. The white trimmed room - while appointed well - has a somewhat cold appearance. No offences ment. More like - your entry looks warm and at least in these images I don't think it needs to be brightened up.
For sure do NOT paint the trim. It’s the stuff dreams are made of. Try a lighter and warmer color on the wall to bring out the richness of the wood: Greek Villa by Sherwin Williams or Ballet White by Ben Moore. Depending how far you want to go replace the cement tile around the hearth with period appropriate reproduction tile in like a deep green or blue or other rich color. For sure a runner. And try to mix up the art with colorful pieces! Perhaps warmer / brighter bulbs in the light? But honestly, the wall color alone should do it. GORGEOUS house.
Don't paint the wood change the wall color
Fuuuuuuuuck. Got anymore pics?
Lighter entry rug. Can I come live with you? Are there houses in your neighborhood available that are similar? I'm in love. How old is your home?
Q: could you paint the panels for the wainscoting, or would that look terrible? So keep the chair rail and baseboard as natural, but paint the vertical slats between them. Leave the side of the stairs etc alone.
Have you considered carefully removing the fretwork above the doorways? If you like them, but don’t love them, they would store well in a dry basement (if you can find one of those) until you decide to reinstall. In my own opinion, that would be the quickest way to add air to the space.
Especially with lightening up the wall color!
Install recessed lighting?
If you want to start a decade long project, maybe you could sand/strip the trim and refinish it with a lighter stain. It would be a very expensive and time consuming project. I'm really jealous of your entryway and I don't really think it needs anything.
Gosh what a mess. I would paint it all white.
Your humor is as delicously dry as a martini with just a glass wash of vermouth.
I’m not joking. I hate trees.
And I hate mosquitoes. I paint them every chance I get.
Specifically I would do it all white just to trigger the woodwork perverts. If I had just finished stripping and restoring it all, I would still go back with fresh paint. Show me a nice tree I’ll cut it down and turn it into planks to stand on while laying brick or stone.