Dark wood panel family & dining room?

Question

Does anyone have any pictures or websites with pictures to share that has dark wood wall panel? I am in the process of purchasing a home and the wall panel is very dark & in good condition. My wife wants to keep the wall panel because it is beautiful but the room looks very dark. The floors are beautiful hardwood about the same color as the panel. I know we can paint the panel but we are looking at other options to brighten up the room. If you know of any websites that has pictures that shows ways to dress up a dark wood panel room please let me know. It will be greatly appreciated.

Answer 1

Hi. I always liked Dark Paneling. The best ways I know are to have a WHITE ceiling, worked best for me. Light coloured fabric furniture, Curtains,(I used the white shears with heavy drapes in shades of gold,creames and light browns for night time on double drape rods,the kind you close with cords), and/or carpeting.
One friend installed lighting around the perimeter of the room to shine only on the ceiling. This really lit up the room from the white paint reflecting the light. Another friend used small strategically placed lighted mirror strips. You can also use the 'Daylight Bulbs'.
I think it is a real shame to paint any paneling.
Also, maybe try Martha Stewart and Heloise's websites, among others for other ideas.
Hope this helps.
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Answer 2

We had wood paneling in the basement and hated it. My husband painted the paneling white and it looks great; but since your wife wants to keep it here are some ideas:
Decide on a color theme.
Use an area rug on the floor in a light color.
Choose window treaments that will coordinate with the rug. You do not have to match the rug and window treatments, but go with the same color family. I would suggest a yellow. Not bright, but creamy. It will really brighten up the room. Why not go with a floral or a pattern in the window treaments. I use window toppers w/ blinds. I pull the blinds up or open them in the day to let the light in. Pull a color out of the curtains for the rug. Accent with throw pillows, nice pictures on the wall with white frames. Don't use wood on wood. I would try to avoid using a lot of wood (I prefer painted). It will make the room brighter and appear larger. Use plenty of lighting also.
Check out www.hgtv.com for more ideas.
I hope this helps! Good Luck!!!!!

Answer 3

I don't have any websites, but I would like to suggest to you that if you keep everything dark, I would go lighter on your furniture and decore. If possible add a window or two to bring in more light. Possibly make a small window larger, and recessed lighting throughout the room will add not only light but drama and class to the room.