For the past two years I have been corresponding with a client in Airlie Beach, Queensland. As I explained when we first started exchanging emails, it’s been over 30 years since I was in Airlie Beach so she figured I wasn’t going to pop in for a consultation any time soon, no matter how much I would have liked.
Airlie Beach and The Whitsundays
Mel has a house on acreage which is all timber inside and her query was the same as I am often asked, “Will I paint the timber?” She had timber panelled walls and timber panelled ceilings. A number of skylights were allowing some light to enter but she was also wondering if she should instal more skylights.
Before
Before installing more skylights, I suggested she paint the ceiling but leave the beams in timber, as the timber on the ceiling AND the walls was sucking up any light that was getting in to the room. I was conscious of the fact that the timber panelling was part of the style and architecture of the home and I always believe that the architecture should be maintained or acknowledged. I wasn’t sure if Mel was open to painting the walls as well.
Kitchen Before
Mel came back to me very quickly saying, Yes, she was open to painting the walls. She had just completed painting her son’s bedroom and realised that paint doesn’t detract from the charisma of the timber. She agreed that the paint modernised the space and took away that dated look.
Son’s Room Before Paint
Son’s Room After Paint
Just as we had completed the emails, I spotted this image which I sent through to her. From then on it was a done deal.
Perfect example of leaving some timber
So last month she sent through images of the living area all painted. Hasn’t she done a wonderful job?
Before
After
There is never a right or wrong way to treat timber. Just keep in mind what you want to achieve. In this case, Mel wanted light, bright and modern. I think she got it.
Look at that stained glass detailing. You couldn’t see it with all that dark timber.
Painting the ceiling
Kitchen After
If you would like assistance with your interior design dilemma, contact me for a consultation.
