It seems like most people redoing their home go for white trim on the interior.

Monica C
by Monica C
It has a nice, fresh look for sure. But We have a 1930s bungalow where all the wood trim is in tact. I wish there were more examples of houses that "work" that have been updated, but still keep the wood trim and doors. Just need some inspiration!
  19 answers
  • 3po3 3po3 on Sep 26, 2011
    I can't really help you, except to offer solidarity. I agree that wood trim looks really nice, but I don't see it enough.
  • Here's a website that gives before & after pictures of bungalows...I hope that this is helpful & will give you some inspiration! http://www.winconinc.com/before-after.html
  • KMS Woodworks KMS Woodworks on Sep 28, 2011
    My brother lives in a 1927 bugalow...All of his trim is painted...underneath it is all solid oak...I keep asking when he is going to bring back that original charm...he says " I just paid 5 grand to have it repainted, now you want me to strip it" to which I reply "YES, I'll help" I have seen some other homes in his neighbor hood of the same style and age they are indeed true craftsman's work's of art.
  • Kimberly Lacy Kimberly Lacy on Sep 28, 2011
    If your home was built in the 1930's you more than likely have a pretty good quality wood for the trim. Don't let modernizing the home trick you to think updating means painting the trim white. White is so typical these days although pretty and bright I personally prefer keeping the integrity of the character you get with older homes. Wood is classic and timeless. I love mixing the old/vintage with new. Shine that wood up with Murphy's oil soap and call it day. Continue with whatever style decor and color combos you want, it will all turn out beautifully.
  • Lakeisha M Lakeisha M on Sep 28, 2011
    I love bungalows! I promised myself my next home would be a bungalow.
  • Designing Home INc. Designing Home INc. on Sep 28, 2011
    This is something that is really personal, the best way is just looking through on line pictures, like houzz.com
  • KMS Woodworks KMS Woodworks on Sep 29, 2011
    Kimberly...nice pics...are these form one of your clients?
  • When we remodeled, we went with wood trim in the main room which required a stain grade trim and gave it a nice stain.
  • Thanks KMS. We really love the wood and the new kitchen cabinetry looks great. We have built in cabinets in the great room that match the same style.
  • Micci S Micci S on Sep 29, 2011
    Monica, it seems the wood finishes are gaining popularity again, and I think the warm, rich wood tones would be a plus in Montana. (I went to MSU Bozeman) I've seen a lot of great examples on here, have fun! @Kimberly, beautiful room, would love to see it furnished! @Kevin, you really live here?! Just kidding, it's amazing!
  • Micci, thanks, I think. ;) That was a pro photo taken by the contractor before we got all the new items in for her portfolio and also for the Tour of Homes last year... but then again, I don't have an 11 yr old (and NO I don't want one no matter how much you are paying to take him :D )
  • Kevin, that is BEAUTIFUL! I know that most builders will opt for paint grade trim rather than stain grade just because of the cost.
  • Jean Jean on Oct 02, 2011
    Hi Monica, I feel your pain. I live in a 1920's Craftsman in Butte, MT and we have the original unpainted wood, also. I've just chosen to go very light on the wall color (cream in your coffee by Valspar) and very light furniture colors. I try to work a little color in with the pillows and rug.
  • KMS Woodworks KMS Woodworks on Oct 03, 2011
    Jean...how do you keep that white couch looking so...WHITE. I guess there are no kids or pets in your home...LOL
  • Kim B Kim B on Oct 03, 2011
    if ypu like the wood keep it!!! maybe change the stain fron light to dark or dark to light?
  • Monica, One of the classic features of a bungalow is the outline of natural materials like wood. If you keep within the warmer medium tones ( VS white or very light) for your walls, it will not seem like such a harsh contrast. The outline of wood is timeless. Here are some photos that show the difference side by side. Hope this helps. Here is a link that shows other spaces in this home: http://www.kasswilson.com/blog-design-visions/ceilings/frank-lloyd-delight
  • Kass, a great demonstration of the difference. Wow. Amazing.
  • Jean Jean on Oct 04, 2011
    KMS, you're half right. No kids, they're grown, but we do have 2 black cats! About once a week I have to remove the hair with a special brush. Also, there's one particular spot they sleep on the back of the sofa and I have a throw there, so all I have to do is toss that in the wash occasionally. Plus, the couch has a slipcover and I can wash it if I like. So, no worries! When the kids were home, tho...always had a DARK couch!