The Reno Projects

Playful Trim and Baseboards

One of the things I love most about my house is the original baseboards. They stand at 10″ off the floor and are caked of old paint. Unfortunately, there are very few places that these beautiful baseboards remain in the house; only the top floor in the hall way and the South facing bedroom. This post brings me to a similar theme that I had with the door post, I love the old and want it back in a big way. Big, bold, and hefty trims and baseboards brings charm and architectural detail to these old homes.

This got me to thinking…I am considering painting my trim and baseboards not your typical white, but instead, black. Yes, black. I said it. Black. I love the idea. It’s so strong, graphic and sexy. I have done it once in a commercial space, and it made the dark, viewing room pop!

Reception/editing Room
VIA
Ever since I did this space, I keep thinking about the trim doing this to my house. Naturally, I have to think of re-sale and if this will make the rooms seem smaller (as dark colours will do that). And so with those thoughts, I am going to put this idea out there and see what people have to say. Perhaps this isn’t the perfect home for it, but maybe yours is! I am following with some inspirational pictures that might give you a different perspective!
Elegant, powder room with classic black and white theme
via
This strong space is quite dark, with the floors and built ins also using black.
 (imagine cleaning the dust off that floor? Yikes!)
via
These black frame windows create a dramatic look against the
stark white walls. And I LOVE the red light fixture!
Via

This greyish green colour adds life to an otherwise monochramtic
colour scheme. 
Here, goldish yellow trim acts as a neutral, yet sets an
earthy tone to the space.
via

Wood trim is also another common alternative in trim work. Instead of white,
some opt out for the natural wood look.
via

Did these make you think outside the box a bit? Maybe white isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. It’s safe and common, but since when is that fun or creative? Trim and baseboards are what define the architectural details in your home. To make those elements stand out and have presence, consider a colour; commonly, going two or three shades darker than your wall colour for the trim/baseboards creates a  contemporary look. For a more traditional look and feel, wood would likely be your best bet. 

· Uncategorized

Comments

  1. i love your taste and trained eye k, but this is one time where i'm gonna disagree – i hate seeing trim painted anything but white. i don't know why, but i can't get over it. something about it just looks… dirty? unless of course the natural wood is still pure and visible, in that case it's a travesty to paint it at all! haha, i'm such a traditionalist…

    all that being said though, if you do paint outside the box, maybe you'll open my eyes to find the beauty in it!

  2. I love the honesty! I don't think it's for everyone, I agree. For that point, I will probably go with the white trim. One day, I will surprise you and make you love the painted trim! 🙂

  3. I love painted trim in certain spaces…but I'm the kind of gal who loves a painted COLOURED ceiling too 🙂

    I'm sure whatever you choose, your place will look fantastic.

    Can you have it ALL done by December when I'm home for a visit? K, thanks.

    *Tania @ Passport2Design.com

@kmsalterdesign