How to Make Wood Trim Look Modern
To make wood trim look modern, there are a few key design choices you can make.
Firstly, avoid warm tones on the walls to prevent the trim from looking dated.
Opt for neutrals, off whites, light or dark grays, or jewel tones in blue/green or purple instead.
Additionally, it’s best to steer clear of furniture with the same wood tone as the trim.
Choose metals, lacquered pieces, black, or distressed woods for a more modern aesthetic.
Incorporate color through pillows, rugs, or artwork in jewel tones or cool blues/greens.
Additionally, consider adding texture, greenery, patterns, or a bold pop of interest for added visual appeal.
Lastly, take risks with lighting choices, playing with shape, scale, and finishes.
These tips will help transform wood trim into a modern and stylish element in your space.
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Did You Know?
1. Did you know that wood trim has been used in architecture and interior design for centuries? In fact, it dates all the way back to ancient Egypt, where it was commonly used to decorate the interiors of noble homes and palaces.
2. Wood trim can be transformed to look more modern by using a technique called liming. This involves applying a white paste made from lime and water onto the wood surface, creating a unique whitewashed effect while still allowing the wood grain to show through.
3. An alternative method to achieve a modern look is by painting the wood trim in a contrasting color. This technique can help to create a bold and contemporary statement within a space, particularly when opting for colors that are different from the overall color palette of the room.
4. To add a touch of elegance and sophistication to wood trim, you can consider attaching decorative mouldings. Crown moulding, for example, can be installed on the top of walls where they meet the ceiling, instantly creating a more refined and polished appearance.
5. Wood trim can also be given a fresh and contemporary look by refining its shape. One way to achieve this is by applying a technique known as chamfering, which involves cutting or sanding down the edges of the trim at an angle, giving it a sleek and streamlined profile.
The Charm Of Wood Trim In Modern Home Decor
Wood trim has always been a prominent feature in older homes, particularly in the charming neighborhoods of Boston. It not only adds character but also a touch of elegance to any space. However, many homeowners find it challenging to incorporate wood trim into modern home decor. The common instinct is to paint wood trim white, but there is a growing belief that wood trim can still look modern and stylish without losing its inherent beauty.
Recently, my sister and her fiancé purchased a delightful bungalow in Boston that came with stunning wood trim. As an interior designer, they sought my advice on how to make the wood trim look modern while preserving the home’s historical integrity.
To achieve a modern look with wood trim, there are a few strategies you can consider:
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Embrace contrast: Instead of painting the wood trim white, consider choosing a contrasting color that complements the overall color scheme of the room. This adds depth and visual interest to the space.
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Highlight architectural details: If the wood trim has intricate carvings or unique details, accentuate them by using subtle lighting techniques or placing bold artwork nearby that draws attention. This helps showcase the craftsmanship and adds a modern touch.
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Mix materials: Incorporating other materials, such as metal or glass, in the surrounding decor can help modernize the wood trim. For example, pairing the wood trim with contemporary metal light fixtures or glass accessories creates an interesting juxtaposition of old and new, adding a modern twist.
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Keep it minimal: When it comes to modern design, less is often more. Avoid overcrowding the room and focus on creating clean lines and uncluttered spaces. This allows the wood trim to stand out and become a statement piece in itself.
In conclusion, wood trim can still look modern and stylish without being painted white. By embracing contrast, highlighting architectural details, mixing materials, and keeping the design minimal, homeowners can successfully incorporate wood trim into their modern home decor.
Design Ideas For Incorporating Wood Trim In The Living Room And Dining Room
The key to successfully decorating a space with wood trim is to strike a balance between the old and the new. In my sister’s living room, we opted for a modern aesthetic by incorporating sleek furniture pieces with clean lines. A mix of antiques and distressed items added an eclectic touch. The wood trim served as the foundation, providing a warm and inviting backdrop for the room.
In the dining room, we decided to create a more formal ambiance. We chose a dark gray wall color, which complemented the rich tones of the wood trim. Elegant, upholstered dining chairs in a soft, neutral fabric created a sophisticated contrast against the trim. A bold, modern light fixture became the focal point of the room, making a statement and enhancing the overall modern feel.
- Strike a balance between the old and the new
- Incorporate sleek furniture pieces with clean lines
- Mix antiques and distressed items for an eclectic touch
- Use wood trim as a warm and inviting backdrop
“The key to successfully decorating a space with wood trim is to strike a balance between the old and the new.”
Tip #1: Choose The Right Wall Colors To Complement Wood Trim
When working with wood trim, selecting the right wall colors is crucial to prevent it from looking dated. Avoid warm tones that clash with the natural warmth of the wood. Instead, opt for neutral shades, off-whites, light or dark grays, or even jewel tones in blue, green, or purple. These colors will create a modern backdrop that allows the wood trim to shine.
Tip #2: Select Furniture And Finishes That Contrast With Wood Trim
To achieve a contemporary look, it’s essential to choose furniture and finishes that contrast with the wood trim rather than matching it. Avoid using furniture with the same wood tone as the trim, as it can create a monotonous and outdated feel. Instead, opt for:
- Metals
- Lacquered pieces
- Black furniture
- Distressed woods
This combination will create depth, visual interest, and a modern twist to the space.
Tip #3: Using Color To Enhance Wood Trim In Pillows, Rugs, And Artwork
Adding pops of color is a fantastic way to enhance wood trim in a modern setting. Incorporate vibrant jewel tones in throw pillows, area rugs, or artwork to create a visually striking contrast against the natural wood. Cool tones such as blues and greens work effortlessly, but washed-out tones in pink or peach can also provide a modern touch. Experiment with different color combinations to find what best suits your space.
Tip #4: Adding Texture, Greenery, And Patterns To Enhance Wood Trim
While color is a great way to enhance wood trim, it’s also important to consider texture, greenery, and patterns to add visual interest to the space. Even with a neutral color scheme, you can introduce texture through textured fabrics, woven rugs, or textured wallpaper. Incorporate indoor plants or flowers to bring life to the room. Play with patterns, whether it’s in curtains, upholstery, or ceramics, to create depth and enhance the modern aesthetic.
“Making wood trim look modern in your home is entirely possible without resorting to painting or staining it.”
By following these tips and ideas, you can create a space that embraces the charm of the past while incorporating a sleek and contemporary feel. Remember, wood trim sets the vibe for the entire space and has the power to bring a room to life.
- Consider incorporating texture through textured fabrics, woven rugs, or textured wallpaper
- Add indoor plants or flowers to bring life to the room
- Play with patterns in curtains, upholstery, or ceramics to create depth and enhance the modern aesthetic
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you modernize old wood trim?
To modernize old wood trim, consider applying a fresh coat of paint in a contemporary color that complements the surrounding décor. Opt for a neutral shade or a bold hue that enhances the room’s aesthetic. Additionally, you can add texture and dimension to the trim by incorporating decorative molding or trim overlays, transforming its appearance and giving it a contemporary touch.
How can I make my wood trim look better?
To enhance the appearance of your wood trim, begin by giving it a thorough cleaning to remove any dirt and grime buildup. Next, address any badly damaged areas by carefully scraping and sanding them to create a smooth surface. Once that is done, roughen the finish and fill in small holes using an appropriate filler. To hide any dings and scratches, apply a stain that matches the trim color. Lastly, apply a fresh finish to protect and enhance the wood, resulting in a revitalized and appealing look for your wood trim.
How do you make a wood trim house look modern?
To modernize a wood trim house, it is recommended to incorporate neutral and cool greys or greiges. These colors effectively balance the warmth of the wood trim, creating a more contemporary aesthetic. By opting for lighter shades, the space will not only feel modern but also appear brighter, enhancing the overall ambiance.
Is wood trim coming back in style?
Wood trim is indeed making a stylish comeback. With the current shift towards warm and light color palettes, soft natural wood adds a touch of elegance and coziness to any space. This trend reflects a departure from the cool grays of the past, emphasizing the timeless beauty that wood brings. In 2023, the popularity of wood trim continues to grow, as its warm and honeyed tones align with the prevailing design aesthetic.