Too much wood?

[jampot]

Just finished, well almost, building house and have a problem deciding what to do with decoration. Have got ash stairs and doors and light oak flooring, do I paint skirtings and door frames white or stain them to match doors, the walls will be painted a light colour sort of buttermilk, with white ceilings.

Thanks in advance

[Newt]

Hi Jampot,

Congratulations on your new home!  It is mostly a matter of personal preference.  If you leave the natural wood and just use a clear sealer, the wood becomes part of the decor and will attract attention. I renovated my house and put in new windows, doors, frames and skirting.  I left the natural wood and found that it became too much of a statement and I wanted the furnishings and art to stand out. If you aren't certain how it will look in the grand scheme of things, leave it unpainted and see how you like the look.  You can always paint the trim and doors if you don't like the natural wood look.  A consult with an interior designer might also be an option as well.

Newt