Saturday, March 20, 2010

Architectural inspiration: white-washed wood ceilings and walls

I live in a cottage that has a lot of wood, as you may have seen from previous posts. It was years before I was able to convince my husband to allow me to paint it. I once read a quote in a magazine that said something along the lines that wood, for men, is sacred; and I believe that to be true. But I finally was permitted to work some magic with my paintbrush, there has been no stopping me. Having wood walls is great for sound containment and for arranging art. You don't need to have a stud-finder and limit yourself to sinking supports deep into the framing in order to support heavier pieces, and any holes are easily filled with paintable wood putty. Perhaps the best thing, however, is the gorgeous texture they provide. There really is nothing else like it.

I scoured my files for rooms that would demonstrate the wonderful texture of painted wood on walls and celings. Come take a peek and see what I mean.

image: costal living
Along with the all white-palette, I find the repetition of lines in the flooring and wall boards to be visually soothing. The furnishings are sparse and non-fussy, perfect for summertime living.

image: cottage living
This entry way has the feel of a porch, with all its painted wood. The blurring of indoor and outdoor spaces, often found in casual beach cottages, inspires a carefree attitude. The dark wood column becomes a sculpture in this all white space.


image: country living
This bedroom has several different textures. A ceiling such as this one sets a tone for other textures to come into play. The wicker chair and ottoman add a casual note. The potted palm evokes the tropics. Notice how the bedding is kept plain to let the architecture stand out.


image: costal living
This entire space is covered in white-washed wood. The exposed floor joists add such great depth to the ceiling. See how the wood tones look so warm against the flat white painted surfaces. Accents from nature increase the organic vibe.


image: house 2 home
All the textures in this room, from the sisal rug to the wicker to the floor joists, keep it feeling warm and casual. Pale sage green walls looks great with the color of the wicker and the gray sofa. The dual coffee tables add an unexpected touch. The uber-plush sofa looks nap-worthy. Contrast comes from the black chair.


image: house 2 home
In this room, the line and texture are of the wood are quite evident. It lengthens the space and draws the eye forward. The worn leather chair and wood table add some masculine notes to this otherwise girly space.


image: house 2 home
The organic feel of this room is fostered by the variety of textural and natural materials. The serenity of this space is unparalleled. Accents are minimal. The throw and pillows add subtle pattern. Multiple sets of french doors divide the space from other rooms in the house. This has got to be one of my favorite rooms!
I hope you have enjoyed this tour of wood-encased rooms. You can't beat wood, whether planked, paneled, or tongue-and-groove boards, for the casual texture it adds to your home.
Until next time...
Anne

10 comments:

  1. Hello Anne,
    Thanks so much for this post. I found you searching for whitewash on wood walls! I live in an older log home (round logs in and out) with an open floor plan. I would like to brighten the interior up and have thought about whitewashing I have never seen rounded logs painted in this way, and am a little timid as once I start, there won't be any turning back (open plan, inability to undo painting). If you know of any images/sources for this type of treatment, I'd be grateful if you would pass them on. Also, I'd be interested in your thoughts on this idea (if it's a go, do I do ceilings and floors as well?) Thanks for any thoughts and advice. Jen at Merry Mischief Acres

    ReplyDelete
  2. Jen, I am having trouble finding you. Your profile is not accessible, and when I type merry mischief acres @ blogspot, nothing comes up. I hope you get this response.

    I haven't seen round logs painted either, but that doesn't mean it wouldn't look great. How dark are they at present? My inclination would be to paint the walls and then decide about the ceilings and floor. In an open floor plan, painting just the walls may be enough to give you the lightness you are seeking. Natural wood floors are good for grounding a space when everything else is painted white. I prefer ceilings to be painted, but you may want to go at it one step at a time to avoid committing to something that cannot be undone. If I come across any images that show painted logs, I will let you know-- as long as you let me know how to send them your way.

    Thanks for stopping by and for leaving a comment. I am flattered that you asked for my advice. Nice to meet you!

    Anne

    ReplyDelete
  3. Hi Anne,
    I checked back and was so happy to receive your suggestions! I think I will start with the kitchen area which has a large horizontal beam overhead "separating" it visually from the connected dining area. I agree about painting in increments rather than committing to a whole paint job all at once. I am also thinking of using white wash rather than opaque paint as a way of "honoring" the logs rather than trying to disguise them. If you have any further suggestions or photos, please send them along. I have a month off in July/Aug. and will try to tackle it then. I will certainly take before and after pics, and if it interests you I can send to you. I can be reached directly at goatgal13@gmail.com. Thanks again so much. Jen at Merry Mischief Acres

    ReplyDelete
  4. Hi Anne
    I live in Whitehorse, Yukon and am interested in the neutral palette. Your site inspires. Have you ever worked with light cream and white? Finding just the right cream can be challenging(not yellowy or pinky). Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Lynda

    ReplyDelete
  5. My favorite white is Summer White by Sherwin Williams. It is a little creamy but still crisp and looks great in all types of light. Good luck in your search for the perfect white!

    ReplyDelete
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  10. Every home has architectural features that can be enhanced or diminished by artwork. Knowing how to make the most of your home's architecture will help you create a stunning art display that brings out the best in your artwork and your room. 14 Architectural Photos That Will Make You Look At Buildings Differently

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