A Global Inspired Dining Room

A new crystal chandelier, books and collections 
of a world traveler led to an eclectic dining room makeover.

If you grew up in an american home built in the first half of the 20th century chances are you've seen this gem of a patriotic wall covering. I recall my childhood friend's mom cursing while removing this wall covering for days from their upstairs bathroom.

Luckily, for this renovation we were able to just take down the walls. I'm all for patriotism but this eagle needed to be laid to rest.  It was a heartfelt renovation because after years of painting and rearranging this house against the owner's wishes, this time I was asked to help. After doing her own kitchen fluff and buff, with snide remarks of "you do know what I do for a living, right?" my mom finally succumb. She handed over her dining room to my crew while she climbed Machu Picchu and hung out in the jungle, true story. 

Typical upgrades for a home of this time period were needed.
Insulation, windows, floor leveling & refinishing, 

One of my main concerns was taking the smile out of the overloaded bookshelf and paring down the collection of books and decorative items to make space for the eye to move around the room. Adding crown molding and creating a soffit and adding crown molding to the book case make it look like it's always been there.

Without molding it looks like the afterthought

Can you see the smile now?

This crystal chandelier was a steel and it's the now sets a beautiful glow across the room. Casting a warm elegance over the antiques and items from the wanderers' travels. 

We intentionally left the trim work it's natural color to compliment and balance with the differing wood tones of the furniture. A custom stain in of ebony & honey lay the groundwork for a collection of oriental rugs. If your floors look the before pictures here - you're in for some back breaking labor to get the poly of the floor. Rent a machine and get extra sand paper. Then get more sand paper & a palm sander. Be sure to treat the wood before finishing. It will be beyond thirsty. 

Be sure to treat the wood before finishing with poly. It will be beyond thirsty. 

A table setting of books, china and glassware made a welcome home gift. 

We intentionally left the trim work it's natural color to
compliment and balance with the differing wood tones of the furniture. 

Dressing the walls and tying in the details including wall color, 

furniture, accessorizing and tricking the eye for the uneven house to come. 

Check back monthly to see how more is more in the world of electric and boho chic styling.