DIY Network

We have a ranch and are in the process of remodeling. I want to trim and doors the house in white because it would bring more light into the living space.My wife wants to trim in oak or stain pine to match the hardwood floor. I feel that it would "darken" the interior if we did this.Any thoughts ideas would be appreciated.

Well, Randy, the last thing I want to do is come between a husband and wife but I will say this. White trim is far more appealing to most home buyers, unless you're looking at a log home...then the rules change.

In a ranch home you don't have a lot of architectural details in most cases so extra deep trim in a creamy white (we used Swiss Coffee) could really help to bring out your wall color and create interest. We went to a molding shop instead of to a big box store and were amazed at how much nicer the trim was...and for less money!

Many people here in the midwest still love stained trim but young buyers tend to shy away from it, opting for white trim instead.

Good luck with your choices!

Thanks Mary, May I ask if you get your paint at a particular store? I would like to get a sample and paint some trim to see what it looks like.I think you're correct that if we go with a warmer white then things should look ok.

Swiss Coffee is a Benjamin Moore color but we use Sherwin Williams for everything. Just go into the store and tell the tech the color you want and the original manufacturer's name. They have color charts that convert any hue so they can color match.

I'll post a picture so you can get the idea. The wall color is a Porter paint called Newport Beige.

Thanks Mary! That's exactly what I like. But....(there's always a but in a marriage) Our bedroom is pumpkin orange ( yes you heard me) with walnut stained trim. My wife said a white door opening into our bedroom would look terrible. I tried..but Im paying my kids off to suggest they tell their mother that white would look so much cleaner, brighter and a better resale item. Thanks for your help and keep cool in St. Louis.

Oh yeah, nothing is more important than a happy wife!

Pumpkin orange is very much in style right now, by the way, just not my thing.

Pick your battles, Randy!

Maybe photos would do more to convince your wife. You could search some sites to get examples of what you like. I saw some nice before and afters at this site. Blessings Interiors

Check out Home Depot and Lowes Web site.
Both have a interactive web site that will allow you see the colors you choose on the walls. With Behr paint (Home Depot) you can down load a picture of your room so you can see what it will look like.

A happy wife makes a happy life!!!