Hi! I think I commented on your last post, but looks like you updated here with more photos. Congratulations on your Blue Ridge house! What a gorgeous area you are in. I recommend swapping out the countertops and backsplash with carrara marble. I've attached a photo that will look similar, although IMO white countertops are even better than the ones in the image. Also consider painting the walls throughout BM White. They look a little beigey which might be contributing to the dark, heavy feel.

Thanks for the tips

And comments

Some people think stained wood is sacred! I'm not one of them and would have no issues with painting some of that wood to lighten/brighten up the space.

IMO too much wood for me but begin by changing all the lighting everywhere to LED 4000K that will help brighten the space up. I hate that skimpy ceiling trim I would remove all of it IMO it does not work with the rest of the very nice trim. The owners furniture just really adds way to much brown to an already brown space . Huge light colored rugs and light colored furniture will help a lot you might even introduce some glass tables . I agree a different counter but not cararra IMO in that house. I don’t have an issue with painting wood but I honestly do not see that as an option in that space so white walls will help the new lighting and then see what would be appropriate for the kichen counters

Looks like I’m on the right track. My furniture is white and has already made an improvement but there’s more to do. Thanks for the candidate feedback.

Ashleigh, What specific BM White? There are A LOT?! 😉

Maybe looking at a home we designed will aid you with your dilemma.

Alpine Ski Home · More Info

Alpine Ski Home · More Info

Alpine Ski Home · More Info

^^ Oh now that just makes my heart sing - Spectacular!

What about reducing the wood by removing the panels?

I like the glass table idea that was suggested and the counter top!

Hi Sylina-

Beautiful house!

I agree with Patricia about changing the light bulbs, that will definitely lighten and brighten the house because all the wood has a very honey/amber cast.

You don't have to have a glass dining table, I just don't know if the dining table that is there now harmonizes with the rest of the house.

The other thing is, do you need that table there? Is there another dining area? If so, maybe you don't need a table in that area at all and you can use that area as a sort of lounge and put in two comfortable chairs such as club chairs with an ottoman and an end table between them so you can relax with a cuppa while something is in the oven.

What is in that mirrored cabinet in the kitchen that you want to get rid of?

I do like the dark countertops that are in the kitchen, they go very well with the wood and the rustic feel.

The backsplashes don't work well, though, and you can replace them for something that works better.

Carrara marble is a nightmare to maintain, and unless you and your family are compulsively neat, or the opposite, won't care at all about the marble staining and etching, carrara marble on kitchen counters and island are a mistake.

I would get rid of so many floor rugs, they are drab and don't add anything to the decor, and are a huge tripping hazard.

If you like the Oriental rug look (I do) get one with strong colors, either a Persian or Caucasus or nomadic. Or you can a modern rug with strong clear clears. Either way, strong bright colors will brighten your rooms right up.

Thanks for the tips. The cabinet, table, and rugs were from the listing pictures, so all are gone. I would love to leave that space open, but there isn’t a secondary space.

I glad to get the precautions on the counter tops. I do believe I’ll stay away from them.