Holy crap. That’s what I say to myself as I scroll through this amazing four square home of Hillary and Jim Straatman, designed by Lisa Staton and photographed by Haris Kenjar. Have you ever had that experience with inspirational images? It’s only happened to me a handful of times where something I see hits me like a ton of bricks. This is probably three tons of inspiration all at once!

As someone who has struggled with living in a space clad with historic woodwork I can appreciate how hard it is to incorporate the heaviness of dark trim with a personal aesthetic that leans modern. This design is the ultimate solution to a tricky problem. Dark woodwork, light paint with cool undertones, neutral modern furniture, textural soft fabrics, and simple elegant shapes for decor. I’m floored. I have devoured every bit of every image.

Don’t get me wrong, I am really pleased with the solution to dark woodwork that I have spent years developing (lol, I sound like such a asshat). Moody dark paints – tones so dark they become nearly neutral. They minimize the weight of the woodwork. But then I see stuff like this and I have to reconsider everything, like everything.

Since so many of you have shared with me your struggles with wood trim, I wanted to pass a long this bit of hope. Please head on over to any of these articles ( The Nordroom | Remodelista | ) that feature this beautiful, wood trimmed, Washington state 1906 foursquare. Also, Lisa Staton is insanely talented designer I mean, this bathroom is bonkers.

To see all my other dark woodwork inspiration check out my pinterest board!