How can I modernize my old-fashioned dining room with wallpaper on top, white paint on the bottom, and layers of paint covering the original hardwood floor, measuring 17 ft by 11?
Asked by Laurie Garcia 
2 months ago
Last Updated: September 27, 2024
I’m brainstorming ideas for this room. Right now, there’s wallpaper up top and plain white paint on the bottom. The floor has the original hardwood, but it’s covered in layers of paint. It’s a dining room, but it feels pretty old-fashioned to me. I’m thinking about giving it a more modern look. It’s about 17 feet by 11 feet in size.
I recommend not scraping that paint, as it may contain lead.
We are actually having it tested for lead, that was my first concern. That’s why I’m hesitant about sanding it down.
Putting engineered wood on top would be a more cost-effective solution.
Removing wallpaper and painting all the trim in white will give it a more modern look. After that, you can personalize it with your own color scheme and vibe.
Chair rail taken off and replaced with thicker trim around the windows, doors, and baseboard. Removing wallpaper is not the worst thing to do. I’d suggest taking it down and either texturing or smoothing the walls. Repaint in the color of your choice. If dealing with the floor seems like too much, there are tools you can rent to sand it down, or opt for a nice laminate.
I’m not sure about your budget. If this were my room, I would completely redo everything and focus the most on the flooring.
For the floor – consider either vinyl or porcelain tile/wood look depending on your budget.
Remove all wall trim.
Replace baseboards with a modern, flat 8″ design.
Remove wallpaper from walls and repaint – choose one feature wall for textured wall tiles, shiplap, or textured porcelain tiles (like faux brick or stone).
Opt for simple 1-panel floor-to-ceiling windows with a vertical pole or wooden valance for added drama.
Update the lighting fixture.
The flooring would be the biggest expense, but the overall room renovation wouldn’t cost that much.