Oh I love a house with a bit of original retro style! The timber panelling was originally done as a feature, but with the colour of the orange brick it all blends together too much.

I wouldn't paint it, but I would give it a good clean, as it probably has decades of smoke and tobacco. Depending on the condition of the original varnish you may also consider giving it light sand by hand and refinishing it to bring out that wonderful honey glow that nicely stained timber has.

It looks like the fireplace recess will never be used as fireplace again (as it is carpeted) so I would be looking to differentiate the colour of the brickwork to the timber, perhaps with a stone finish, maybe a warm slate, which will be in keeping with the period of your home.

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Dr Retro

of Dr Retro House Calls

You could consider painting the timber paneling to match your wall colour, and paint the brick fireplace surround - possibly a dark grey and either retain timber mantle or paint it glossy white to match shutters.

Do you like your wall colour or do you want to change it?

No paint. Move the air con. Clean the timber and brick and introduce some psychadelic artwork. Embrace the 60's

As much as I love retro, I think I would paint the timber white to flow with your windows and shutters. By doing this you could get away without having to move the aircon, a big wall hanging to the R/H would help balance the wall. and tile the interior of the fireplace with encaustic style tiles and add a basket for toys etc. think colours like this

We recently painted some old 'had it' timber panelling white in one of our spare bedrooms and it really brings a whole new life, freshness and character to the space - and obviously was the most cost effective choice for us as we prepare to sell... perhaps painting that timber panelling white will 'ignite that spark' as per Siri's photo of a white wall and mantel surrounding that beautiful brick fireplace?

I love the timber panelling, maybe with a bit of a clean it will look a bit lighter, but in any case, I love it!

I actually think some lighter flooring would make the room work better - not what you were asking about I know! The current flooring being dark and matte sucks a lot of the light out of the room and also makes the timber panelling/fireplace feel heavier. Even a lighter rug (or even a fun Ikea Stockholm rug?) could make it look more crisp, fresh and stylish, whilst still giving a nod to your home's gorgeous retro features. A fresher light fitting - maybe a simple drum style?) would make it look more modern also and less busy to allow the original features to be the focus. Your existing armchair etc suit it beautifully though!

The fireplace I'm not sure about - I hate to ruin original features but I'm not sure about that?! Maybe wiht the other changes done it might work much better anyway? Otherwise an interesting tile or sandstone cladding could work beautifully with the timber tones?

You can leave the paneling but make it white washed or weathered, so it is up-to-date. Some kind of

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