Before the redesign, dark red walls made a cluttered, depressing dining space appear darker.

After moving the kitchen to a more centrally-located area, lightening the wall color was the first step to creating a more uplifting and charming atmosphere. Traditional details, like the plaster crown molding which was carefully recreated and the pine wood flooring add character to the home.

French doors, not shown here, allow plenty of light to cover the kitchen, making it a space that the family enjoys cooking, cleaning and even dining in. A smart mix of natural, ambient and task lighting makes the room more functional for both working and entertaining.

A four-person dining table is set against an attention-grabbing feature wall covered in bright green wallpaper, a fun pop of color that really gives the room an extra-special touch, while also subtly setting the dining space off from the rest of the kitchen.