The question
What are your feelings about painting original wood trim? My husband doesn't like the idea.
The answer
I am extremely comfortable with stripping and restaining or repainting wood. For some reason, men are not. They have this almost-religious affinity for wood.
I have had numerous discussions with male clients about their need to preserve wood; they even want to showcase gum wood, which is of worse quality than MDF. I think they believe wood has a better, more durable finish than paint – plus, it's natural.
But as most women know, natural is overrated. (I have no idea – nor do I want to know – what my natural hair colour is.) You can respect your husband's opinion, but remember that it's just an opinion.
Paint the wood trim in a high-gloss white and, if your husband gets in the way, paint him. And consult a great painter to have a proper base coat and shellac to keep any knots from showing through.
Dee Dee Taylor Eustace is an architect and interior designer. Follow her on Twitter: @ddtaylordd. Have a design dilemma? E-mail style@globeandmail.com.