Design Hints

A New Take on Primitive

Kimberly Smith-Johnson, a Quakertown, Pennsylvania, resident and owner of a home decorating business, says, "I like to put a modern twist on country style. I like to mix primitive and country." Her dining room embodies this philosophy and features bold colors, traditional furniture and unique displays. To transform your dining room into a prim entertaining space, consider Kimberly’s five decorating tips:

Decorating Hints

  • - Install a chair rail to divide two contrasting hues. Paint the wall above the molding mustard yellow and the wall beneath the molding black.
  • - Suspend a primitive-style chandelier 30 inches above the table to balance natural and artificial lighting.
  • - Distinguish the space with an oak pedestal dining table, Windsor chairs and a rustic sideboard.
  • - Dress the windows with drapes that feature primitive-inspired patterns such as gingham or buffalo checks. Echo the textiles' colors with a rectangular braided rug and coordinating chair pads.
  • - Use a metal shelf positioned close to the ceiling to exhibit accessories and artwork. Install another shelf above a bay window to offer even more display space for figurines and meaningful signs.

Written by Cheryl Hackett
Photographed by Gridley + Graves