David Bromstad's Advice For A Craftsman-Style Home Makeover Isn't For Everyone

Designer David Bromstad helps recent lottery winners find the luxurious properties they've always longed for on HGTV's "My Lottery Dream Home." During showings, he often provides clients with advice on how to upgrade the homes. However, the guidance can be hit or miss for some.

Bromstad shared a particularly controversial recommendation on Season 6, Episode 6 of the show. The interior designer advised that a couple, who was viewing a craftsman-style home, should cover the original dark woodwork and wooden coffered ceilings with white paint. This transformation certainly isn't for everyone, as much of the appeal of a craftsman-style house is the use of exposed natural materials throughout the interior.

Covering exposed wood with white paint takes away some of the charm of this common house style. Although the couple featured on the "My Lottery Dream Home" episode did not disagree with Bromstad's advice, it is sure to frustrate some viewers. On the other hand, those who favor modernity and bright, open spaces may see the value in hiding the dark woodwork behind a few coats of white paint.

If you are utterly confused by David Bromstad's advice, his reasoning behind the recommendation might help you understand where he's coming from. The HGTV star explained why he would cover up the exposed wood in a YouTube clip of the aforementioned "My Lottery Dream Home" episode. "I would paint it a nice white color," he shared with the couple viewing the home. "What it does is it brightens and lifts the entire aesthetic of the house by not taking away from the original beauty that it has to offer."

This design choice will likely resonate with those who would prefer to make an old craftsman-style home feel brighter and more upscale. However, if you are not a fan of hiding classic elements — like the bare interior woodwork shown in the clip — this tip might just not be for you.

Still, you should know that it's totally possible to make a dated craftsman-style home feel more modern without eliminating that charm and character. For example, you may want to consider painting the walls a pure white or off white. This will make the home feel airy, open, and modern without hiding any stunning woodwork. It's also helpful to switch out old hardware, like drawer and cabinet handles, with more modern pieces Upgrading outdated kitchen cabinets with something more timeless is a great idea as well.