Simplify, simplify, simplify. Then you can let the knotty pine shine. In knotty pine rooms, keep wall hangings/art simple. Hang only a few carefully selected pieces so that they are truly noticed.

The space, your basic '60s rumpus room, has knotty pine paneling; a concrete floor covered with worn, red carpeting; one tiny, high window; and a back door that opens to a brick retaining wall.

Q. Years ago, I opened an in-home child-care program. I had to treat my old knotty pine paneling with fire retardant. It used to be a beautiful accent in my beach cottage home. Now the finish on ...

In recent years, nostalgia has been the dominating force in the world of interior design. Whether it’s vintage decorating trends making a comeback (hello, knotty pine paneling) or the newfound ...