If you download a lot that has items that you don't have the EP for, will they simply not show up or will it damage the game?

I ask because I see alot of cute houses with Generations, which I don't want to buy, I don't mind a little redecorating if the structure is intact.

I do understand if something is essential to the lot, the game won't work it. Like downloading a tomb if you don't have WA or a consignment shop if you don't have Ambitions or an apartment if you don't have LN, but I'm curious about common residential lots.

Thanks

The only things that came with generations that could possibly give you trouble is the spiral staircases. I'm not sure whether they were added to the patch like the basements were. If not, I'm not sure what would replace them. The only build items other than the stair cases would be a couple of wall papers and possibly a floor or two. Most of the items from gen. are in buy mode and are easily replaced.