¶      When thinking about re-doing a room, bear in mind that in many ways what you are seeking is balance. This doesn't mean that you have to have a candlestick on either end of a mantelpiece; instead, it means you should look for a balance of light and dark, big and small, and patterned and plain. For example, consider a floral-print loveseat with solid throw pillows and striped curtains, all in the same color scheme.

¶      If your room has a long sofa, you'll want a task lamp on either end, for reading, sewing, or other close work. Considering the function of the task lighting will also help the overall look of a room: think of how an easy chair standing alone in a corner will look, but if you were to place a floor lamp or a small table with a table lamp next to it, you'll create a separate seating corner, not just take care of the practical need to lighting the area.

¶      To help create distinctive areas in a large room, use area rugs; just make sure the colors look fabulous together, and don't use rugs of the same size. Vary the scale of the pattern and the design, but aim to have some colors in common between the rugs.

¶      To pull the look of a room together, consider uniting window treatments and throw pillows. This can be an easy and inexpensive way to bring more harmony to a living room.