more resources...
Decorating to Stay
We've all heard the tips on how to decorate to sell your home - keep colors neutral, get rid of clutter and arrange furniture to make rooms appear more spacious. But what if you don'y want to sell your home - you want to stay? How do you decorate with that in mind? Luckily, there are no rules when it comes to decorating your own home.Do Your Homework...
The first step to successful design is figuring out what you like in decor. Flip through design books and catalogs and pay attention to which types of styles you enjoy. Watch the wide variety of design shows on TV and visit model homes. Ask yourself questions like: "Is this room too formal or casual for me? Are the colors to light or too dark? Is it too busy or is there too much empty space?" These are great ways to figure out what sorts od design elements you enjoy.
Use the Web for Resources...
The internet has made research and planning easier than ever - and it is right at your fingertips!Visit "Better Homes and Gardens" online at www.bhg.com to take their decorating attitude quiz and hone in on your personal style. Also, check out their "Arrange-a-Room" page to use their home designer software. This program allows you to redecorate without ever leaving your chair. You can lay out rooms and decide how many pieces of furniture you can fit and try different ways of arranging them.
if you're looking to make product choices, turn to the online world and spend your time making decisions from the comfort of your own home istead of spending hours debating in the aisles. Many manufactures have put their entire product offerings online for customer viewing.
Whatever your choices, don't be concerned with what's trendy at the moment or what seems to please others. If you are planning to live there for a good amount of time, make decorating cjoices that will make you happy for years to come.
