From Everyday to Elegant: Decorating on a Budget

When embarking on a home decorating project, think of the big picture first, but try not to become overwhelmed. Saturate yourself with free ideas to help you find your inspiration, set your priorities, and then begin with one room at a time.

What's the best way to begin? Choose an element of the room to highlight as a focal point, hunt down some good-quality (but reasonably priced) furniture to fill the room, and don't be shy with your wall color or afraid to mix old and new when filling your space with accessories. This is your space so make it reflect your essence! Before long you will have created a room within your budget—one that you can be proud of and enjoy for years to come.

Before beginning your design or redecoration project, try to think of how your house flows from one room to the next. This concept of "Architectural Enfilade," how one room flows seamlessly into another forming a cohesive whole, is often employed by interior designers.

Lighting can make or break even the best designed rooms. To make the most of your home and its design, consider the following three key lighting points and try to employ each in your new room design:

1. Ambient lighting infuses a room and gives an overall glow.
2. Task lighting provides light for specific activities and areas, such as under-cabinet kitchen lighting.
3. Sparkle or spotlights show-off artwork or reflect light.

Armed with these few tips, you're ready to think like a designer and tackle renovating or redecorating your home! But, to truly think like a designer, you must also be able to recognize your own limitations. If you are facing major home renovations you should consider hiring a professional interior designer. (In most states designers have completed a degree program and are licensed to practice, so they are prepared to face more complex projects.)