9 Do it Yourself Interior Decorating Tips
from Paula Hobbs

Do place the center of artwork approximately 60” from the floor. Using this rule of thumb should keep you from placing most of your pieces too high. If you are creating a grouping, use this rule for the largest key piece, and then spread out from there.

Do use this as a general rule of thumb -- cover 2/3 of the width of the wall to be decorated with art or decorative objects. This applies to wall space over furniture and blank walls. If you do not have a single piece of art that is large enough, then try grouping several items and pictures together to fill the appropriate space.

Do be realistic about the room size and furniture needed. Consider moving some of the furniture off the walls and into the room space. This will create interesting seating arrangements and maximize the available space in many rooms.

Do a test of paint samples in your home before you spend a large amount of time and money on the project. I have seen so many people over the years who have been disappointed with their paint color choices. They almost always choose a color from a paint chip and begin painting. By the time they have finished most of the paint project, they discover it’s too dark, light, or totally wrong. This problem can be entirely and completely eliminated. Even though it will require a little effort and minimal expense, the trade off is immense.

Buy the smallest amount of paint available for testing. Paint an area approximately 2 feet x 2 feet on the darkest wall (usually the wall with windows) and the lightest wall (usually the wall opposite the windows). Live with the sample for a couple of days to be sure you’re on the right track. If you’re happy with the paint shade, then proceed. If you are not happy, reselect and test again in the same manner. Use this same testing technique for exterior paint choices as well. The sunlight and time of day will play tricks on the exterior colors. View your test sample from all angles and times of the day for the best results.

Do mix sizes, scale and textures. This is the key to good accessorizing. Vary the heights of objects to be used together to create a staggered height, usually working with an odd number of items. Plants and greenery help to break up heights and add texture. Stacking books can be a great pedestal for a small item and will add height to your vignette. Use these simple techniques and available items in your home to help you get the most from your possessions. You don’t always have to buy the perfect thing!! These tips will help you stretch your accessory dollar.

Do use lamps that are approximately 28 to 32 inches tall for end tables and nightstands. There are certainly exceptions depending on the lamp style, but use this as the general guideline. A dresser top lamp in an adult room will require a height of 20 to 24 inches. Again, the lamp style (typically candlestick styles will be considerably taller) should be considered. Smaller lamps can be used on children’s dresser tops and night stands. However, try to keep these suggestions in mind and downsize as needed for the room.

Do start your projects with a key/inspiration item (a print fabric, art, area rug, bedding ensemble, wallpaper etc.) that has the color combination you love and provides you several to work with. This will set the color scheme for each room. You must balance your decorating colors and patterns throughout your room, just as you would balance your jewelry colors to your clothing and shoes. Allow one color from the key/inspiration item to dominate in each room. Pull the second, third, and other colors in as support and accents. Use these colors in each area of the room in smaller doses. A common rule of thumb is: approximately 60% for the main dominant color and 20% for the next two colors in your scheme for each room. Additional colors can be used sparingly, remembering to balance them throughout. In additional rooms of your home, consider reversing the formula. In other words, the colors used in the 20% content will be switched to the dominant color (60%). Simply continue rotating the colors in this manor throughout your home for continuity.
 

Do not forget to add your families’ treasures and pictures to your decor for Personality!

Do use your family’s treasures around your home to reflect everyone’s interest and hobbies. Your home and individual rooms should reflect your families’ taste and lifestyle. Display family photos on walls and table tops for a personal touch... frame your children’s drawings for a special wall, display your family heirlooms proudly, and use your travel souvenirs for theme rooms and accessories. Soon your families’ personality will emerge and supply you with endless possibilities for decorating your home!
 

Do not ignore the special architectural features in your home.

Do enhance your home décor by emphasizing the character and special features of your home. Every home will have something unique about it. It may be an angled wall, skylights, transom windows, pot shelves, beautiful fireplaces, special built-ins, wonderful floors, gorgeous wall textures or handsome moldings to name a few. Place your furniture in arrangements that will complement the room’s space. Use the architectural features as assets to accentuate your decorating.