Decorating Idea Book

Creativity doesn't have a price tag, which you'll find proven -- time and time again -- within the pages of this book. Its filled with information and inspiration, taking you step-by-step through the decorating process, from finding your personal style to selecting the right accessories.

Decorating is an evolution, a never-ending process. Styles change. Tastes change. Even families change. Through it all, you'll want to keep this book close at hand, guiding you along the way.

Introduction

Chapter 1: The Comforts of Home
The Big Picture
Sharpening Your Vision
Decorating Decisions

Chapter 2: Color
Picking a Palette
Setting the Mood
Incorporating Color

Chapter 3: Furniture
Sofas
Chairs
Tables
Beds
Desks

Chapter 4: Room Arrangements
The Entry
The Family Room
The Great Room
The Living Room
The Dining Room
The Bedroom

Chapter 5: Window Treatments
Draperies
Blinds and Shades
Shutters

Chapter 6: Wall Coverings
Paint
Wallpaper
Tile
Fabric
The Fifth Wall

Chapter 7: Floor Coverings
Carpet
Hardwoods
Resilient Flooring
Non-resilient Flooring

Chapter 8: Storage Solutions
Chests
Armoires
Entertainment Centers
Dressers and Nightstands
China Cabinets
Sideboards and Buffets
Display Units
Freestanding Storage
Built-Ins

Chapter 9: Lighting
Ambient Lighting
Task Lighting
Accent Lighting

Chapter 10: Decorative Accessories
Wall Art
Collectibles
Mantels
Soft Stuff

I am one of the lucky ones. I managed to "follow my bliss" before it was fashionable. As far back as I can remember, I have been fascinated by decorating. Even during grammar school days, I would look forward to the falling leaves of autumn, not because I could create piles to jump into, like my brother did. Instead, I used them to build the "walls" of my dream house, the "floor plan" laid out in my own back yard.

It was a passion that never disappeared, so it was no surprise to anyone that I studied interior design in college. But just as I was about to walk away from those hallowed halls, degree in hand, I had a brainstorm. Writing was another great interest of mine, so why not combine the two? I did a little "redesigning" of my course load and eventually walked away with a double major in interior design and journalism.

Over the years Ive had the pleasure of writing about grand homes as well as those decorated on a dime. And theres really no difference. Creativity doesn't have a price tag, which you'll find proven -- time and time again -- within the pages of this book. Its filled with information and inspiration, taking you step-by-step through the decorating process, from finding your personal style to selecting the right accessories.

Decorating is an evolution, a never-ending process. Styles change. Tastes change. Even families change. Through it all, you'll want to keep this book close at hand, guiding you along the way. Even if I hadn't written Taunton's Decorating Idea Book Id want it on my bookshelves. I'm glad you feel the same way.