Decorating a room is like any other complex project. It's best to start with a plan and take it one step at a time. The tighter your budget, the more important it is to stick to your plan. A professional interior decorator can help you allocate your decorating dollars wisely; spending more where it counts and economizing where it doesn't!

First things first! Before you make your plan, you should decide what items you will keep and what will be replaced or refurbished. Take a careful look at your walls and floors. Then discuss your priorities with your decorator. If the walls look dingy and the carpet is worn, putting a beautiful new sofa in the room will only make it look shabbier.

Next, discuss your color preferences with you decorator. Confused about selecting your color scheme? Take a look around your home. Many times, decorators have designed whole rooms around a client's favorite china pattern, or floral arrangement; or perhaps even an area rug. Finding the right color scheme is vitally important to your overall project. And with today's open floor plans, color planning is critical to not just one room but all the rooms in your home.

Once you've locked in your color scheme, it's time to discuss your overall floor plan with your chosen design professional. Consider the scale and placement of furniture, and the balance of color and pattern in your room. Remember that patterned fabric should be repeated and an accent color should be carefully placed around the room. Accent colors are vital to creating visual movement in any room décor!

When your basic decorating plan has been established, it's now time to consider the importance of window treatments. Window treatments can truly be the focal point of any room - and by carefully planning just the right design, the end result promises to be absolutely spectacular.

Next, consider the proper lighting for the mood you've created in your new room - and let's not forget those every important accessories. Accessories can be likened to a wonderfully delicious dessert after a fabulous meal. They add spark and personality to your finished room - an excellent way for you to express your lifestyle.

Fulfilling all your decorating dreams and desires at one time might not be possible. Sometimes it takes a little longer, but in the meantime you can live comfortably and happily in a beautiful room if you plan wisely. A professional decorator can be invaluable when it comes to helping you make your fondest decorating dreams reality!

INTERIORS by Decorating Den can help you with any of your decorating needs. Call Mishanna Rischar at 805.525.9800 for your complimentary in-home consultation.