This is the first in a series I’ll do about decorating a room.  One of the most important things I do is think about the function of a room…

• What is the room’s function going to be?
• Will there be food consumed in the room?
• Is this a private (bedroom) or public (living or family room)?
• Do you have furniture or items such as a TV or piano that must be in the room?
• Are there architectural things in the room that must remain? (fireplace, beadboard trim, large windows)?

Then comes the fun part…decorating…are you traditional? beachy? country? modern? mid-century? All of the above?  You can decorate your room in elements of each or just stick to one and have a great space.

After you have answered these questions in your mind, let your imagination and creativity take over. What, you say you don’t have any or don’t know where to begin?  You can begin by watching decorating shows on HGTV, clipping interesting rooms/things in magazines (Better Homes and Gardens is one of my favs!) or just by browsing the internet.

Once you’ve determined the function of your room and have some idea of the style…next on the list is the all-important (at least to me) focal point…the jump off point to a personally unique room.

If you don’t believe in function over form, then consider the plight of someone who might choose a white carpet in a high traffic family room off their backyard (and add a dog in for good measure!)