Wall Paint

• Many people have neutral-colored walls that are either white, ivory, off white or light gray. There is nothing wrong with having a neutral wall, and if you like the color of it already, don't feel pressured to change it. If you are afraid to experiment with color, however, try painting just one wall, called a focus wall. If you have a very large space, you can use virtually any paint color. If your space is smaller, avoid using dark colors to prevent the room from feeling closed in.
  
  

Decorating Styles

• There are many decorating styles to choose from, and the one you pick will depend upon your personal tastes. If you like antiqued furniture, lace and floral prints, consider decorating your home in a country French style. Those who like chic simplicity, clean lines and bold patterns should aim for a contemporary look. Other decorating styles include Southwestern, shabby chic, country, rococo, neoclassical, African, rustic, Asian, art deco, Mediterranean, retro and Victorian.
  
  Alternatively, you can choose not to limit yourself to any particular decorating style and just go with what you like--by carefully choosing decorating pieces and colors, anything can be tastefully done. For example, if you like leopard print and the color lime green, it can be executed with a color scheme of lime green, mocha, ivory and gold, and mixing in solid fabrics with the leopard print.
  
  

Colors Schemes

• Color is one of the most important parts of interior decorating. From furniture and fabrics, to paintings and decorations, if the color is off, the entire look of your room will be off. Certain themes demand specific color palettes, and the same goes for particular decorating styles.
  
  For example, when decorating in a contemporary style, you should aim for a neutral color palette with a punch of color. Using pastels would not work well for contemporary décor.
  
  Here are a few color schemes to consider: navy blue, white, gold and cherry red work well for a nautical theme; cornflower blue, ivory, white and yellow work well for a country French look; use colors such as sage green, ecru, rose pink and white if you're going for shabby chic; black, white and cobalt blue is a good contemporary color combination; burgundy, gold, emerald green, amber and amethyst will give your room a regal, warm feeling.
  
  

Organization

• Without organization, your space will look cluttered, which will throw off all of the decorative elements in it. To help yourself keep organized, designate specific areas for things that are likely to get thrown around. For example, if you know you are likely to put your keys or mail on the entryway table, put a decorative bowl there to hold these items, so they're not just laying around in plain site. If you have a tendency to leave your magazines laying on the coffee table, get one that has a hidden storage drawer or opt for an ottoman with inside storage so you can easily put your magazines away.