Do select quality materials for establishing the fundamentals of your home. When making decisions on flooring, furnishings, cabinetry and carpentry, be mindful of your choices being the framework of the room. Skimping on quality when it comes to materials and craftsmanship will likely produce future problems-oftentimes expensive to repair or replace.
	Do choose colors that make you happy, comfortable and relaxed. Too often, we are enticed into thinking that trendy color selections will withstand the test of time. Not always true. A color may pique your interest initially, but after some casual co-existence, you may determine it to be an irritant to the room. It is best to work bolder, more experimental colors into accessories and transitional items which can be more easily altered or replaced.
	Don't rule out the use of contrasting paint colors in a room. Accenting walls can be an inexpensive means of adding artistic and interesting abstract expression to a space. Offset colors can be effectively used to "lighten and brighten" the mood of a room or to add dramatic impact.
	Don't dismiss the idea of mixing up the elements in a room. Key to interesting design is the "building and blending" of fabrics, textures, patterns, furnishings, accents and art.
	Do factor in the natural light available to the area or space of emphasis. Consider during different seasons how summer's shade might impact a room or how the days of winter might affect a color's intensity. Work to integrate nature into your home and to visually extend your living space well beyond the windows and walls.

		Do take breaks from your decorating ventures. A respite is helpful in determining what elements of the room yield the most enjoyment and will help bring about a fresh perspective and approach. Taking the time to "establish a relationship" with the room in terms of focal points, traffic patterns and comfort zones will help in streamlining the overall strategy of the project.
		Do treat lighting as both a functional and aesthetically fundamental part of your project. Although lighting is often thought of more in terms of "utilitarian fixturing," it is also key to giving the space a warm, inviting and cohesive flow. Allow for additional lighting in spaces such as kitchens, bathrooms and work areas where natural light may be less abundant.
		Don't restrict and/or limit your design initiatives to what is visible at eye-level. With today's architecture featuring higher ceilings, try developing ways of tying the ceiling to the floor by utilizing the space between, creating a feeling of "inclusiveness."

	Do work toward the goal of continuity in design and decor within your home. Although it is vital for each room to have its own unique character, it is equally important to incorporate into the space, a particular element that lends some flow from one room to another. Continuity will enhance the living space by giving it a sense of "belonging" and will thereby visually extend the eye, giving the entire area a larger feel.
	Do take chances with design. Find an item of inspiration that helps guide the room's direction, interest and impact. Whether it aids in determining the color palette for paint or implements a broad-based plan for future projects, it will help you in pulling ideas and concepts together. Search for elements to add to your room that reflect your personality and nature-after all, it is YOUR room.
	Don't feel the need to rush your project. Design done well takes planning and perseverance, along with a discerning eye on the lookout for that certain element that will enhance and accentuate the space.

		When placing/hanging artwork, don't assume that any wall-if large enough-will do the job. Look for wall space that "fits the piece." Groupings and similar elements can be brought together to create interesting focal points which are easily supported by larger, more expansive wall spaces.
		Don't forego the addition of plants, greenery, topiaries and the like in completing your project. Aside from their aesthetic influence, they will bring a sense of life, freshness and vibrancy to your room.
		Do have fun with your project. With the help of a competent design consultant, you can open yourself to new ideas and fascinating concepts, sure to enhance your living space and lifestyle.