Whether designing a brand new home or updating an old one, the vast array of choices and decisions can be overwhelming. This book is a clever portable guidebook to help novice designers and decorators pull together their plans and design dream homes. Packed with fresh ideas, this book contains beautiful, full-color images of professionally designed interiors, as well as handy, roll-up-your-sleeves workbook sections for everything from the big picture (assessing what you have and considering whether to add or refurbish) to checking off the small but critical details (how to choose paints, fabrics, and layouts). Chapters target getting started, as well as design specifics for walls, windows, living rooms, bedrooms, and more. Advice and creative direction help organize everything from timetables to plans of action. A special section, "Advice from the Professionals," offers tips on working like a professional interior designer. For home decorators of all tastes and skill levels, this handy sourcebook provides inspiration, direction, and organization for projects large and small.