Put ideas into practice when redecorating
BY ROSEMARY SADEZ FRIEDMANN Santa Rosa Co. Extension Office

When it comes time to decorate, whether starting from scratch or face-lifting the existing abode, one of the first things you will want to do is collect those things you really like and want to keep for the rest of your life.

Once you've done this, it is time to go shopping. Here is where you need to practice patience. If you are going to hire a designer, you might be fortunate enough to find someone that hones in on your tastes so perfectly that in the first presentation, you will be pleased with the entire package as is, or perhaps with just a few minor changes.

If you are attempting this flight solo, you might need a good dose of optimism. Shopping for the right wallpaper could take months -- and I am not exaggerating. We are fortunate to be surrounded by an abundance of choices, but this same abundance could be mind-boggling.

It will take time to sort through the volumes of catalogues available, so try to keep a positive attitude. When the right thing flashes in front of your eyes, you will know it. If you find too many right things that don't coordinate, or perhaps, say, two or three bedroom sets that you absolutely love, pause for a while. As you go onto other parts of that room, it will become clear what will work best.

After deciding on the theme and color scheme, attack one room at a time. Sit in it at various times of the day. If it is still on the drawing board, consider the room's future use and how you want to feel in it. Get some input from others who will be using this room extensively. Consider storage needs, traffic flow and lighting requirements.

Budget is something you need to establish right away. Don't play games with your designer when it comes to money. Tell him or her how much you intend to spend up front. Many people feel if they reveal a dollar figure to their designer, the designer will be sure to use it all up, and then some. If they don't tell, they hope the designer will surprise them with a complete job at less of a cost than budgeted.

The truth is that without a budget, your designer will not have a clue whether to supply you with leather or cotton on your sofa. Much time will be wasted if money isn't discussed early on.

Keep in mind that choosing the right items takes time, effort and energy. It is important to have a budget, but it is equally important to be flexible. If you cannot purchase everything at once, get what you really want and will enjoy living with, even if it takes a few months or years to put the entire project together. Remember, furnishing your home is an investment you will enjoy every day of your life.

Rosemary Sadez Friedmann, an interior designer in Naples, Fla., is author of "Mystery of Color," available at Barnes & Noble Booksellers and Amazon.com.