Light/color

When we think of homes and design, we often think structure --- walls, floors, ceilings, doors, etc. --- and what goes in a room --- furniture, accents, dÈcor, and doodads. But an important design element that too often overlooked is how a space can change with light or the lack thereof. A huge, open space can be minimized by dimmed lights or darkened sills. Conversely, a few well-placed lamps and open windows can make a cramped room feel much larger than it is.

One lighting option that's become increasingly versatile is chandeliers. Once hung solely in pretentious grand ballrooms or dining rooms, now the hanging fixtures can work in practically any room of any home. They range from modest to elaborate, but all have one thing in common: they offer a more visually interesting option to everyday lighting fixtures.

If you're trying to keep the light out of your home, curtains are an economical option to consider. Better than that, they can add visual interest if you pick the right set for you. Whether you go upscale with custom-made, in-the-now color and fabric schemes (like, say, light blue and chocolaty brown) or DIY roman shades, you'll lend some character to an otherwise sterile window dressing.

Speaking of color, we hope you've abandoned your strict white and off-white color scheme. This isn't 1989 anymore, Calvin Klein. Rich, deep paints colors are "in" in a big way. Turn the page to discover what hues can best brighten up your home.