11 Steps to a Well-Designed Room

By Emily Lapkin

"Lighting is some of the best decorating you can do," says Jackie Glisson, so be sure to have a variety of lighting installed in every room. Include task lighting focused on what you'll be doing in the room, whether it's reading or checking your e-mail, as well as ambiant lighting to set the appropriate mood.

Designers suggest converting your light switches to dimmers and including a few different lamps to provide a number of lighting options. "You can never have too many lamps," says Jackie.