Redecorate for the new year : Rooftop Views

Rooftop Views

Redecorate for the new year

If redecorating is in your 2008 plans, our friends at Lowe's have some great ideas and suggestions.

Start with a plan , especially if you're starting from scratch. Do you entertain often? Do you have young children? What's your style - formal, casual or contemporary? Define your budget and get a general idea of what you need before you go shopping. Save time and gas by using online resources to do your research.

Paint works wonders. Dollar for dollar, paint gives you the greatest bang for your buck. You can totally change the look of a room by painting the walls, trim or ceiling a different color. And when shopping for furniture and accessories, don't forget to bring along your paint chips.

Wallpaper is back! And it's better and more fashionable than ever. Today's styles are more varied, with textured vinyls that can simulate stucco and grasscloth. You can get BIG looks without spending a bundle, especially if you do it yourself. Not sure how to select and install wallpaper? Visit Lowe's Wallpaper Center. You'll find time-saving tips and a calculator to help you determine how many rolls of wallpaper you will need.

Toss it up. Bring life to that old sofa with some fresh new toss pillows in different shapes and complementary colors. Along the same lines, throw rugs can add interest and instantly warm up a room.

Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize! Little things mean a lot. Give your home personality with touches like floral arrangements, plants, candles and artwork. Visit flea markets and yard sales for unique items that can be re-purposed. For example, transform an antique milk can into a functional umbrella stand.

Turn on the light. Lighting can set the tone for a room, so it's important to choose the right lamps and installed lighting. Rooms should have a lighting source about every 10 feet, so consider using both floor lamps and table lamps. To give your dining room a fresh look, try an affordable new ceiling medallion.

Treat them right. Custom window treatments can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars, so you'll want to work with off-the-shelf shades, swags and curtains. Drapery panels that are positioned high above the window and flow to the floor are "hot" right now, as are Roman shades and eco-friendly bamboo shades.