There are many issues to address when doing major home improvements. The overall atmosphere and attitude of the improvements can be a key issue.
Degree of Formality
Certain things tend to go with each other. Silk, silver, crystal, brass, china, oil paintings in gilt frames, and draperies to the floor have an affinity for each other for example. Leather, built-in bookcases, old books, paneled rooms, coffered ceilings, and dark wood are another group of things that go well together. A third such group might be heavy linen, polished cotton, glass and metal tables, woven baskets, and wicker. There are the usual exceptions, but things that go together tend to have about the same degree of formality. Their color and texture are important, too.
Light vs. Dark
Most people are happiest living in rooms that are bright and sunny in the daytime and are softly lit without glare or sharp contrasts in light at night. In most rooms, lamps and indirect lighting is the way to go. Window treatments that leave most of the glass in windows uncovered when they are open during the day are good for letting sunshine and pleasant views in and give your home a cheerful...