Here is a living room decorating plan that is simple, practical and can fit any decor style and budget.

First we are going to cover some living room decorating basics that will help you set your own unique design and decor plan.

We'll cover:

• Determining the Mood
• Deciding on the Decor Style
• Working with the Size & Shape of the Room
• Existing Elements
• Color Scheme
• Focal Point
• Lighting
• Entry & Exit Points

Click here to read all of the details and Living Room Decor Basics, then come back to this page for more living room decorating ideas.

Okay, now that you've read that material and have a game plan started, there are a few other details that need to be addressed:

If you are undecided about your decorating style and want to spend a little more time defining it, read about Interior Decorating Styles,then come back to this page for more living room decorating help.

Take an inventory of everything you have in the room, from furniture to accessories. If the area is empty, it's a quick list. After the list is prepared (write it down on paper, not just in your head), circle anything that is going to stay in the room, for any reason. Now you know what you are starting with.

Do you have furniture and or accessories that you need/want to purchase for your decorating project? We're going to talk about that all-important subject now! Determine what your realistic budget is going to be. Do it first, before you start making the list of what you want to purchase for this area. It will avoid setting yourself up for disappointment later. So, now you have the budget set, right?

Now it's time to create the list of what is going to be purchased for this room, from paint for the walls to furniture to flooring to accessories. Everyone's 'To Purchase' list will be different, of course, depending on your circumstances, lifestyle and budget, room function and arrangement, etc.

Okay, you should now have a plan formed for your living room decor project along with a list of what is going to be purchased to accomplish it. Here are some final thoughts and tips for you:

• If you are going to paint the walls (and I hope you will, if they are currently 'new home white'), get that part of the project done first.
• Are you working with some existing furniture? Then arrange it after you paint, even if there are a few gaps you are going to fill with new purchases. Get the feel of the new room arrangement.
• If your purchases need to wait for the budget to catch up, consider slipcovers for the upholstered pieces and a fresh coat of paint for the casegoods. It will give the space new personality and make it feel like you've accomplished something with your living room decor!