September 1999 - 3 & 4 of 6

3 - Create a Cozy Conversation Area
Furniture backed against the walls around the room can be cold and uninteresting.   Where possible, consider placing furniture toward the center of the room, creating intimate seating areas.  An area rug to anchor the arrangement works very well.  If the room is large enough, create a second grouping of chairs for a special meeting place.

4 - Install a Plate Rail
Here’s a weekend project that gives a room a dramatic facelift.  Install plate rails, made from plate rail molding or lumber that has been mitered to accommodate standing dishes.   If you will ask specifically for plate rail molding at the home improvement store, they will show it to you.  You do not need any special carpentry skills to complete this project.  Paint them a color that complements you’re decorating or neutral is always appropriate.   It can also be used for collections of small items, as the shelf is not very deep.     This is a great idea for kitchens, breakfast areas, dining rooms and hallways.  It will fill a large space economically.  Except for the plate and other collections you fill them with!

Quick Tips 1 & 2

Quick Tips 5 & 6