Design Rules: The Insider's Guide to Becoming Your Own Decorator

I've been into design for quite awhile and I have even done some rooms for friends and family, but reading most books and taken classes is technical to sit through at times. I read through this book at lightning speed and after about 10 pages I was finally able to design my living room so it was comfortable and pleasing to look at. I love this book and will be handing out copies to friends. Thanks Elaine for making the task of creating easy and painless. Though I will say I could use more pictures throughout for better explanation.

I just completed remodeling my kitchen and bath and this book made me feel like I had a designer offering me tips along the way! I was on a tight budget and found a contractor who only charged me labor but I had to buy all my own materials. It seemed like a good idea at first, as I already had found some floor tiles and cabinets at an auction that I wanted installed, but then came the countertops, back splash, sink, lighting, fixtures, etc. and I started to panic. I saw a review about this book and ordered it right away. I only read the chapters on Kitchens and Bathrooms at first and found them to be super helpful. I ran out to buy more tiles to emulate a pattern I saw in the book. I also used it to help pick out a back splash material and storage solutions that I would otherwise never have thought of, and I was able to get my granite countertops for super cheap because I was confident enough with my homework to go directly to a wholesaler and explain the thickness and edging I wanted like a pro! For those trying to do more with less this book is extremely helpful to use a reference when you have a vision but need a little help executing it. My remodeling came out on budget, but took a few extra days because I opted to do a little more than planned after reading the book (extra shelving and painting). I've also rearranged my living room and am now attempting to decoupage a sturdy, but ugly bookcase that I had originally planned to replace. Thanks, girlfriend!!!

What I love most about Elaine's book is that she teaches. Most decor books are all about "showy" interior pics and aspiration-al living that most people can't live up to. But Elaine's book teaches us how to work with what we have and how to love it. To me that's what a good decor book is all about.

I am loving this book! It makes decorating so easy and simple. I actually like that the design layouts are sketches and blueprints because then its easier to imagine your own style in the space. I am not bothered by her "flavored" speech...its not over the top in my opinion, just sprinkled throughout. It does help make it a little more fun, and not so technical. However, she does NOT skimp on the technical details...she gives measurements and ratios for EVERYTHING under the sun. I will definitely be taking this along with me before I buy furniture again. If you are decorating for the first time, this is a GREAT book to purchase!

Reading this book is like having a super, savvy, stylish and funny friend personally guide you through the mysteries of the design world. It is a must-buy for anyone planning to make any purchases for their homes and a wonderful gift. The sound, sensible advice applies to everything from a one-room studio to a mansion. Brava!