1. It should be the highest quality that your decorating budget will allow. Rather than buying a whole room full of inexpensive furniture, consider using some existing items, and then investing in a few good quality new ones, to obtain the look you are after. Changing a few key pieces can have a major impact.

2. Put your money into the components which most define and determine the function of the room. For example, if you are doing a Family Room, a cozy, comfortable sofa might be the priority piece, while the tables would be secondary. If you are designing a work environment however, your tables and desk would be the priority pieces, while a comfortable lounging chair may be secondary. Quality furniture is a good investment. Not only will it look beautiful when you buy it, but it will continue to look good for years to come. You may save money on the initial purchase, but if you have to replace it after a year or two, then there is no real savings.

3. Know what to look for in terms of frame and cushion construction. Better furniture companies will often give you several options for cushion fillers and firmness. You will also want to give careful consideration to your fabric choice on upholstered pieces. Sometimes a fabric which looks wonderful, may not be comfortable to sit on, or may not be durable enough for heavy use.

4. Be sure to select furnishings which fit the scale of your room. Following this guideline will give your room a feeling of balance and proper proportion.

5. When purchasing case goods, pay attention to color undertone in your wood finish. Oak for example, often has a very yellow undertone. Therefore, it is more harmonious with shades of peach and gold, rather than rose or red. Keep this in mind when you choose fabrics to go in the room.

6. Whenever possible, do a floor plan before you buy so that you don't purchase more than you need, or larger than you can accommodate.