Really great rooms begin with thoughtfully developed plans springing forth from good ideas and furniture like the Amish present. A truly great room should have an almost anthropomorphic character; décor that is memorable because it seems to actually have its own personality. When you walk in to it all of your senses can perceive the attitude of creativity and sense of self that the owner imparts. Easier said than done, we all want to have at least one, preferably all, of our rooms to shine in this manner. To help you get started, one room at a time, here are some basic tips to create a stand out room:

WHO ARE YOU?While it may be socially acceptable, even fashionable, to be searching for yourself, it fails when creating a living environment that is inspired. Patiently begin asking yourself what you DON’T like and whittle down your options. What color schemes and patterns move your soul? Forget the trends and figure out what makes you comfortable.

STEAL GOOD IDEAS-Now that the know yourself idea has been taught, it is also ok to borrow inspiration and ideas from others. Buy a scrapbook, a kind of dream book, and start collecting photos, magazine and newspaper clips, fabric swatches, etc. Eventually you will see a style you like emerging from the pages, even if it is an eclectic one. Take your binder with you to purchase paint, furniture, etc.

FIND YOUR INSPIRATION-While it is great to find a hero or a mentor, in decorating your inspiration may be a rug or a painting. By finding a central focus piece to build a palette from you can create a lovely masterpiece. By pulling the colors or the textures out of your treasure you have developed a starting point.

IF WALLS COULD TALK-The greatest day in your new home is the day the entire canvas is empty. This is your one chance at a new beginning and almost inevitably we cannot wait to entirely stuff that space full, until every wall is covered up. It is a wise decision to spend some time, preferably days or weeks in this room as it is; watching for light as the day progresses, sounds from the street, anything to get to know your room.

ALL THE RIGHT MOVES-While it is important to have enough seating for all the family and guests that will be clamoring to hang out with you in your room, don’t over do it. There is something to be said for a bit of space. Also, learning to arrange the room for optimal enjoyment is important. It is a myth and a shame to push all the furniture up against a wall. The furniture crafted by the Amish is beautifully finished on all sides, and can stand out when placed in angled locations. Also placing strategic and well thought out accessories like rugs, lights and accessories defines a room, taking it from dull to lively.

Remember that building a house ends in months but building a home never ends. Interesting people and their interesting homes require interesting furniture and the Amish crafters have created hundreds of items that are not only memorable but personable.