The reason I like this book more than most books on interior design and home decorating is that the author is sensitive to the fact that not everyone can spend thousands of dollars to fix up their home interiors, and she also understands that we need to start where we are by taking a look at what we have already and working with it creatively. Unlike store-sponsored decorating, where the idea is to sell you as much new furniture, drapes, carpet, and materials as possible, the emphasis here is working with and around your current belongings and working within your practical budget. You"ll find none of the old "gut the place and start from the bare studs" that one so often sees in decorating magazines. This is a decorating book for regular folks.