In the first chapter of
Home Rules, Nate Berkus says, "Everyone can learn to decorate, on any budget. Be willing to take a few risks along the way . . . Why not buy that antique lamp you love and figure out where it goes later?" Why not, indeed? Isn't that why we have garage sales? But he starts with a few good questions that can temper the sometimes-risky desire for antique lamps--which is your favorite room in the house, how much time, energy and money are you willing to spend, and do your decorating dreams correspond with the way you actually live. The photographs are engaging, and most of his ideas seem practical and affordable (with the exception of Oprah's closet with a leather floor). Several features stand out--before and after pictures are always fun, and Berkus includes easy updates for different rooms that you can do in an hour, a day, or a weekend. He gives sensible advice, at least by my standards: "Buy a piece you love. Eventually it will make its way into your décor," and "pairing items from completely different price ranges is a sign of good design," not to mention smart and practical.
Home Rules may be slightly geared toward novice decorators, but will entice home-decorating book junkies as well.--Marilyn Dahl
