DECOR SCORE

 

Q: There is a lone window in the small hallway that connects our entryway to the family room. I don't know whether to cover it with curtains so it kind of disappears, or to play it up, since it is the only architectural feature in the hallway. What do you think?

A: I think all windows are precious - for the light they bring into your life, yes, and also for the visual interest they can add to any room.

You can enhance that effect with an imaginative choice of coverings. Witness the window in the photo we show here. Or should I say, "salute it!" Smartly turned out in almost military dress, it draws all eyes to the far wall in a hallway that has little else of interest to offer.

It's one of many bright window-dressing ideas to borrow from the pages of "Beautiful Windows" (Woman's Day Special Interest Publications; Filipacchi Publishing).

Interpreted in Burberry-look taffeta with a red velvet lining, the flap-back, tent-style curtains are tailored and dressy, and yet good humored and fun. A bamboo shade hung underneath for light and star-control also makes the idea totally practical.

What a shame if the decorator had simply hidden the window behind curtains, don't you agree?

Q: My husband brought home a pair of lamps for our bedroom. A friend had found them at a tag sale but they didn't work in his home - read his wife wouldn't let him keep them. I'm not sure we want them, either. They are plain white with silk shades but as tall as the bedside tables. Is there any guideline I can tell my husband so I don't have to keep them?

A: Here's the best test - a bedside lamp should be tall enough to read by comfortably, but not so tall that you look up into the bulb when you are in bed. Lie down and see if you have to squint. If so, you've made your case without having to hurt hubby's feelings.

HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECT

Here's news to get you started on a home improvement plan: the 2009 Home Improvement Challenge is offering a $40,000 reward for the best project of the year, any project of any size and scope, from a new addition to a remodeled bath or green improvement.

The award not only includes the cash, but your renovations will be featured in Better Homes & Gardens, sponsors of the competition with Wells Fargo & Co. For more information, go to www.wellsfargo.com/homeimprovement).

Deadline for submitting entries is Jan. 31.

Rose Bennett Gilbert is the co-author of "Hampton Style" and associate editor of Country Decorating Ideas. Please send your questions to her at Copley News Service, P.O. Box 120190, San Diego, CA 92112-0190, or online at copleysd@copleynews.com.

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