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Part 1: How to organize a decorating project

You've decided the tired sofa has got to go. Next comes the natural progression of additional improvements that you "might as well do".

"Gee," you think, "it might be nice to have a bigger coffee table, an entertainment unit for the TV, and an area rug too. Really, while we're at it, we might as well go for a new paint color, crown molding, and some recessed lighting. And, say -- don't you think this family room would be nicer if it we bumped the wall out about six feet? That would make our bedroom bigger upstairs too! Let's pencil it out... "

If you've done a home projects like this, then you know all about "while we're at it" fever. It starts with one little project, like replacing a sofa, a sink, or flooring -- and grows into a weeks-long ordeal of mess, dust, and decisions.

One thing that can help you stay sane, however, is an ordered list of progress. This document will not only have your "to do" list of tasks to accomplish, but also the correct order for completion. Estimated installation dates for the major elements of the room should become a part of the schedule as more elements of the plan are finalized.

Each project will be different, and each list will have its own set of details, but creating such a list will help avoid removing the newly installed window treatments so the room can be painted, or figuring out how to take down new wall sconces so the crown molding installer can complete the job.

Ordering a home decorating project is most harmonious when it follows this basic schedule: