Style Secrets from a Design Pro

Birmingham homeowner and designer Jill Boothby started with the basics when she decorated her own bungalow. Use her budget-friendly ideas, design advice, and lists of room essentials to create the home of your dreams.

Design Ideas for Living & Dining Rooms

Thinking of these two rooms as a unit creates a cohesive look for your home.

Photography Laurey W. Glenn / Styling Leigh Anne Montgomery, Article by Jennifer Kopf, Amy Bickers, and Jennifer Berno

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Colorful Throw Pillows

Decorating Tip: Choose neutral colors without a lot of pattern for the major items. “Use color and pattern in the throw pillows,” says Jill. “It’s so much less expensive to change those out.”

Take your time. “Don’t rush to fill your space,” Jill says. “Wait. You will change your mind along the way. By being patient, you’ll end up with items you really want.”