The Room Planner

Book excerpt: Most of us want to improve our homes and to increase their value at the same time, but very few of us have the money to spend on a professional architect. In Room Planner designer Paula Robinson gives you all the ideas and practical information you need to adapt the space in which you live. The book features over 100 clear, colour-coded plans allowing you to pick and choose layouts and designs according to what's appropriate for your home, whether you have a bedsit or a five-bedroom house. To reflect changing lifestyles, the emphasis is very much on versatility and flexibility, with chapters on High-performance space (making maximum use of available space), Valuable space (dividing space to create additional rooms and increase property value), Flexible space (creating moveable partitions) and Individual space (innovative solutions for particular rooms). There's also basic advice and tips, including: Using colour in the home: blue helps to focus the mind and intellect; green has harmonious, soothing effects; yellow stimulates and invigorates; orange stimulates the appetite. Using shapes: the kidney shape brings a softness and flexibility to interiors; circles introduce a sense of freedom and space. Creating atmosphere: an inset fire set higher up in the wall can have a stunning effect; backlit cupboard doors draw the eye; concealed lighting introduces mood and atmosphere while creating a sense of depth; mirroring the wall opposite the entrance door can bring life and character to a property. This is an essential manual not only for homeowners seeking to rethink their living space, but also for those who are building their home from scratch. Paula and Phil's guide will inspire in you the confidence and enthusiasm to maximise the potential of your living space, so that you too can create your dream home.