Style expert tells how to decorate for cheap - CNN.com

Style expert tells how to decorate for cheap - CNN.com: "'I always tell people, 'Start with what you have.' Work as much with what you have as possible, and then fill in where necessary,' Filicia said.

CNN recently asked the design guru about decorating on a budget and helpful tips to make your home look its best.

CNN: When you walk into a room that you're going to redesign, where does your mind first go?

Thom Filicia: I look at the layout, I look at the way the space is being used, and I try to figure out what the best use of the space is; that it works really well, it looks good, that you're getting the best views, you're seeing the space, and that you're getting through the space.

CNN: And that's focusing mainly on furniture?

Filicia: That really focuses on all the furniture. You want to look at where the rug is and where the sofa is and coffee tables and chairs -- just how the room works. Even if it's great-looking stuff, it sometimes doesn't look as good as it can look.

CNN: What can people on a tight budget do to rearrange their living room and make it look better with what they have?

Filicia: Make sure that your furniture layout works. Make sure that the things you love to look at, you're seeing. Make sure things aren't cluttered.

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