America's Next Top Model (home) - A six week shape up guide to a brand new view!

WEEK TWO - Find your style, add architectural detail

With your space plan (week one) in hand, let's find your personal style!

We know you have been pouring through design magazines for ages. Time to get out those pages you've torn out and place them on the table in front of you. What do you see? Do you see a theme? Do you tend to gravitate towards modern or traditional? Do you like a minimalist feel or do you prefer to seek solace in a comfortable setting? There is no need to name your style (such as Post-Neoclassical-Baroque-Egyptian-Revival-Chic) just pick out your favorites.

Now look through your beautiful magazine pictures. Ignore the color, furniture, art, etc. - focus on architectural details. Molding? Windows? Fireplace surround? Now look around your room - how can you incorporate the details you like from the pictures so that it works in your space? Check out your moldings around the doors, windows, floors... what if you added a piece to make them larger? How about adding ceiling trim? What about the walls? Would adding a chair rail give you the look you like? How about that built-in cabinet you've had your eye on?

Adding architectural interest could also mean taking something out - such as getting rid of the 1970s mirrored closet doors, taking down fake paneling, removing wallpaper. How about replacing the fireplace surround with something more contemporary? Dump the faded shag carpet and replace it with hardwood flooring.

Don't forget to consider your space plan with adding/removing architectural details - the room should still function the way you planned.

Adding architectural detail can either be a big project or small. Review your budget if your project includes adding flooring or cabinetry - you may need to forego other purchases as architectural details really are important. Now is the time to call in some favors and get help completing this project - as Tim Gunn says, "make it work!"