Room Redux: The Home Decorating Workbook can be used in several ways: as an introduction to basic design concepts, as a problem solver and as a workbook. The book begins with the premise that most rooms are not perfect. So if you're going to redecorate, you'll have to make the most of the shortcomings.

Questionnaires help you assess the strengths and weaknesses of each room and how and where to begin. Workable solutions are provided for problem areas common to many homes. Are the windows in your living room too low? Hang the curtain valence higher or mount a shelf above the window and place pottery or pictures above it.

The solutions are often refreshingly quick fixes that don't require a major amount of remodeling — just a bit of time and ingenuity. Suggested projects are marked "quick-fix," "moderate," or "major" so that decorators know ahead of time what they're getting into.

The book contains pockets for collecting fabric swatches, pictures, and article clippings. And if you've ever moved a roomful of furniture only to discover its new layout doesn't work, you'll be inspired to use the enclosed graph paper and to-scale punch-out furniture to preplan rooms to your liking. Color drawings present a variety of fabrics and furniture styles, and handy charts provide tips on lighting placement and dimensions for spaces between furniture.

For a minor paint job or an entire household makeover, this book is a definitive source for home design.