It doesn't matter where your home office space is -- in the corner of a room, in a closet or in the basement -- give it the same TLC you've given the other rooms in your house. After all, you'll be spending a fair amount of time there, so why shouldn't it reflect your personality, your heritage?

The more attention you give to the detail and accessories in your home office, the more likely you'll enjoy yourself while paying the bills or finishing up your report at home.

Next, consider your clutter quotient. Are you a person who likes to have all your supplies and papers in open view, or do you prefer to keep your things under cover?

Getting a feel for how you work plays a big role in the look of your office.

Next, pick your spot. Do you want your home office to blend into an existing room or stand out? Do you want to use real office furniture or upholstered pieces? Survey the other rooms in your house to get a sense of your style and the degree of comfort you want in the office.

Now, consider what equipment you'll be using. The lay of the land is key. If you'll be spending the majority of your time in front of the computer monitor, you need a big enough desk to hold the equipment, plus have a little space for writing, jotting down notes, etc.

If your home office will be used more for writing out bills, letters, etc., a writing desk might be a better solution.

Doing Your Thing OK, now you've got the space, the furniture and you've picked your style; it's time to pull everything together. Bright colors will pep you up, while neutrals are soothing. Integrate accent colors using fabrics, supplies and the like. It will be easier, and cheaper, to change these items should you move from a blue phase to purple passion.

If you're a collector, use some of your finds in the office. For instance, if you love baskets, use these to hold papers, supplies and such, instead of high-tech or metal office furniture.

If you're a doll lover, place some of your favorites on shelves, near the computer. They help to personalize your office and make it livable.

Remember, there is no right or wrong way to dress a home office, except for making it your own.

There are many reasons to choose ready-made slipcovers.

First, they're made of easy care fabrics. When they're dirty, just pop them into the washer and dryer. Secondly, slipcovers not only for sofas anymore. They can accommodate a wide range of seating styles - from loveseats, club chair and ottomans, wing chairs, dining chairs, even recliners.

Slipcovers are also more affordable than new seating, reupholstering or custom slipcovers. They're also ideal for growing families with young children and pets because they protect favored furnishings from dirt and everyday wear and tear.

Slipcovers also work well to conceal blemishes of the past on furnishings found at consignment stores, flea markets and yard sales. They also help to work these old pieces or other ``finds'' into your existing decor.

Slipcovers also can be used in unexpected ways, too. For instance, consider using slipcovers on formal chairs in the dining room, a set of mismatched chairs in the kitchen, a well-loved club chair and ottoman in the family room or a treasured chaise longue in the master bedroom.

Whatever your use, slipcovers can help to transform your interiors into stylish spaces.
- Gail McCauley

For more information on slipcovers, visit www.surefit.com

Once you have freshened the walls with paint, create a room within a room using an area rug, this helps to define your seating areas.