Some rooms simply shout “amazing” when you enter — something we’d all love to achieve in our homes. But sometimes it doesn’t quite work, and it’s not always easy to pinpoint why. We’ve illustrated “right” and “wrong” with these rooms and deconstructed the spaces to explain why. Here’s how to get it right — the first time.

Living room dos

Colour is a simple way to link objects in a room, and it plays a huge role in its mood or feel. When choosing a palette, try to use no more than two to three colours. Then use whites and off-white tones to balance out stronger colours. In this living room, the white walls form a neutral backdrop. To add energy, reds and oranges have been used as accents in the pillows, rugs and smaller furniture.

It’s OK to pick and choose between styles, but don’t mix them up too much. Here, we’ve chosen fairly modern furniture and finishes, using simple block forms. These clean lines are mixed with the organic shapes in the textile wall hanging and floor covering.

We used a dark floor to create a strong base that would tone down the light walls and bold colour palette. The solid finish of the black Forbo marmoleum was an affordable and long-lasting solution.

A rug can break up or define a space. Use bold designs for visual stimulation or more subtle designs as an anchoring device. Here, the hide rug is a focal point.

Choose art based on the colours, textures and forms that will surround it. Here, the fabric interacts with colours, materials and shapes in the room.

Don’t rely on overhead lighting alone. Table lamps offer a softer alternative.

Choose flowers that suit the décor, like these sculptural crab claws.

Arrange furniture for function and harmony. We’ve placed seating around the rug, encouraging conversation. Floor cushions add casual extra seating.

The side tables and lamps are placed symmetrically to give the room balance and anchor the sofa.

A coffee table with a shelf can be useful for book storage or display.

Living room don’ts

Ottomans should be used as secondary items of furniture, not to replace a sofa. (And don’t decorate with cushions — they’ll only fall off.)

Don’t mix too many colours or patterns, such as this rug, sarong and vibrant cushions.

The tripod table is lost in the middle of the room. It’d be better as a side table.

The rug is too small for the space, creating a floating island in an expanse of floor.

The desk lamp belongs in an office space, not a living room.

The large wall space needs a bigger artwork to fill it.

Consider the reflected image when placing a mirror. This one is wasted here.

The tall vase with angular flowers looks out of place. A series of low vases on the storage unit would be better.

Don’t stash things away under furniture — green bags are not a decoration piece.

For more great ideas and practical solutions for your home see http://www.reallivingmag.com.au/