Go with a theme to give your house that unique look. While it is OK to pick up the pieces at random wherever you go to reflect your travels, decide whether you want your home décor to give a well-thought out, planned look, or look like a museum with a bit of everything.

A recent upgrade of my home furniture resulted in my feeling justifiably proud whenever someone had a word of praise to offer for the smart designing. After all, the furniture you choose is a reflection of your personality and gives an insight into your outlook towards life. So whenever someone has a good word to say about your exclusive pieces, what he is commenting on is not that smart table, but the concern and the care that has gone into choosing it. Don’t be surprised at the feeling of warmth spreading inside you – it is after all your personality that is being appreciated.

Picture a scene when you enter a friend’s flat. The dining table is bare except for a used plate, and the dining chairs scattered around aimlessly. A piece of clothing lying on the dirty looking rug, and a bare look accentuated by a couple of poorly polished cane chairs. A centre table that looks like it came straight from a garage sale. What comes to mind? A bachelor’s pad, no doubt, and one who is not too concerned about the way he lives. If this is the way he keeps the furniture in his home, this is probably how he will treat all that come in contact with him- a casual, laid back attitude that whatever is, goes. Neatness is the last thing I’m bothered about. Let me live my life- others don’t matter.

Another flat you enter may present an entirely different look and feel. A traditional mask to welcome you at the entrance. A neat, plush black leather sofa set tempting you to just sink into its depths, promising to envelope you in comfort the moment you decide to settle into it. A including an etched glass top dining table covered with a handsome , with smart looking, matching dining chairs to complement its beauty. A neat bar in the corner sporting all the latest and exquisite labels. An open kitchen custom made for functionality. What is your immediate impression? Obviously someone who doesn’t like to take things lightly. A perfectionist who’d go out of his way to achieve that special something. Comfort matters to this man, but class is equally important. And we haven’t even entered the bedroom yet.

Which one would you like your personality to be identified with? Take your pick.

Of course, what I have cited are two extreme examples, just to put across my point. While you may not fit into either of these, what matters is that you understand the immediate effect the look of your furniture has on the people whose opinion matters to you.

So when you decide to go in for that smart rocking chair in the home-décor exhibition, be sure to first give it a long, cool thought. Does that attractive looking piece in the show window really go with the theme of your home furniture, or is it looking attractive, yet would do well to continue sitting there itself? Take your time choosing your pieces, and you will never be the loser.