Top decorating tips from Good Housekeeping's Homes Editor

I love my home but I wish I had more space! Every inch and alcove needs to be put to good use – recently I got a local carpenter to build shelves right up to the ceiling so no space is wasted.

Pretty Maids Dusky Pink, £52/per roll;
Pretty Maids Dove; Up the Garden Path Charcoal, both £52 per roll; Cushion made up in Up the Garden Path Dusky Pink; Up the Garden Path Dove, both £48 per metre; Stool covered in Pretty Maids Dove, Winter, £48 per metre. All Vanessa Arbuthnott. Accessories: Felt baskets, from a selection, John Lewis

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My homes have always had shutters at the windows – it's a smart and practical move that solves so many curtain dilemmas. These days they come in a fabulous choice of colours so you can be as creative as you like and have 100% control on the light.

Price on request, California Shutters

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Small living room windows can present a decorating dilemma: curtains will just swamp them but you don't want to be on show to the world. Roman blinds are the best solution as they provide privacy and insulation when closed and lots of light when up.

Florence Armchair Linen Effect Stripe in Duck Egg, £349, Chevron Rug 80 x 150, £55, embroidered Bird Cushion £16, knitted stripe mug £2.50, candle jar £6, frosted Vase £12, honey pot, £5, all Tesco Direct

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Every home I've ever owned has had a working fireplace. It gives the room character and provides a focal point.

Isabelle Chair, in Dolce Oyster, £812, and Isabelle Chair in Dolce Charcoal, £812, both Parker knoll (parkerknoll.co.uk)

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I lived with rugs that were the wrong size for the room for many years. My light bulb moment came when I realised that they should echo the size of the sofa. Now my living room rug is much more visually pleasing.
 
Flint 4-seater sofa, £1,098, French Connection, DFS (dfs.co.uk)

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