Whether renter or owner, our home does far more than provide shelter. It's a huge emotional asset, one that protects, comforts, inspires and motivates. A successfully-designed home defines who we are. But achieving that success can seem quite daunting. The Joy of Homeproves otherwise.

Step by step, with wit, wisdom and plenty of common sense, The Joy of Home guides us through the entire design process, always keeping us focused on what's really important. You'll start with a few simple exercises to get your creative juices flowing, then tackle questions of personal style, taste, needs and desires.

You'll learn how to make a scale drawing, to set up a realistic budget and time-table. You'll weigh the relative merits of different materials and finishes, and consider the impact of color and lighting. With its gorgeous photographs and detailed case studies, you'll consult this book again and again, finding invaluable guidance and a wealth of practical ideas for every project in every room of your perfect home.