Around Home : Decorating Rich: How to Achieve a Monied Look Without Spending a Fortune BY TERI SEIDMAN AND SHERRY SUIB COHEN (Villard Books; 1988)

DECORATOR TERI SEIDMAN divides her book into five categories or “looks”: European opulence, classic contemporary, Oriental grace, country charm and American pedigree. Then she pinpoints the ingredients that make up each look and how to make them work together. Offering instructions on how to recognize high quality in everything from furniture to fabrics, and also how to make each look appear professional without spending a fortune, Seidman advises that each European opulent room deserves “that one grand touch,” a fabulous piece of art, a sculpture, perhaps a Louis XV chair. It should be the room’s focus, she writes, a feature from which to choose colors and set the mood.

Her definitions of looks are especially helpful: The essence of classic contemporary is a monochromatic expanse of space, air and light, whereas European opulence’s message is often a rich profusion of color and clutter. In addition to offering less costly alternatives for the expensive hallmarks of the rich and famous, Seidman includes a resource guide for furniture and decorative accessories (many mail-order sources as well as wholesale outlets), including addresses and telephone numbers for tracking down distributors of products in Southern California. ($19.95)