Nothing shabby about it

Can the clutter: Start by getting rid of stuff. I believe in getting the best you can afford -- but you don’t need much. Clutter is really unattractive. Just make sure that every single thing you have is really pretty.

Set the stage: I’m big on painting everything white for a fresh feel. White sets a good stage for colorful pillows, rugs, blankets, pictures and frames.

Find something old: Vintage always softens. Even if you are into stainless steel and modern clean lines, a fabulous old mirror or whimsical chandelier will beautify the room.

Make it inviting: Add fresh flowers in abundance and lots of plush pillows, thick towels and fresh candles. I keep a pile of blankets on my sofa and a stack of photo albums and magazines on the coffee table. And my bed always looks a little bit crumpled. Nothing perfectly matches, though everything goes together. The result is comfortable and inviting.

Where to shop: I buy flowers at farmers markets or the Flower Mart downtown. For vintage stuff, the Rose Bowl and Ventura or Long Beach swap meets. Indigo Seas on Robertson is great for beautiful fabrics and paintings.

-- Maryann Hammers