Paint and an interesting window treatment create decorating magic

Paint is the illusionist of the decorating world with cool colors that give the impression of more space and warm colors that create a cozy, more intimate look.

But that doesn't mean that homeowners have to commit to painting an entire room to create the illusion of higher ceilings or wider walls. Painting one feature of a room, or a small section, may be all that's needed to change the atmosphere of the space, according to HomesGardenDesign.com.

For instance, the website recommends that a display space can be defined by painting shelves and a wall behind them in a bold color as a dramatic backdrop to books and accessories.

A window treatment may create the same effect by focusing attention in a certain area of a room through the use of interesting coverings, such as faux wood blinds from Blinds Chalet.

"Composite faux wood blinds are made from a combination of real wood particles and synthetic materials. This unique process makes a more durable, longer lasting alternative to wood blinds that resists chipping and warping," states the company's website. "Our express blinds made from composite materials offer the look of real wood at a fraction of the cost."