This is my NEW weekly feature that I am so excited about! Each Friday I'll feature design inspiration from the past! I love looking through old design books, they can be so funny. I'm sure we'll say the same things about today's books in 40 years. A lot of the styles in the images aren't THAT much different than what is being done today. I think it's amusing.

"The homemaker who has confidence and enjoys tracking down exactly the right furnishings may decide to do all the decorating herself. Professional decorators (commonly know as interior designers) can give expert guidance that can save time and money. They are familiar with many lines, know how to find what you want; they have learned by experience how to select the longest lasting furnishing, know where to economize and where, in the long run, it's better to pay a little more for greater satisfaction.

If you use a decorator, decide first how much you want him to do. Determine what kind of services he offers. Some offer consultation only; others will help you shop, and some will help with everything from planning to actual purchasing. You will need to itemize this information before you can arrive at any kind of budget."