The Decor Diva: Den; bath fix; rug care

Clean den before trying to rethink its purpose, decor

Dear Decor Diva: We're planning to renovate our den. The current dimensions are 12 by 14 feet. We're going to eliminate a closet to make the room larger and possibly change the location of the door. We have done a drawing of the dimensions of the room and know that we want to incorporate a built-in with two desks, as much storage and bookshelves as possible and a guest bed. But we are having a difficult time making specific decisions. It's been a "catch-all" of a room for such a long time that all we see when we look at the room is a big mess and no way to dig through it. Help, please. -- Clutter Central

Dear Clutter Central: It's much easier to visualize design concepts in empty rooms than in cluttered ones. Since you are definitely committed to this project, I'm going to suggest that you begin it by actually emptying this room of all that stuff you have accumulated over the years. Pack the papers, books and mementos that you will keep in banker's storage boxes. Move out, strip away or throw away everything else including window and floor coverings. Once this is done, you'll be able to see the space much more clearly. I know you'll be able to better visualize where you want to place the elements in your new den.

And please don't think of this as a delay tactic. It's a job that needs to be done anyway. Once you've discarded all the clutter, the plan for your new room will take shape much more quickly and the work can begin right away. There's also a possibility that the room is larger than it appears and big enough as it is to accommodate your needs.

Bath quick fix

Dear Decor Diva: We're getting our house ready to put on the market. Everything else is in good shape except for the bathrooms. We really don't want to invest heavily in these two bathrooms, but they do need some attention. Since we are limited on budget, what do you think will have the biggest effect on resale for the smallest cost? -- Needs Ideas

Dear Needs Ideas: I'll assume that the plumbing and fixtures are in reasonably good shape. In that case, then re-grouting tile and re-painting the walls will really make a big difference in your bathrooms. If possible, try to change the floors as well. These two things will have a big impact and your bathrooms will look fresh and impeccable for potential buyers.

Rug care

Dear Decor Diva: We purchased a good silk and wool area rug in an Aubusson pattern and in anticipation of its delivery next week wanted to ask the best way to insure that it keeps well for many, many years in our home. -- Caring for Rug

Dear Caring for Rug: You're in luck because I just had a visit from one of my best rug reps and we were discussing this very thing. He suggests that as soon as your rug arrives and has been positioned in your home, vacuum it thoroughly to make sure it is as clean and free of lint as possible. Then spray lightly and evenly over the entire surface with a good quality rug and carpet protection spray.

In a few minutes this will dry. Repeat this two more times. Then let your new rug dry thoroughly before placing any furniture or walking on it. When it is completely dry, your rug will be as protected from stains as can reasonably be expected and with regular vacuuming should keep clean for a long, long time.