The seven layers of design according the interor designer Christopher Lowell:

1. Paint and architecture. The first layer of design according the interor designer Christopher Lowell, “Paint is one of the most effective and inexpensive ways to add substance, warmth and “theme” to any room. But remember this golden rule: Paint the ceiling too. A touch of molding adds architecture to a room and value to your property. Photo Courtesy of GE
2. Install flooring. Christopher Lowell’s second layer of design is installed flooring. Anything that runs from wall to wall, such as wood, tile, or carpet, completes the shell of the room. Choose something neutral in color. Furniture will interrupt these expanses, to be sure to consider how much of the floor you are going to see.
3. High ticket upholstery. The third layer of design according the interor designer Christopher Lowell, “The fabric on sofas, club chairs, and settees should be textural and solid rather than busy motifs that might be costly to change later, when you tire of them. To avoid this pattern trap, reserve accent fabric for your next layer. Photo courtesy of Harden Upholstery Collection
4. Accent fabrics. The forth layer of design according the interor designer Christopher Lowell, “Accent fabrics are those drapes, pillows, runners, and table toppers that help bring a room alive. Because they are more affordable to replace, they can be change seasonally or when the pattern becomes dated. Area rugs are also part of this layer and are ideal centerpieces for conversation groupings.
5. Nonupholstered surfaces. The fifth layer of design according the interor designer Christopher Lowell, “We call these the workhorses of the room. Tables, desks, bookcases, and a more all help make a room functional, as well as provide storage. If your seating is clustered in conversation grouping in the center of your room, the wall can then be left free for these necessary pieces. Remember: the human form needs only 18 in to 20 inches between items to comfortably navigate around, so when choosing a coffee table go is big is you can. Picture courtesy of GE.
6. Accessories. The sixth layer of design according the interor designer Christopher Lowell, “This layer includes wall art, vases, artwork, mirrors, and just about any decorative table top piece. Think in terms of fewer large scale items rather than an abundance of small ones, which could easily get absorbed into the room and create “room dandruff”.
7. Plant and lighting. The seventh layer of design according the interor designer Christopher Lowell, “These two elements are combined to create shadows, lending an air of intimacy to a room. As much light should be coming from the floor as from the ceiling; an up light under a large-scale tree cast dramatic ceiling shadows, while task lamps add function and decoration to the space. The flicker of candlelight adds a warmly romantic and cozy feeling. Recess, spot, or track lighting helps draw the eye to specific objects of interest. Washed light on richly colored walls accentuates surfaces texture and art work. Photo Courtesy of Huntingon Lighting

Christopher Lowell’s If You Can Dream It, You Can Do It!: Dream Decor on a Budget