One of my favorite solutions, both simple and cost effective, is to add books. From special interest coffee table books and the latest novels to antique leather-bound editions, books add color, personality and detail to any room. Flank books with artful bookends or even sculpture on shelves or in bookcases. Stack a few here and there on end tables, the fireplace mantel or console. Intersperse vases, framed photos and your favorite collectables and you'll have a multi-dimensional and captivating ambiance that welcomes you home.

A great combination for light to dense shade are button ferns, clivia and impatiens. Place stones in the border before you plant. This will create a natural look. Stones found on your property tend to look best. Use clivia and ferns as your foundation planting. Impatiens will be your spring to fall seasonal color. In winter change out the impatiens for primula malicoides.