Everyone knows that painting is about the easiest and least expensive way to update a room's look. That's fine, but how do you choose the right design colors?

The right color might not matter so much if you live alone and don't get much company. But if you have family or roommates, then this simple decision can have major consequences. So what do you do? The answer, as it is in so many situations is to compromise: Have everyone who lives there make a list of the colors they'd like in that room (yes, even the kids). Then, look to see where you have common ground.

Next see if there are any complementary colors. Go to a paint department or a home improvement center to get paint chips and see if the colors you choose are complementary. Use the lighter color for the walls, for example, and a bolder color for accent pieces and moldings. Perhaps you can find wallpaper striped with the colors you've picked. If you can narrow down your color choices to one or two, then the compromise should be easy to make.

If you simply cannot agree on the colors you like, then consider what is already in the room: Choose a color from the upholstery or the flooring and use that as your base color. You can even use color to compliment your kitchen cabinet hardware. This will give your room a pulled-together look. You may want to go dramatic by picking a color that contrasts rather than matches a predominant color in the room. Try a contrasting color on the wall that is the room's focal point. You will be impressed with how dramatic it is.

There are some other simple rules to follow when picking a room color. Always paint the ceiling the same color or a lighter color than the walls to avoid giving the room a top-heavy appearance. If you want to make a room seem bigger and brighter, use light colors. Your ceiling will seem higher up. On the other hand dark colors make the ceiling look lower and the room will seem smaller.

Of course, when you paint the room be very careful: cover all the furniture that can't be moved, and the flooring as well. Be sure to patch up all holes and fix any uneven parts of the wall before you open the paint can. Don't be surprised if you need a second coat of paint and have the additional coats on hand so you don't have to make a second trip to the store to get a paint that matches.

If the task is beyond you, you may want to hire a professional painter. Call for price estimates. When you call be sure you have the room's dimensions so the painter can give you a fair price.

When the painting is done and the furniture is put back in place, you will be impressed with how much better the room looks. You'll be inspired to keep going with the rest of your home. Soon you will have a showplace to be proud of.