Embrace color. Take a look at Will's apartment, Ritz suggests. "It feels modern, but really it's a mix of contemporary and traditional styles." Primary colors such as red and blue were used to bring it some life, but there are also modern elements to keep it balanced and looking comfortable. "It's the kind of room that you can add to over time," she says.










Jack's apartment on the set of Will & Grace.

Mix and match. "Don't overdo any one theme or limit yourself to one style. Always keep in mind that additions are good for a room, but not in excess," says Ritz. A perfect example of mixing and matching, Ritz uses '70s styles and brightly colored furniture to emphasize Jack's animated and flamboyant personality. But if you look closely, nothing is overdone. Even the mantle over the fireplace has minimal accessories.

Play with your furniture. "The only way you can see what you need is by moving things around and seeing if you can fill in the gaps," says Ritz. Start by arranging your furniture around a focal point to play up the comfort level. Find the most positive aspect of the room (fireplace, window, brick wall, large painting), and decorate around it.

Don't fall for trends. Why waste your money on something you're going to hate in a year? If you think it's chintzy at the store, then it probably is. Instead, Ritz says, go for a timeless feel. Just because your neighbor is doing animal prints, it doesn't mean you should invest in 10 leopard-print pillows