"The purest and most thoughtful minds are those which love colour the most" -- John Ruskin (1819-1900), author, poet, artist, art and social critic, "The Stones of Venice" (1851).

Q: I've just moved into my new place. It's an older home, and while I would like to do some structural renovations that will just have to wait for a while. I hear all the time about how paint can make rooms feel different, etc. Can you give me some ideas?

A: Paint is the most economical way to transform a space because it provides much more than color. I decided to go to the experts at Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute for some professional advice.

"Paint color, sheen, pattern and texture can be combined to create a number of interesting and individual looks for the home," said Debbie Zimmer, paint color and decorating expert for the Rohm and Haas Paint Quality Institute. She offers these tips:

* Monochromatic color schemes are easy to create and impart a sophisticated feel within a space. A monochromatic palette consists of different tints or shades of the same color.

* Contrast can be a powerful element. Often, when two contrasting colors are used, one appears warm and the other cool. Take your cue from the room -- bold in the living or family room and a softer contrast in the bedroom.

* Color can visually change the perception of a room's size. Light, cool colors can make the space appear larger, while darker, warm colors often make it seem smaller and more intimate.

* Pattern also can affect the way a space is perceived. For example, a room can be heightened by painting vertical stripes on the walls.

* Texture is an important element of design that can add interest and style in any room. Use decorative techniques such as sheen striping or stippling, which provides a variegated appearance and gives depth to the surface.

While there is no paint police, you can use these tips as guidelines. The point of redecorating is to create something you like and are comfortable in. Experiment with different colors and techniques. You'll enjoy the challenge and be able to take pride in the finished product.

Q: Can you offer any advice on exactly where to hang curtain rods? In magazines and catalogs I see all different ways to do it.

A: We've talked about the length of curtains, but this is an excellent question, and one that is so important to the look of your finished window treatment. My pet peeve is to see rods hung so low that the rings and curtain tabs fall below the window trim and you can actually see daylight between the tops of the curtains and the rod. The rods should be placed high enough to allow the curtain panel to fully cover the window.

A few other tips would be:

* Hang curtain rods all the way to the top of the wall to provide visual height. This will make your windows seem larger.

* Extend the rods out from the windows. When the panels are opened, they will be on the wall and not cover any of the window.

* Before you drill a million holes in your walls, have someone help you hold the rods in different places so you can see how they look.

* Remember, the fuller the curtains, and the longer they are, the more attractive. Skimpy fabric and curtain panels that are too short look like your windows have outgrown their coverings.

Carolyn Muse Grant is the editor of Southern Nevada Home & Garden magazine. Her Inside Spaces column appears weekly in the Home & Garden section of the Review-Journal. Check out other decorating tips in Southern Nevada Home & Garden magazine, which is published the first Saturday of each month. Send questions to cgrant@reviewjournal.com.