Many websites enable the home improver to source ideas and materials.
On the paint front, Dulux's Colour Schemer offers the opportunity to pick one of 12 room types then apply lots of different colour combinations annotated with paint names and codes. The site isn't truly interactive in that it doesn't allow for applying a particular colour to a particular wall, for example, but it is valuable nevertheless. The results include large pictures, suggested companion designs, and photos of rooms. Alternatively, you can narrow your search by investigating dozens of themes from toys to medieval to ethnic. UK Carpets Direct has a vast range, claims it won't be beaten on price, and will deliver anywhere on the mainland for 10.