Large upholstered pieces are a big investment, so I suggest you consider buying solid or tone on tone classic pieces in colors that are versatile and compatible with many styles and colors schemes. I then would recommend bringing in pattern on the smaller accent furniture pieces, accent pillows and window treatments. By the time you finish the third step of your design project, excitement is in the air. Be patient, you're not done yet. The latter two is more decorative than functional.
Window treatments can be both.
These elements are the fourth step in achieving a beautifully decorated home. Your choice of window treatments will vary, depending on what you want the particular treatment to accomplish. Once you have decided on the objective for your window treatment, your options for choice become more manageable. Hard treatments are blinds, shades, shutters, and verticals. Each has a very distinctive purpose, so think this through carefully.