Does designing your home have you confused? Elements of Design’s Owner & Lead Interior Designer Lina Quintero answers your questions each month.

Question: I am looking into wood flooring for my home and I love the dark, solid woods but am getting conflicting advice about going too dark. What is the right shade for a contemporary Arizona home?

If you are considering wood flooring with a shade that is on the darker side of the color palette, it is important to factor maintenance and upkeep into the equation. Dust, scratches, and general wear-and-tear are more visible on the surface of darker woods. If you are not bothered by the increased maintenance requirements, rich, dark woods can add a level of sophistication that is unmatched. Dark wooden floors are a favorite of mine. However, if you are not prepared for the upkeep, go in a different direction.

Conversely, wood flooring with a lighter tone offers a classic approachable look that will never go out of style. In order to achieve a color balance with the lighter wood, add a dark area rug to the space.

Question: Are curtains totally out of style? I need window coverings and all I see are California shutters everywhere.

Curtains or fabric panels are a timeless element of design that never goes out of style. The style, pattern, color, and texture of the fabric determine whether or not the panels are “in-style.” As opposed to the more generic California shutters, fabric panels soften a room and they add a custom feel. There are endless creative design possibilities with fabric panels versus the more limited range of options with shutters.