Q: We want to pay homage to our Western heritages when we decorate our new great room, but most of the "Western" furniture we've seen is pretty corny. Will it be gauche to use some of the English traditional we have in the rest of the house, then bring in some accessories like an Indian blanket or a Remington statue my husband inherited?

A: It will not be gauche; instead a blend is spot-on authentic, as the English might say, for Western interiors of taste. There has always been a strong emotional and esthetic attachment between the traditions of the East, especially in Virginia, and the newer settlements in the West, especially Texas. Reread "Giant" and see.

Besides, those covered wagons rumbling from East to West often carried cherished antiques that had been brought over from the Old World.

Here's an interesting variation on the blending of traditions. Against a background of gracefully arched windows and a stone floor, this great room accommodates a traditional Oriental rug and comfortable upholstery, with accent pieces right off the ranch, like the horn stool, hide throws and carved deer-head wall sconce.

Before you go "oh" over the antlers, let me point out that the manufacturer of the furniture, Crystal Farm, promises that they are all naturally shed — gathered when the male deer lose their horns after mating season. There's a way to tell naturally shed antlers from those the deer didn't mean to give up: Look for a rounded "bud" on the butt of naturally shed antlers, as opposed to a sharp cut line.

Learn more about both antlers and this unique American West furniture at www.crystalfarm.com.

Q: I hate the old radiators in my apartment. Is it OK to cover them up?

A: Well, yes, but two thoughts first.

Are you aware that old-fashioned bare-rib radiators are hotly sought collector's items? They can be quite splendid, simply painted (say silver), and left out as decorative accessories.

You are aware that you'll be sacrificing some of the heat, which is the whole purpose of having radiators. If you and your budget don't mind, then consider having a carpenter custom-make a cover that looks like furniture, only with a grill in front to let the heat out where you need it.

Q: My wife wants to paint our wood floors black. Is this an awful idea?

A: Only if she'll be painting over wonderful, old hardwood. If not, a gleaming black floor can be the start of something terrific looking. In that case, tell her to consider high-gloss deck enamel; it will wear as amazingly as it looks.

Rose Bennett Gilbert is the co-author of "Hampton Style" and associate editor of Country Decorating Ideas. To find out more about Rose Bennett Gilbert and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

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