How do I know what size of furniture to buy for my space?

When choosing furniture, remember to measure the room and the space where the items will be placed.  Scale is critical.  A small room won't accommodate an item too large in size or scale. Pieces too small can get 'lost' in a large room.  While you are measuring, don't forget to measure the width of doorways.  That furniture piece has to be able to be moved into the room.  If you're having difficulty 'seeing' how much space will be taken up by that new sofa you are dreaming of, place masking tape cut to the proper dimensions on the floor.