Has anyone seen any web sites that address the problem of how to decorate "public" rooms? My church wants to decorate and freshen up it's meeting rooms and they need a lot more help than just paint. They are used for various ages and activities. The chairs are all different colors. They really look tacky and well worn. I'm at a loss of how to make these rooms look well put together without starting over and tearing out everything.
Has anyone had any experience with these kinds of rooms?
Any suggestions would be appreciated.

I dont know of any web sites. But before I offer suggestions can I ask, does it have a theme? Is there something in the room thats the focal point?
~Michele~

How large are these rooms?

Besides some good paint that is resistant to kids drawings (or easier to clean off etc) how about Silk trees?

New matching folding chairs would be good, the kind that are padded..wall borders..bookcases from Target can be bought for pretty cheap if the room needs that..

It would be nice to get furniture that sort of matches, like the clock, wastebasket, chairs, etc.. Doesn't have to exactly match but at least it should look like it is meant to go together..

Hmmm...I'll try to think about it some more..

Thanks for your suggestions!

I have done a lot of that at work, basically I just figure out a budget then prioritize from there. Get the basics-if the carpet or flooring is good, use a good quality paint to match, whenever possible, use neutrals and add color in your accessories so it can be changed seasonally and not look dated. Remember who uses the room and what it is used for. If chairs are physically in god shape, just don't match, try recovering in a matching fabric or vinyl to create a more unified look. If there is enough sunlight, a few potted palms add height and interest, long with color. I would keep the pots simple, again let the plants remain a neutral.
Check catalogs for ideas of simple set up- I like the Quill Catalog, I have ordered a few things from them this year. Good Luck.