It has to be noted that the best way to learn what "works" and what "looks good" is to see what other people do "right." This isnt just for "noobs" or anything - this is for graphics and usability.

Trying to tackle the "universal theme" is also an "ok" idea... it's a way that people who just want an alternaive to the native windows environment can just download litestep and apply what they want. While "we" as developers (please, I know I'm new, but give me the benefit of the doubt) like to customize our own systems, some people have neither the know-how, nor the patience; that's why we as really nice people release our work for others to use and abuse :)

That's my 2c, for what it's worth.

Amejin