Look at lots of reviews, and listen to the advice when choosing layout, colors etc. Try to look at as many websites as possible..for example if you are building a travel website, google travel sites.. take a look at all the different variations, pick the things you like best about each site and try and compile them. Make sure you lay out on paper your ideas.. its a lot easier to do in on the computer when you have it all organized already. And ask lots of questions!