Anywho -- all a scene is is a collection of assets which completely fill the viewer's field of vision. May sound like a lot, but it all depends on what scene you're doing... first thing I'd recommend is start modelling single objects -- boxes, crates, lamps, TVs, tables, etc. Then, create a new maya scene and import all your assets and lay them out... a room is exactly like every other asset just bigger and you see the INSIDE of it, not the outside (make sure to adjust your normals.)

If you wish any further help... its 3:30 am so I'll get back to you on that :p