Don't forget to study the gear tables before you change the front rings. You can achieve similar results by just changing the cassette to one which has a bigger sprocket and this might be an easier/cheaper option.
Sometimes with a compact, I find my self riding right at the top end of the 34 and to go higher I need to change both the front and back at the same time. When I used to ride with a 42-52, I would be able to stay on the 42 ring for most of the day, just changing up/down on the rear changer. Everything is a compromise.
Cheers Keith