There are few things in life more universal than the feeling associated with the anticipated arrival of spring. With spring comes the promise of rejuvenation and in short, a new beginning.
On a personal note, I find that spring triggers not only a need to tidy things up with a traditional spring cleaning, but also a need to reevaluate many of the spaces in my home with fresh eyes. While it’s easy to center attention on the outdoors as snow gives way to sunshine, blooming flowers and the lure of fresh cut grass, it’s also the perfect time to welcome the season and focus on ways to freshen your home’s interior.
Here are a few things you will find me doing in my own home as spring rolls into full swing.
• DRESS APPROPRIATELY:
Just as in our wardrobe we are storing away winter coats and heavy sweaters, the same principles should apply to your home’s interior. Consider replacing some of your accent pillows with color-appropriate shades that are more reflective of spring – both in tone and texture. A smooth cotton pillow in an uplifting shade says spring whereas pillows in woolens, heavy knit textures and faux fur give a fall and winter feel.
• STEALTH SIMPLICITY:
I find the best way to look at a space through fresh eyes is to have a goal in mind. Since my personal goal is to make everything in my home feel lighter, airier, and in essence renewed, I start with a blank slate. What this basically means is I zero in on a specific area in the room, remove all of the decorative accessories from the table tops, and deliberately edit and simplify. Take my cocktail table for example. Each spring I might remove my stack of art books, collection of candlesticks and perhaps a few simple crystal bowls that were artfully arranged and layered for a warm, cozy affect, and replace it with only a stack of art books with one simple bowl placed off to the side. Do this on several surfaces in your room and the result? Cleaner, lighter, airier.
• ENJOY THE VIEW:
From my perspective, nothing makes a home feel more depressing than spring sunshine fighting its way to get through the panes of dirty glass that haven’t been cleaned. Believe it or not, up to 15 percent of the natural sunlight that streams through your windows can be blocked by a winter’s worth of grime and build-up.
Here’s a tip – to avoid streaks when cleaning, opt for thick contractor paper towels. Easily found at big box home improvement stores, they are typically blue in color. The bleaching agent in white paper towels can leave a residue that results in streaks. Better yet, use a sponge and squeegee like the professionals do. It saves time and the results are well worth the investment in a high-quality squeegee.
Finally, always keep in mind that the best way to bring renewed energy to your home is to fill it with the people that you love. So clear off the tables, add a few new pillows, get out the Windex and then invite over a few friends for a welcome spring party. You will be glad you did.
Think Spring! David
