Spring Refresh

For those of us living in the Northeast, and especially for my peeps up here in Central New York, we all know winter can drag on and on. We long for a peek of green grass through the now dirty snow, and we dream of the first sighting of a tulip blossom breaking through the freezing cold earth.

For that reason, we tend to bring the spring into the warmth of our home long before there are any signs of it outside our frosty windows. Something about a bunch of tulips on our kitchen table, even when they’re from Trader Joes, tricks our minds into feeling a little less depressed about the fact that our face hasn’t seen the sun since we packed our kids’ Halloween costumes away.

There was a billboard here in Hamilton, NY recently from a nursery we love: “Flowers are cheaper than therapy.” HECK YES people! Here are some sneaky ways to bring spring into your home right around the time that spring SHOULD be coming, but maybe is taking a little longer than we want…meaning, EVERY. DAMN. YEAR.

Organize! Donate! Discard!

First and most importantly, spring is the time to S I M P L I F Y. The most refreshing way to welcome spring into your home is to discard or donate items that no longer serve a purpose or that you simply don’t like anymore. I am the master of this…I keep hidden bins in each room and regularly add items that I see floating around that are simply not needed. If you haven’t used it in a year, it’s time to part ways. Be disciplined and be consistent.And if you are a hoarder and would like to change your hoarderish ways, hire a professional organizer. Give your home a chance to BREATHE!

Accessories aren’t just something you wear…our homes need them too!

Instead of storing fresh fruit like oranges, lemons, and limes in the fridge, consider showcasing their vibrant colors right on your countertop or table.  Pop them into a simple bowl and voila, you’ve got yourself some spring.

Another trick that is perhaps a little more involved but provides even more impact, consider storing one-two large pieces of impact art that you can easily swap out when the weather starts to turn. Bringing vibrant colors into your living space subtly elevates our mood with regular reminders that summer is just around the corner.

Bring the outside inside…

If you’re lucky enough to live in a place where spring has already sprung, step outside and bring some fresh cuts right into your home. Cherry blossoms and other spring time trees bring magnificent color, texture and life into the home. Even simple greenery like ferns can provide lively energy that we all crave this time of year. And if you’re in the tundra like me, hop on over to your local florist who will help you get the job done.

source: www.chango.co

source: www.chango.co

source: scoutmodern.co

source: scoutmodern.co

Out with the old…in with the new.  

A quick refresh for your living spaces can be as simple as swapping out throw pillows & blankets. Faux fur blankets & pillows are wonderful for snuggly winter nights, but as soon as you set your clock an hour ahead, it’s time to part ways with those bulky pieces until October. Bring in some pillows with fringe, pom-poms, tassels or whatever tickles your fancy. Keeping some throw blankets as decorative texture keeps your home warm and interesting, even on the warmest summer nights. If you’re not great at mixing colors, choose a favorite statement piece, like a rug for example, and highlight the accent colors of that piece by bringing in accessories with those same colors in different shades. Works every time.

OK everyone, that’s all from us. Now stop reading and get to spring cleaning!

Abby Klatsky2 Comments