7 Fresh Spring Decorating Ideas

Spring is so welcome after a long winter that it feels good to celebrate it however we can. Here are 7 ways to do that.

1. Get an outdoor fireplace. Some days in spring can be nice and warm, but once the sun drops, things cool off fast. Keep the party going outside by putting on a fire. A variety of choices can be found at home improvement stores.

2. Introducing a new fragrance to your home creates a paradigm shift that helps you mentally transition to the new season. Think about something fruity or citrus-y. Some people like fresh scents that smell like clean laundry. You can introduce fragrance with potpourri, oil burners, candles, or things like wall plug-ins.

3. Think about texture as well as color. You can swap pillows and window treatments that are heavier fabrics for lighter fare. You can switch brocade or velvet for canvas and cotton.

4. Go through your house and take a hard look at your accessories. Are there some you're tired of? Donate them to charity and use the leftover space to give your existing accessories some breathing room. Though you're not going for a sparse look, many of our rooms are overwhelmed with too many things.

5. Rearrange furniture and pictures. This shakes things up and creates a new interpretation of your space and items. Think about things like having your favorite chair by the window so you can watch the birds. Your television can live in the corner if it has to, or even in another room. You'll probably be watching less television once summer starts.

6. Pops of saturated color scattered throughout a room unify things and add life. Think of acidic greens, cheery yellows, or a succulent orange.

7. Gorgeous spring days were made to be taken advantage of. Getting what you need pulled together for a picnic can waste valuable daylight. To get out the door faster, keep a picnic basket stocked with utensils and nonperishable foods like crackers. When the urge strikes to have a picnic, you can just throw in some fruit and cheese and be on your way. Line the picnic basket with a springy-looking fabric of your choice, and display it in your kitchen. It will be both useful and decorative.

These decorating ideas will carry over into summer and give you some variety in your home. Remember, experimentation is always fun and is likely to result in a home that feels just like you.