A Spring Decorating Guide: Let the Sunshine In!

For me, Springtime evokes a feeling of freshness, newness, rebirth and light. Days are getting longer. Temperatures outside are getting warmer. The windows have been closed all winter, and most people resort to using heavier blankets and curtains during the winter months. Now is the time to bring in the light and freshness of this beautiful season. Here are some ways to brighten up your home for spring, and get it ready for the warmer summer months.

REVIEW YOUR WINDOW TREATMENTS

Based on a particular decorating scheme, some people have the same curtains and window treatments all year long. Window treatments also vary based on the view from those windows. Some people may want more privacy, and others may want to look out at a beautiful landscape. If you have trees or gardens outside your window, now is the time to create a window treatment that allows you to see the foliage. If you are on ground level and concerned about privacy, a light colored cafe curtain would give you that privacy, but let you see the tops of trees. If you still like full-length curtains in spring, you can use sheers instead of heavier curtains. You may not need curtains at all if you use vertical blinds or pleated shades. Many large homes with large windows use shades or blinds to give a cool look.

The key with window treatments in spring and summer is to give a light and airy look. If you use darker or heavier curtains in winter, change to lighter and more sheer types in spring. I change my curtains in winter and spring. You don't have to spend a lot of money. I have bought curtains from the Country Curtains catalogue which features a lot of sheers and light colors, and the curtains are very affordable.

LIGHTEN UP YOUR BEDROOM

The bedroom is one of the most important rooms to lighten up in spring and summer. You will want a cooler environment for sleeping. You will want to change your quilt to something lighter in color and weight. Once again, if you use heavier curtains or drapes in winter, invest in curtains with lighter weignt and color. Or, you can simply use pleated shades or blinds.

ROLL UP YOUR RUGS

If you use area rugs in your home or apartment, spring is a good time to consider if you can remove and store those rugs over the summer. Especially if you have nice wooden floors or ceramic tile, removing large rugs will give a fresh and cool feeling to the home. It will also keep the home more dust free, especially during the high allergy months of the year.

DECORATE WITH FLOWERS OR PLANTS INSIDE AND OUTSIDE

Whatever your decorating scheme, having a few plants around the house, or an artificial flower arrangement in your living room or dining room, will help to brighten your home. If you have any type of outside space, even an apartment balcony, it is important to add some color with flowers, shrubs or small trees. Everyone looks out of their windows and doors, and some flowers and greenery definitely lifts the heart.

DO SOME SPRING CLEANING

"Spring Cleaning" has largely gone out of style. However, there is something to be said for taking a good look in every nook and cranny of our homes when spring comes around. Cleaning windows, doors, inside cabinets and even light fixtures will brighten up any home. You cannot let the light of spring into your home unless your windows are clean! Of course, be careful in cleaning windows,especially if you life in a high rise. You should enlist someone who is a professional to clean windows that are above a few floors.

In summary, spring means light and sun, and your home should reflect that in lighter / brighter colors and cool looks. There are many ways to give your home environment a lift without spending a lot of money.