By Tracey Schabel

Spring is in the air and the smell of lilacs permeates throughout. Washing windows, pruning bushes, lawn cutting, car washing- all activities that scream “let me out of the house and enjoy the first mild days of spring!”. You can also bring spring inside your house with some creative ideas and inexpensive accessories. Decorate with the feel of fresh air!

The easiest way to prepare for the spring/summer season is to spring clean and declutter

Nothing says “fresh start” like sparkling windows and open curtains. If spring cleaning is too time consuming, narrow it down to just a few eye popping pieces. Windows, of course, and if you cannot clean the window treatments, perhaps remove them for a simple look through the warm months. No time to sort through clothing this season- just switch out your seasonal clothing and make life easier when getting dressed in the morning. The biggest spring cleaning boost is to declutter.

People tend to nest in the winter and pull out blankets, knickknacks, and anything cozy. Put all of this away. Go for a minimal look- clear off the mantel and leave it bare for a couple of days. Its refreshing to see an empty shelf, and you can then add back the few pieces that you really want to highlight.

Next step in preparing for the fun of spring and summer in your home is to have fun!

Pull in some bright colors with throw pillows and other accessories. If your table is always dressed, try just a runner or placemats for a lighter look. On the other hand, use a funky patterned tablecloth if you never have before. Start using those kiwi green margarita glasses with dinner, or use them for tealight candle holders. Mix and match your place settings. Switch out artwork, if possible, and put up one piece instead of a grouping. Again, think of that minimalist approach, and punch it up with strong accent colors.

Rearrange and/or slipcover your furniture. A new placement will give your room a whole new look. Add or subtract furniture as is needed. There is no rule about always having to use the same pieces of a set in the same room! We are decluttering the nest- so put away that extra side table and wingback chair. You can use them in another room as a quiet reading nook for yourself! Pull in a piece of wicker furniture, if you have it. This is an instant summer piece and will make your other furniture seem lighter.

Accessorize with spring/summer items

You do not need to live by the beach to enjoy a collection of seashells. Group them together on a tray on your coffee table, and you have an amazing centerpiece that is moveable to clean around and remove if you need the space. Empty your wicker baskets and enjoy the basket for a change, instead of what is inside it. Fill the fireplace opening with candles or a lush fern (real or silk), and appreciate the architecture of the fireplace itself.

These are just a few ideas to lighten and brighten your home’s décor for the warm months ahead. They need not cost a lot or be time consuming to be effective. Remember, three things for spring/summer decorating- have fun with accessorizing, use bright colors, and declutter! Let in that breath of fresh air that we have been waiting for!

Tracey Schabel is the editor of http://www.GirlzDealz.com and GirlzNetwork.com websites “for women by women”, where you can find ideas, tips, and deals about home and lifestyle trends. Be sure to check out our websites for the latest in interior decorating, green living, lifestyle trends, handpicked shopping deals, entertaining, book reviews, and much more.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tracey_Schabel http://EzineArticles.com/?Spring-And-Summer-Decor—Lighten-Up-and-Brighten-Up&id=1129866

Share This