Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Spring Decorating is just around the Corner!


Only 37 more days until SPRING...






Spring means a return of sunshine, fresh breezes, blooming flowers, and the fragrance of fresh cut grass. What are you gonna do in your house to celebrate the return of this wonderful season? A fresh coat of paint on the walls is a good place to start to help make your home feel alive and revitalized . And, be daring...it's only paint! Your least expensive and most effective decorating tool.






The Bath This season, monogram a set a white Egyptian cotton towels in your favorite color for a classic look. Or if you can't find towels to match your decor, sew a band of fabric or trim to the edges. For that sophisticated all white European look, purchase a waffle-weave shower curtain. Terrycloth is still a favorite for covering bath chairs and vanity stools, it's also luxurious in bathrobes and slippers.






Windows Let the sunshine in! Replace heavy drapes with shears or cotton. For a spring look remove panels and add interest by using a valance or simply reveal the architectural elements of the window. Maybe you want to add a natural element with woven blinds. They come in an array of colors and add just a hint of the outside indoors!






Table Settings Table linens should also be transitioned. Leave your tablecloths off for a lighter look. If you prefer a cover, try using a translucent sheer fabric or summer chintz. For drama, casually lay a table scarf across your table or counter. This makes for an interesting table setting when entertaining. Add two candlesticks and ..."viola," another exquisite conversation piece for your home.






The Kitchen Add fresh lemons or green apples to your favorite bowls and baskets and display on an island or counter top. Colored glass, Italian tile, and mirrored tile added to the back splash of your kitchen counter top are a few ways to update to a contemporary look. Don't forget to de-clutter. In a small kitchen, one of my favorite ways to disguise large, bulky appliances is to store them in a BIG basket on top of the fridge.






Furnishings Lighten up using slipcovers. There are many inexpensive, lightweight, ready-made covers available in lots of colors and styles. Heavy wing chairs and recliners can be replaced with wicker and rattan chairs. Roll up and store your area rugs. Replace with sisal or canvas, or just leave the floors bare. Use pillows and throws printed in French Provincial themes, spring florals, brightly colored patterns or solids. Using anything with an animal print, such as leopard, paired with pillows adorned with accents such as embroidery, beading and mirrors will give charming results.






Lighting Rethink lighting. Buy a new lamp that's fun and interesting (think of it as jewelry for you home). We all know that sometimes it's the simplest accessory that can take an outfit from ordinary to extraordinary. Make a statement...change your lampshades. I think the best thing that has happened in home accessories the decorative lampshade. Adding at least one decorative lampshade in your home is a great way to spruce up for spring.



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