Livinghouse

Yes spring is just around the corner, with the first official day on 21^st March – apparently. We know it doesn’t seem possible as the rain and the floods just keep coming. But on good days, the evenings are starting just a little later as dusk doesn’t fall until well after five p.m. and that’s got to be good news.

We don’t mean to be blasé while some people are having a truly miserable and very wet time. We’re just trying to put a positive spin on the upcoming season!

Decorate for spring

If you’re lucky enough not to have been affected by flooding and have your home intact, you could consider redecorating to add some bright and cheerful signs of spring.

The most obvious way is with spring flowers and plants. Start outside by filling tubs, baskets and pots with a range of bulbs. Put all the same ones in one pot for maximum impact from the great array available – daffs, tulips, hyacinths, grape hyacinths and even delicate Fritillaries.

We can’t promise it will be warm or dry enough to sit outside, but it will cheer you up every time you look out!

Planted bulbs will brighten up every room indoors too. The shops and garden centres will be full of potted bulbs like the ones mentioned above but you might also consider Amaryllis, irises and crocus for indoors. Even a few snowdrops in a tiny pot will add their purity to the Spring scene. Keep them cool and they’ll last longer too.

Spring makeover

Don’t stop at the plants, why not consider changing your curtains, blinds and cushions and give them a seasonal look?

Pastel colours to compliment your existing décor, or flower and leafy prints. These leafy blinds in the conservatory work really well. Or why not try one of the flowery prints in line with spring and summer fashions this year?

If you are wanting to add other touches you can make matching cushions, table runners or even curtains. But probably nicer would be to pick out one of the colours in your newly chosen print and make accessories in that colour.

Bring in the birds

Spring and summer sees the return of many birds too. There are also a number of decals and wallpapers that reflect our love of these winged creatures. There are many out there to choose from – delicate or exotic or caged, you can choose the birds you want! Checkout Cole & Son, Laura Ashley, Louise Body, Designers Guild and Sanderson. Just as we said, birds are everywhere!

Whether it’s just the odd touch or a whole redecorating project, be sure to cheer up your home with a little touch of spring inside and out.