Spring into Summer Decorating Tips

I love this time of year! That short window we get here in South Florida with clear blue skies and crisp fresh breezes that last about two or three weeks before the humidity rolls in. It just makes me want to break out the Mr. Clean and start tossing items that I don’t know why I am saving in the first place. And for those of you who know me understand how truly hard that can be as you undoubtedly have heard me utter the phrase …”don’t throw that away …I can make something out of it later!” However there does come a time when it gets out of control, when we can no longer get into that spare room or closet, and we find ourselves agreeing with the humorous plaque in stores that read “Martha Stewart would die here”. When this is the case it is time to apply the first rule of thumb that we always hear… De-clutter. De-clutter, De-clutter! 

 

So while we have the image of Mr. Clean and the voice of Martha creating havoc in our heads why not use them to our advantage and let them motivate us to begin the interior cool down process for the heat of summer. Just as we put away our sweaters we can also put away certain items and make some minor changes around our homes. Living in South Florida we are pretty much in cool down mode nearly all year long which is why it’s important to switch things up a bit to minimally remind us of the seasonal changes. A starting place could be done by simply adding slipcovers. By using a lightweight fabric over upholstered sofas or even just pillows, say in a cotton or linen, it will not only change the look by giving a room a casual spring and summer feel but also add some protection against the wear and tear of summer. Try putting away some of the darker accessories and artwork and put up some pastel prints and add some light colored candles for accent along with some summer baskets filled perhaps with seashells. Those pastel eggs from Easter can still be used in arrangements and so forth. Just make sure they’re hallowed out or the porcelain variety. 

 

Tips For Floral Arragments.

For attractive mixed flower arrangement every time make sure to choose the appropriate size vase in relation to the size and height of the flowers; remove all leaves below the waterline; cut the stems on an angle underwater with a sharp knife; use water with preservatives; start with the tallest of flowers in the middle, circling and integrating shorter ones around them and the shortest around the edge until you have a uniform shape; add the greens last and if needed add Spanish moss along the neck to fill in the base.

Spring and summer are also a great time to bring in the outdoors! Plants and Flowers always add a serene effect and some life to any room. If you don’t have a lot of natural light or a green thumb there are great silks available out there today. Add a water element, the sound of running water from a fountain adds a relaxing touch and looks great as well. A quick way to spruce up the look of your indoor greenery simply and affordably is finish them off with some Spanish moss on top of the soil in your pots. It’s the little details that make all the difference. Also if you’re adding floral arrangements to your home, coordinate them for an elegant effect with your existing artwork, fabrics, paint colors and so forth for a coherent color scheme. Make sure they also fit the place where you’re displaying them for example as a centerpiece on a dining room table they will need to not only look beautiful on all sides but also make sure your guests will be able to see over it. 

Another way to bring in the outdoors is with clustering potted plants around the house. They’re great for filling an awkward space or to balance out a piece of furniture in a room. Vary the heights of the plants and for a more dramatic effect add some lighting say an accent light or back lighting from the base of them. Try applying these mini-seasonal makeovers through out every room in your home, it will give you and your home a renewed feeling and fresh look for spring and get you ready for those hot summer days around the corner. And remember if that doesn’t cut it you can always make a trip to the freezer section at your local supermarket to cool down!