Spring is a time of renewal. Flowers are blooming and the weather is sunny and warm. We are energized and ready to tackle new projects. It is a perfect time to look at your interior design and oust the outdated to make way for an updated style that pronounces a renewed and fresh look.
Iron Balusters Nothing says dated like elaborate iron staircase balusters. They scream early 2000’s. Nineteen years later, it’s time to remove the iron in favor of a design that is simple and timeless.
Copper Craze
The copper craze has ended. Now, don’t throw out your copper cookware, but do let go of some of your copper pieces and replace them with different shiny and matte metals like brass, matte black, gold and silver.
Passé Projects
DIY projects give us a sense of accomplishment. However, there are some projects that have passed their glory days. For example, wooden weekend projects, like making pallet furniture, should be checked. Remove these items to an outdoor space and paint a bright color. They’re a perfect display for potted plants.
Chalk board walls are still great for kids’ rooms, but if you have one in your kitchen, replace it with a small-scale message board on the kitchen counter. Less chalk dust and the best part, you now have an open wall for beautiful artwork, a new console, or even cabinets!
Finally, if you indulged in the instant-gratification printable gallery walls, it’s time to take them down. The trend ended in several years ago. Take your time and choose artwork and other interesting pieces of wall art that will stand the test of time.
White Out
Many kitchens have that sterile white on white on white look. It’s time to soften these kitchens with beautiful and inviting new paint and cabinet colors in beige, taupe, blue and green. Even the cabinet hardware can make a huge difference. Now, if you still have a white refrigerator and dishwasher, it’s time to replace them with modern-looking stainless steel, matte black and even bold colors like red and blue. The new appliances give your kitchen a modernized look and the best part, they are much easier to clean.
Scale
Buying furniture is a two-fold process. 1) Will it fit my space? And 2) Does it meet my budget? Sometimes we get caught up in #2 and buy furniture too small for the scale of the space because it is within budget. End tables, sofas, and coffee tables end up looking tiny and we are disappointed. Take the guesswork out by hiring an interior designer to help you properly scale furniture to your space. Tip: Proper scaling, due diligence and patience pay off when purchasing furniture.
Brown & Bronze Be Gone
Just over ten years ago, kitchens boasted brown and bronze designs. Gorgeous for the time, but now this design feels a bit overbearing. If this describes your kitchen, then it is time to freshen it with the latest in cabinets, countertops, hardware, and flooring. If your budget does not allow for all brand new cabinets, consider having them painted by a professional. You’ll love the new look!
From the kitchen we look up to the ceiling. Is there an old brown and bronze ceiling fan hanging from the ceiling? It’s important to note that ceiling fans are not a design feature. However, designers know that for some, a ceiling fan is a must. Replace outdated fans with new ones that are sleek and modernize the space. Now before the new ceiling fan is hung, and since you’re updating, it may be time to remove any ceiling texture to create a smooth, fresh and open look.
Worn Out Phrases
“We live, we laugh, and we love. But we don’t need to plaster that fact all over our homes. Rather than go down the well-traveled “live, laugh, love” path, select phrases that are more personal, sincere or applicable. Artfully-displayed wedding vows are an ultra-romantic example of loving text that will never feel worn out,” says Maria Conti, contr
ibuting writer for HGTV.com.
Lighten Up The time has come to update heavy floral drapes that were popular in the 1990’s. No longer are heavy drapes used in design. They obstruct natural light, leaving a room feeling closed off and dark. Instantly update your space with the removal of these drapes. Allow the natural light to stream through windows with floor-length, light-hued drapery hung high and wide. Consider using beautiful roller shades for a clean, modern look. They even come motorized and programmable with a phone app!
Shop with Intention
Finally, we are inundated with social media ads touting items that are mass produced at unbelievable pricing. The advertisers count on us to impulse buy for something like a rug because it’s trending. Before you succumb, step away from your computer or put down your phone. Think to yourself, “What do I like about the item? Does it work in my home? Will I like it next month or in a year? If your answer is probably not, then you know to pass on the rug. The best designs come from making a commitment to shop with intention. You’ll get the hang of searching for time-withstanding pieces. And best of all, you will have no regrets!
Enjoy the beauty and splendor that surrounds us this time of year. Plan what you want to update and go for it, bringing inside the loveliness of Spring!