Decorating Tips

SPRING TIPS

Spring means a return of sunshine and crisp fresh breezes, blooming flowers, and the fragrance of fresh cut grass. A fresh coat of paint on the walls is a good place to start to help make your home feel alive and revitalized . Some of the hottest colors of the season are celadon green, purple, combinations of red, white and blue (how about cobalt blue), and coral (the new red for 2002). Also, why not experiment with pastels...like pink and lavender.  The spring neutrals that reign this season are antique yellows, off white, brown and tan.  And, be daring...it's only paint and it's 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, cotton or lace.  For a spring look remove panels and add interest by using a valance or simply revel the architectural element of the Venetian blind.

Table Settings

Table lines should also be transitioned.  Leave your tablecloths off for a lighter look.  If you prefer a cover, try using a translucent sheer fabric, cotton lace, 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 countertop.  Colored glass, Italian tile, and mirrored tile added to the backsplash of your kitchen countertop 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 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 plaids and checks, or solid pastels.  Jungle themes are VERY popular this season.  Using anything with leopard, designs with palm tress, monkeys or elephants, and 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 for 2002 is the beaded lampshade. Adding at least one beaded lampshade in your home is a great way to spruce up for spring.  

Last but not least, add lots of fresh flowers and bulbs to vases and pots, and display throughout your home.  If you do only one thing for spring...do this!

GET YOUR FIX...

Housekeeping Tips That Really Work!

Heavy Metal

Cut a lemon any shape and sprinkle liberally with table salt.  Rub this on your brass and it instantly shines!

Dust in the Wind

To remove dust and reduce static on your window blinds use a damp dryer sheet - it smells fresh too.

Get the Sparkle Back

To remove the stain from the bottom of a glass vase/cruet, fill with water and drop in two Alka Seltzer tablets.  Oh what a relief it is!

This Bud's for You

To prevent fresh tulips from drooping, put two pennies in the bottom of a vase.

Ask Melanie...

I'm not familiar with the interior redesign process.  Can you tell me how it works?

On a typical redesign consultation, I first meet with the homeowner to talk about their problems, expectations, and specific needs.  Maybe it's adding more warmth to a room, or making a space more inviting, comfortable, or functional.  Next, I asses the furniture arrangement for balance and flow, and look at the accessories and art placement.   On my next visit I empty the room and start rearranging. I may shop for additional items (within the client's budget) to complete the transformation.  The design process for one room typically takes 3 to 4 hours.  It's like working a jigsaw puzzle - all the pieces are there - it's a matter of knowing just where to place them that makes all the difference.

Please send your design questions to melanie@interior-revivals.com