Getting ready for spring in 12 easy steps

May 21, 2009 | 10:45 AM
If any season can be associated with a definite desire to decorate it has to be spring. The term spring cleaning, dating back to before the turn of the century, meant untold back-breaking hours of work beating rugs, white washing woodwork, polishing silver and cleaning the house from top to bottom. But with it also came the great satisfaction of cleanliness, orderliness and the newness of spring. Often, winter sewing and quilting projects added a new touch, and the first breath of color would come straight from the garden.

In truth, if people wanted to be ready for spring, they would prepare in the winter, but most people don't think ahead until there is strong evidence of the season's changing. Frustration abounds when shoppers find an eight to 10 week wait before furnishings are delivered. Impulse buying ensues — a dangerous pastime since purchasing what you can have immediately may not be the best possible long range decision. Further, starting with an inappropriate purchase (wrong color, scale or style) may put you on a one way street to continued misdirection.

What can you do if spring and the urge to redecorate arrive simultaneously?

• Do a real clean-up and throw-out. Organize closets, discard clutter and simplify your surroundings. This will not only provide a sense of satisfaction but will force you to make intelligent decisions about items you need or want. Now you can see which furnishings can stay and look well with just a "face-lift" and start to use green cleaning products for better health as well as to help the environment.

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• Make a plan in writing. Use graph paper and a ruler. Moving the furniture on paper saves a lot of wear and tear on your back and enables you to see many options.

• Now, rearrange the furniture carefully, bearing in mind that the pieces may need reupholstery and additional furniture to work. Try to visualize the end result.

• Don't forget your plan when you shop. Be flexible. If you find something you really like and your plan can be modified, buy it. If, however, your purchase will cause havoc with what exists as well as your budget — wait. Look further. Diligence and patience go a long way in decorating.

• If you are on a limited budget, painting, repairing and slip covering can make truly amazing changes to existing rooms. If you are handy and can do some or all of the labor yourself, you can stretch your money even further. If you are hiring labor, get references, and see their work.

• Pick up that old wall to wall carpet if you are lucky enough to have wood floors underneath and go for cheerful area rugs, throws and pillows to give your home a new look for spring.

• Attend to minor repairs inside and out (screens, light bulbs, dripping faucets, etc.)

• Look for sales and bargains. The "bed in a bag" concept can transform a bedroom without changing the furniture. The bedding and window treatments are all coordinated for you at very affordable prices.

• If you like to cook, start an herb garden in your kitchen window (or outside) to nourish you as well as cheer you.

• Bring spring in to your home with fresh flowers from your garden or the supermarket. Replace weekly or when they start to wilt and make your front door a "spring like" entry to your welcoming home with early blooming flower pots or planters.

Get the barbecue and outdoor furniture ready for entertaining so company won't surprise you at the last minute.

• Use your own things to accessorize such as books, photos and collectibles.

• When you have a challenging design project which is beyond you, you can always seek professional advice. It will save you time and money in the long run and will allow you to enjoy the results without the additional stress to your already busy lifestyle. So take a walk, smell the roses (or early blooms) and enjoy the change of season. Happy spring!

If you have a design question that you would like Natalie to answer in future columns, email leisure@tbrnewspapers.com.

Natalie Weinstein is an interior designer, author media personality and talk show host.

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