Spring is traditionally the time to give your home a good going-over, throw open all the windows and shake all the cobwebs away. It is satisfying to clean the house from top to bottom, having been shut away all winter in a warm huddle. But sometimes, even the pleasure of knowing every surface is sparkling and every curtain has been washed, is not quite enough. The place still feels as if there is something wrong. Maybe it’s the colour scheme? The way the furniture is arranged? Something feels like it needs a re-vamp. Luckily, there are some quick and easy ways to bring summer indoors without busting the budget.

Image via: Sam Gray Photography

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Throws and furry cushions are for cold months

It could be that those snuggly throws, which were a godsend in the cold and snowy season, are now looking dark and heavy against your chairs and sofas. Knitted blankets and cushion covers that were just ideal for cuddling up to watch a movie by the fire in December, are now too thick and warm. Simply putting these away and scattering around some lighter, brighter cotton throws and cushions will have an immediate and dramatic effect on lightening up a room.

Image via: Pinterest

Heavy curtains absorb the light

The same holds true for thick, draught-excluding curtains. In summer, it makes a big difference to let in more light and hanging voile or muslin drapes which flutter in the breeze through an open window, is another very quick way to appealingly alter the atmosphere of your home.

Fresh flowers and fruit

Nothing says summer quite like a beautiful bowl of blossoms and whether you are lucky enough to pick some from your own garden or need to buy a bunch, there is much more choice available to match the tones and size of bloom to your own décor. They always brighten and add distinction to a room. An easily overlooked feature on the dining table is a gorgeous array of fruit. When you guests pull up to sit on your comfortable dining chairs, they don’t need to see a fancy table setting for summer meals. A platter of perfectly ripe peaches looks simple and stunning. Make the most of what the season has to offer. A jug of Pimms will be a welcome sight as well. The keynote is simplicity when it comes to celebrating summer.

Image via: David Vandervort Architects

Artwork often get overlooked

Many of us stick with the same pictures on the walls year after year. A re-shuffle of your prints and pictures is astonishingly effective in changing the feel of each room. Photographs of more recent trips and occasions are always good to see and visiting family and friends will enjoy montages and collages. With a wide choice in frames of all sizes it is fun to mix and match.
With these few simple and affordable ideas, you can soon transform a tired, dark space into a bright and happy habitat. Let the sun stream in, turn on the music, kick off your shoes and let the good times roll.

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