After a long winter, which has seen snow and ice cause chaos for so many, the light relief of the beginnings of spring is a joy to behold.
I find myself emerging as if from hibertation with a nagging need to reorganise, to capture this feeling of ‘newness’… but where to begin? A good place to start, I conclude, is at home. We all harbour so many things, it sometimes feels as if they’re taking over. The Spring Clean is the perfect opportunity to let go of some of these things; to rationalise and freshen up.
Decluttering can be a very cathartic process – it frees up space, both physically and mentally, and creates a fresher feel in the home, a sense of simplicity, a distinct lack of stress, more room to manoeuvre; it’s as if we’re letting go of things that have been holding us back somehow, allowing us to start afresh and keep things simple.
Sometimes it’s easier said than done though. There are often items which serve no purpose, yet we find ourselves unable to let go of them. That’s ok, don’t be too hard on yourself! Use this as an opportunity to introduce some original storage ideas: wicker baskets, which bring a hint of the outdoors indoors; or add a splash of colour with a dyed woven rope basket, peeking out from under a sideboard – be creative.
Spring has a vibrancy to it which can easily be incorporated with some colourful accessories, a cool new lampshade and some freshly cut daffs and crocuses in a fun vase. Change the cushion covers in the living room to lighter, brighter fabrics and colours, and pack the heavier winter ones away in your new storage; swap the heavy curtains for light floaty ones; brighten up the walls and freshen the skirting too with a lick of paint; and frame and hang that photo you’ve been meaning to for years. Introduce bursts of colour easily with a bright new throw in the bedroom: bright blues, pinks, purples and yellows all ready the home for that fresh spring feeling.
Another way to re-vamp the home for spring is by rearranging furniture: it can create a whole new feel to a room, and it costs nothing. Take the opportunity to reassess what furnishings are required, perhaps create a new focal point, change around mirrors to better reflect light or relocate your favourite piece of art to a more prominent position. It will feel new and fresh without actually spending any money.
It’s time to embrace the new season, throw open the windows, let in the light, declutter, let go and welcome that rejuvenating spring feeling inside your home.