Spring Home Decor: 27 Tips to Brighten Your Home
Spring is the perfect time to refresh your home decor and embrace the new season. With warmer weather and longer days, it’s the perfect opportunity to add a splash of color and brighten up your space. From bright floral accents to pastel-colored accessories, you can easily create a fresh and inviting atmosphere that welcomes the change of the season.
Whether you want to update your apartment in Boston or get your house in Bend, OR, ready for sale, this article is for you. Read on for 27 expert-backed tips to help you renew your home.
1. Evaluate your home’s style
Spring is always a good time to look around and evaluate your home’s overall style.” A good style plays a key role in not just the appearance of your home, but also the mood,” notes the team at Greenbrook Design. “You don’t have to make big changes; they can be as simple as reupholstering the sofa, bringing in some natural greenery, or painting an accent wall.”
2. Take an inspiration walk around your area
Start your project by taking an inspiration walk in your local neighborhood. “Look for colors that appear together naturally in nature, like leaves and bird feathers,” says Claire Parkin, owner of Claire Parkin Interior Design. “These colors always work well indoors, especially for accent colors on your pillows or rugs.”
You can also borrow designs from your neighbors’ homes. Take it as an opportunity to make new friends and bond over interior design.
3, Browse social media for style help
It can be hard to decide on your style. “One of the easiest ways to discover it is by noticing which designers on Instagram or Pinterest you are most drawn to,” says Jessica McColgan, owner of Jessica Catherine Designs. Take note of your favorites and incorporate them where you can.
4. Start by cleaning and decluttering
A spring design project starts with a thorough cleaning and decluttering. “Start by going through your items and getting rid of things that you don’t use or are broken or inoperable,” suggests Marcus Larrea, team leader of Palm Paradise Real Estate. “After you’ve decluttered and have some things out of the way, it’s time to clean,” he says. “Between decluttering and cleaning, your house will be ready for a fresh look.”
5. Prioritize simple updates
Preparing your home for spring is about refreshing your space. Use this transitional time to update small accessories, such as replacing drawer knobs, throw pillow covers, planters, window treatments, furniture upholstery, and more.
“If you have bookshelves, add memorabilia from recent travels, your new favorite books, and a few small plants,” suggests Cynthia Bolton-Smith, owner of CCS Interior Design. “Something as simple as rearranging your furniture can make a huge difference in how you move throughout a space.”
6. Build your design around existing accessories
Consider basing your design around items you already own, including artwork and rugs. “Choose your furnishings around these two key elements,” recommends Eve Gianni, owner of Eve Gianni Art + Design. “This will set the tone and color story for your entire space.”
7. Focus on essentials
Spring is a great time to refresh your home. “Give your walls a paint touch up, deep clean your rugs, tuck away your cozy heavy bedding, and make way for a lighter, fresher ensemble,” says Miranda Cullen, founder and principal designer of Inside Stories.
“These updates don’t have to be expensive, either, as big stores often have sales near the end of winter,” says Hally Thacher, founder of House Port. “Mix and match for an eclectic look, but keep it simple and stylish.”
8. Spruce up your curb appeal
As the colder days fade away, it’s a great time to focus on sprucing up your home’s curb appeal for the spring selling season. “Pull weeds, trim bushes, touch up paint, and address any areas that you may have forgotten about over the winter,” says Rebecca Dickinson from Lemondrop Home. “Go the extra mile by adding a potted plant and a wreath.”
9. If you’re considering selling, declutter, depersonalize, and paint
If you’re looking to sell your home, spring is the perfect time to prepare. “When March rolls around, it’s time to declutter, depersonalize, and paint,” says Mark Polo, founder of Polo MA. Let’s break these down:
- Declutter: Empty your closets, cabinets, and garage of unnecessary belongings. Prospective buyers need to see that there is room to grow.
- Depersonalize: Take down family photos and personal mementos. Photos and personal items distract a potential buyer from seeing themselves living in this home.
- Paint: Paint is the cheapest way to refresh a space. Be sure to choose generally pleasing colors that reflect the bright outdoors.
10. Start with a neutral foundation
“Keep your investment pieces such as sofas, chairs, and rugs on the neutral side to allow for great customization down the road,” advises Patti Johnson, owner of Patti Johnson Interiors. “It’s easier to replace accessories than expensive furniture down the road.”
Don’t be afraid to have fun with colors, though. Neutral doesn’t mean boring.
11. Use lively colors
Spring is a great time to experiment with fresh and fun color schemes that capture the spirit of the season. “Consider using shades of green, pink, and blue to create a light and breezy atmosphere, and don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns, textures, and materials,” says Kevin Twitty, owner of Kevin Twitty Interiors.
Colors can make or break your home. “If you have a smaller home, use lighter shades and soft tones, such as off-white, light green, and blue,” advises Interior designer Kevin C. Hall “If you have a low ceiling height, paint your ceilings the same color as the walls.”
Minimalist colors such as white, cream, and beige are popular, “but don’t often inspire creativity,” says Georgina Borneman-Street, CEO of Titanium Space. “If you’re looking for a bolder option, you can choose from one of two approaches:”
- Pick out your favorite shade and use it monochromatically throughout a room. This strategy avoids the contrasts that can detract from a room’s simplicity.
- Use a pop of bright color to accent a particular area within a room.
12. Embrace bright colors and natural light
Spring is all about new beginnings and bringing life back into your home after a long winter. You can do this by choosing light and airy colors to create a welcoming atmosphere that feels fresh and rejuvenating. “From hanging a spring wreath on your front door to adding scented candles, there are tons of ways to create a springtime vibe,” says Claudia Grunberger, owner of Grunberger Interiors. “You can also replace heavy window treatments with light and airy sheer curtains to instantly brighten up your spaces and enjoy the natural light.”
Another great way to refresh your space for spring is through fresh florals, scents, and patterns. “Swap out your candles for crisp, clean scents, and your velvet throw pillows for lighter fabrics such as striped linens,” says Michelle Vazquez, founder of Studio Elle Marie.
Consider small furniture and reflective accessories as well. “Mirrors, shiny tables, and clear light fixtures are great options,” says Crystal McKinnon, Interior Stylist with Isabey Interiors.
13. Take advantage of wallpaper
Don’t be afraid of wallpaper; it can transform a room with very little effort. “Wallpaper can brighten walls, add textural detail, and increase drama for a relatively low price,” says Jenn Cameron, owner of Jenn Cameron Interiors.
However, “If you’re a beginner, make sure to start with a textured wallpaper, like grasscloth,” suggests Christine Archer, owner of Christine Archer Interiors.
Bright, colorful wallpaper can be great for small rooms as well. “Make your bathroom or powder room look bigger with loud, colorful wallpaper,” says the team at Wallpaper Boulevard. “While too much for larger rooms, it’s perfect for smaller spaces.”
14. Rearrange your furniture
Sometimes, all your home needs is a simple reorganization. “Rearrange your furniture to create a new layout that maximizes natural light and creates a spacious feeling,” says Janet Finocchiaro, co-owner of DTE Homes. “Then, you can add organic elements, like flowers, plants, and natural materials, like wicker and wood.”
15. Mix up your artwork
Artwork has a major influence on a home’s design. By moving it around, you can create a new feel for your home. “If you have the budget, consider investing in a few new pieces that reflect the changing seasons,” says Molly McGinness, owner of Molly McGinness Interior Design.
16. Incorporate plants into your design
Once spring starts, plant a few herbs on the kitchen windowsill using white pots. “This is a timeless way to transform your space and achieve a fresh, clean look,” says Cindy Krauklis, owner of Cindy Krauklis Interior Design.
17. Bring nature inside
The best spring home decor is already outside. “Freshen up your space by bringing natural elements inside, such as freshly-cut flowers or a few succulents,” suggests the team at Chique Home Living. “You can also add wood accents like serving trays or cutting boards for a rustic touch.”
“Incorporate colorful, nature-inspired wallpaper to one of your rooms, such as your powder room or main bathroom,” says Gina Mae Schubert, owner of Gina Mae Schubert. Or, you can just add a feature wall to your living room.”
Heather McCoy, owner of 315 Designs, recommends using rich natural colors. “Olive, fern green, warm gold, and terracotta are cozy options,” says.
Bringing nature indoors can improve your health as well. “One way to do this is to incorporate fractal geometries in your home,” notes Stacey Lapuk, owner of Stacey Lapuk Interiors. “Use repeating shapes and concepts, such as leaves, ridges, or curves.”
Lastly, consider adding a few natural decorations, like dried flowers and gorgeous branches. “Arrange branches and flowers from bushes and trees in tall glass vases to make stunning seasonal centerpieces,” says Samara Goodman, owner of Samara Interiors.
18. Use flowers to their fullest potential
One of the best ways to freshen up your home decor is with floral arrangements. While other types of plants are great, flowers add greenery and create a fresh and colorful element to any space.
“Some popular choices include hydrangeas, tulips and lilies,” says Laura Aguilar, owner of Aguilar Design Studio. “Don’t be afraid to group multiple species together.”
While fresh flowers are ideal, “faux plants work as well,” says Gina Hacken, owner of Gina Lauren Interiors. “Place them on tabletops, center of your dining table, on your kitchen counter. You can get creative with the variety of colorful and different types of florals to choose from.”
19. Update fixtures throughout your home
Take a look at your home’s fixtures and accessories and consider swapping out old finishes for something modern like matte black or natural brass. “These finishes can help bring life into your bathroom without breaking the bank,” says Lauren Adams, co-owner of Letter Four.
20. Consider water features
Incorporating water features into a home, such as fountains or indoor ponds, can create a calming and soothing environment. “The sound of running water can also mimic the sounds of nature, helping to create a connection to the outdoors,” says Natalia Pierce, Principal Designer with Detail by Design. “Additionally, water features can serve as a focal point in a room, adding a visual element that brings a sense of tranquility and peace.”
21. Let your home breathe
Freshen up your living pace by swapping out plain pillow covers with light, breathable prints and tones (think linen vs. velvet). “Floral prints are also a great option, especially if you pair them with a vase of fresh flowers,” says Jordan Lund, owner of Jordecor.
22. Use the high to low method to balance your budget
Design projects can be expensive. Bianca Keith, owner of Interiors by Bianca, suggests working from most expensive to least expensive to help keep costs down. “Invest in sturdy essential pieces like sofas, dining tables, rugs, and beds,” she says. “Then, layer in more moderately priced items like patterned pillows, lamps, and accessories.”
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also reupholster an accent chair in a unique fabric to completely transform your room.
23. Invest in a few luxury items
Create a luxe look by investing in statement pieces that will carry the rest of your design, such as a stunning chandelier or eye-catching artwork. “Incorporating metallics, such as brass, gold, and silver, can also give an expensive vibe without too much extravagance,” says Sheree Block, founder of DC Douglas Interiors.
24. Emerge from the cold winter by adding light accessories
Usher in the freshness of spring with unique accessories. “Exchange the furry blankets and dark velvety pillows for lighter cotton options,” advises Susan Corvo, owner of Susan Corvo Redesign. “And be sure to add yellows, greens, pinks, and blues wherever you can,” she says. “Keep it natural and bright and bring the outdoors in.”
Lacey Arters, owner of Arters Design, suggests swapping out heavy winter fabrics with lighter materials like linen and waffle knit. “This can help your home feel fresh and airy,” she says.
25. Use pole-wrap
Try using pole-wrap to refresh basement columns or entryway banisters on a budget. “Pole-wrap can bend and cover lots of surfaces easily, and is moisture-resistant,” says Tami from Reloved.
26. Take advantage of your entryway
Front door entryways are a great way to add a touch of whimsy to your design. “Clean and swap out the porch entry rugs with lighter, brighter hues for instant refresh, or add seasonal foliage through plant pots and a wreath,” suggests Sarah St. Amand, founder of Sarah St. Amand Interior Design.
A new statement rug is a quick and effective way to transform your entry. “Not only is it a form of artwork, but it showcases your identity as soon as you walk in,” says Kari Gale, studio manager with Jenni Leasia Design.
27. Don’t forget about your porch
If spring still means cold weather where you live, focus on your front porch first. “Brighten your entryway by changing out the front mat and adding an outdoor rug underneath in a softer color palette for a layered effect,” recommends Meghan Reed, owner of M x Reed Studio. “Then, incorporate large lanterns with battery-operated lights on timers to give a fun glow in the evening.”
Now that your home is ready for the spring, embrace the season by heading outdoors and admiring nature’s beauty.