Freshening up the home
Even in a climate as temperate as ours here in the Bay Area, there is something comforting in the ritual of preparing the home for a new season. The transition from cooler winter weather to the longer, sunnier days of late spring and summer may inspire us to spruce up our indoor environment even as we begin to shift our dining and entertaining activities to the outdoors. Following are a few tips not only to mark the change of seasons but to truly make a home more livable as the summer months approach.
Clear the clutter
It’s an age-old tradition to clear clutter in the home at the change of seasons. Psychologically, a space is more serene with less clutter. As
piles of stuff attract dust, clearing the space will help improve indoor air quality. In addition, if, as you remove clutter, you establish a place for every item in your home, you will know where to find what you need and spend less time searching for mundane items.
Toss piles of paper, from magazines to junk mail. In the entryway, clear out items that you won’t need during a Bay Area summer, such as raincoats, boots and umbrellas. You can store them out of sight in an appropriate closet or other in-home storage area. Donate usable items, such as sporting equipment or clothing your children no longer need, to appropriate charities.
Clean throw rugs and welcome mats
Small rugs and mats, especially in high-traffic areas, collect dirt and dust during winter months. Thoroughly vacuum and then launder or dry clean throw rugs so they will be fresh and allergen-free for the summer season. Replace mats that cannot be effectively cleaned.
Add a pop of color
While you don’t have to alter your interior design scheme altogether, adding color to your indoor space can help herald the new season. Choose colors that brighten the tone of rooms to enhance appeal. Consider cherry red, jonquil, tangerine or lime green. Employ these colors in throw rugs, tablecloths, placemats and napkins, in decorative objects, or in window coverings. Especially if your home is swathed in neutrals,
adding bright hues to bedrooms, living areas and even the bathroom can enliven decor.
Bring the outdoors in
Adding plants and flowers to the indoor environment not only adds color but helps signal a change of seasons. Gathering cut flowers to adorn the mantelpiece and the breakfast, dining or side table adds visual interest, as well as a touch of nature to your home. If you are planning to grow flowers in pots, choose species that can thrive in indoor conditions and place them one-by-one, or in groupings in kitchen and living/dining areas.
The transition from cooler and damp to warm and dry weather is nearly always cause for celebration. Sprucing up your home’s interior as warmer months approach can be a good way to induce a festive mood.