Toronto Star

Avoid these decor don’ts as you bring in spring

Freshen up for the new season by clearing your shelves, filling your walls

- CATHY HOBBS

Ready to bring some spring decor into your home?

Whether starting from scratch or swapping out the old and refreshing with the new, there are some pitfalls to avoid. In other words, when it comes to decorating, what shouldn’t you do? Among the no-no’s are long blank walls and carpeting.

Here are 10 suggestion­s that lead off the don’ts lists of decorators:

1. Artificial dried flowers

These instantly feel dated and old-fashioned in a modern decor scheme. Instead, opt for artificial palm leaves, grasses or succulents — calm, green tones are a highlight of spring.

2. Bookshelve­s crowded with books

Yes, they are called bookshelve­s for a reason, but they can also be used to showcase beautiful accessorie­s. Leave some shelves empty for a more minimalist and calm look.

3. Two-tone

This was a common trend in kitchen design for a while. If you’d rather go with a modern, sleek look, instead stay with a single tone and mix in interestin­g materials.

4. The wall of tiny things

Instead of a wall of frames or mirrors of various sizes that usually form a gallery, go big and bold to better help anchor a space.

5. Wall-to-wall carpeting

This floor covering creates an older esthetic. Most homeowners prefer hardwood flooring for its more spacious, modern appeal and easier-to-clean benefits.

6. The overworked workspace

Clear the clutter and create a workspace in which work can be tucked away, or organized.

7. Framed posters

Don’t frame an inexpensiv­e poster and use it for meaningful art. Don’t think you can afford a canvas? Consider opting for an affordable wall hanging or framed photograph you print yourself.

8. Acrylic and plastic

Not only do these materials often crack, they also tend to look milky over time. Instead, go with an item that is considered indoor/outdoor. These pieces are not only durable, they’re now more design savvy and also won’t break the bank.

9. Blank walls in a long hallway

Elongate these spaces by creating a gallery feel using mirrors. 10. Bright colours for main furniture pieces

Instead of selecting furniture that may feel trendy, opt for those that will stand the test of time. Grey and cream are great foundation­al colours when selecting primary pieces such as sofas.

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 ??  ?? Artificial flowers, top, feel dated. Opt for artificial leaves. Leaving empty room on a book shelf, above, creates a cleaner, more minimalist look.
Artificial flowers, top, feel dated. Opt for artificial leaves. Leaving empty room on a book shelf, above, creates a cleaner, more minimalist look.

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