Now that spring is here but we’re all staying home more, and possibly working from home, you’re most likely seeing things you’d like to update, change or get rid of!
Home accents: changing decorative items at home, such as pillows, art and mirrors, area rugs, throw rugs or even adding some new candles or accessories can provide an affordable update that will lift the spirits. Of course, shopping for such items in design showrooms or brick and mortar stores is out for the time being (at least in my area). Online retailers such as Wayfair, World Market, Pottery Barn, Crate and Barrel and Restoration Hardware (plus many more) are up and running. Shopping for home décor online provides a therapeutic break from the ever present news, and it will be fun to update your home, even with a few changes! Simple updates such as new throw pillows for your couch, new framed family photos, new dish towels or new kitchen accessories (canisters, place mats and napkins, colorful utensils) can really cheer things up. Or, just rotate things you already own. For example, lots of people have items such as extra throw pillows or throw rugs stowed away. Bring them out to switch things up and to welcome Spring! I’m happy to help clients select and order fun new items to brighten up the decor.
Time to donate? Remove items that you’re not keen on anymore. Instead of throwing them out, hold on to items in good condition and recycle by donating to Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore, Goodwill, Salvation Army, Teen Challenge or other charitable stores. Many of these stores are temporarily closed, but the demand for affordable items in good shape will only grow in these tough times. Your effort to donate items that someone can use will help people on tight budgets and will contribute to recovery and rejuvenation.
Projects to freshen things up: pick out new paint colors or wall paper, change cabinet hardware, change lighting. Suppliers and store will potentially deliver paint to your home or will have designated pick up areas that limit your exposure to other shoppers. Web sites such as Clare or Backdrop offer paint selections and delivery. This approach is not my ideal scenario for advising or for making selections but while everyone shelters at home, it’ll work. I’m offering remote consulting via email, phone or video chat to help clients pick out everything from lighting to kitchen cabinet colors to paint colors. It helps that I have a multitude of great samples to work with while showrooms are closed.
Cheerful and colorful kitchen accessories
A simple addition such as new toss pillows can jazz up your interior
New bed linens, pillows, lamps and art will refresh your bedroom