Spring Decorating

Leave the winter holiday  stress behind--along with the fuzzy sweaters --and jump into spring.   While cleaning clutter off of the bookcase  and shampooing the rug are worthy causes to pursue for the warmer months ahead, they aren't the only living room revamps that will help reinvigorate your home for a new season.  Go one step beyond spring cleaning to a home decor  overhaul so simple you'll be moving to your next project before you can say "April showers."

Accessorize

Changing a space's style doesn't have to require a new paint job or an added piece of furniture.   Arranging the right accessories in a room can completely alter the mood it projects, bringing your and your visitors out of the cold and into the sunshine for spring.

Filigree Designs  Filigree is that fun iron scroll work you often see on garden gates. Now, it's coming out from behind the shrubbery and into the spotlight. Try using a filigree gate as a piece of wall art or use it to create a make shift headboard  for a lackluster master bed.	Modern Glass and Crystal  Replace heavy ceramic plates,  vases  and centerpieces  with plain, clear glass. Not only does it add a modern touch, but it also helps maintain a lighter feeling in the room by allowing crisp light to shine and reflect off of furniture surfaces.	Natural Motifs  With an ever-increasing focus on green-living, why not embrace natural fabrics and motifs? Bedding  and linens  with large, earthy prints--like leaves and exotic florals--are easy to find and add freshness to any room. Really want to run with the natural, airy theme? Bird prints are big for 2009.	Lightweight Fabrics  Springtime is all about lighter--lighter jackets, lighter spirits and now, lighter home decor. Opt for open-weave or sheer linens  that aren't as hot and allow for light from nearby windows to shine through. Replace heavy rugs  with bamboo mats.

Infuse New Colors

Ditch the dark, rich colors for something a little more vibrant this spring.  From pastels to citrus shades, brighter is always better.

Outdoor Colors In  With all sorts of new life springing up in your garden,  you should have plenty of inspiration to bring a refreshing color palette indoors. Look for linens, paints,  artwork  and accessories  that could be classified as spring green or aqua blue.	Mild Mid-Tones  While pastel colors are usually great for invigorating a space, make sure they aren't too pasty, as this can create a cold feeling rather than warmth. If you're unsure, opt for organic tones that can add an earthy feel to an otherwise uninteresting space.	Colorful Patterns  Add interest to a neutral couch by adding throw pillows  with bold patterns and colors, like teal and magenta. Re-upholster an old arm chair  with a fresh, floral pattern in hot pink, or a bright, ocean blue plaid.	Citrus Shades  Citrus shades like a spicy orange or a juicy gold are the latest trend in 2009 spring decor. These shades mixed with stark whites (in the form of bed linens, curtains,  throw pillows and the like) help create a refreshing style.

Room Bloom

While spring is more than just fresh flowers,  it doesn't hurt to include arrangements in your home as finishing touches for any and every space.  The key is to be consistent.  Choose a color scheme, keeping the same type of flower in a similarly colored vase tied with similarly colored ribbon.  For spring, white satin works well with white lilies and a clear glass vase that can showcase spring green stems.

Liven up your kitchen table with a colorful fruit basket. It will spread the aroma of blossoming Spring while giving everyone in your home some extra vitamins and minerals!

Get a Better View

While you may have been huddled closely by your cozy fireplace all winter long, spring means it's time to turn your attention some more cheery scenery.  Orient furniture to the great outdoors so your prized possessions get a taste of the sun--nothing is better than a comfy arm chair with good natural reading light or a naturally illuminated piece of artwork--and everyone can get a brighter view.

External Links

• About.com: A bunch of articles on how to transition your spaces from winter to spring.
• BHG.com: Get expert decorating tools and guides from Better Home and Gardens.
• MyHomeIdeas.com: The top new trends in spring decor.