How to invite Spring in
As the frost retreats and the days begin to stretch, there is an undeniable shift in the atmosphere. Spring is the season of rejuvenation, a time when nature shakes off the winter slumber and invites us to do the same within our four walls. Refreshing your home for the new season isn't about a total overhaul; it’s about capturing that sense of lightness and new life. Here is how you can gently nudge your interiors into spring:
Welcome in Spring
While we often focus on our living rooms, spring is the ideal time to show some love to your hardest-working spaces. Porches, utility rooms, and boot rooms often bear the brunt of winter’s mud and clutter. Clearing out the heavy coats, scrubbing down the stone floors, and reorganising these transitional zones creates a sense of order that ripples through the rest of the house. A clean, streamlined utility room makes the daily chores feel just a little bit lighter- and who doesn’t want the benefit of that! It will get you all set for that perfect spring day when you get to hang out the washing on the line for the first time
Spring Clean your hard-working areas
As a biophilic interior designer I understand more than most that windows are so important- they not only let light and air into our homes, but they also let us see out to our outdoor spaces too. As dull as the garden may be looking in the winter months the connection to outdoors will still be a benefit to us and lift our mood. I will always have at the forefront of my mind that, as often as possible, window treatment should enable as much light as possible into the room. Look at extending curtain poles further on either side, so that when your curtains are open, they hang clear of the windows instead of still blocking light out. Perhaps mount blinds on the outside of the window recess where appropriate. Open Voiles when you don’t need the privacy they bring- they may be semi-transparent but when every bit of light helps, you’ll be surprised how much more comes into your room without them. For this matter a good clean of your windows outside and in, if you can manage it, will allow in more light too. All these pointers mean that in the winter on dull days you’ll reap the benefits of welcoming every bit of light you can in!
Bringing in Sprigs of Colour
You don’t need grand bouquets to make an impact; sometimes the most charming displays are the most modest. Wander into the garden and snip a few seasonal sprigs—blossom, pussy willow, or the first of the daffodils. Small bud vases are perfect for dotted styling, but don't overlook your recycling bin. Small used jars with a bit of rustic ribbon or twine tied around the neck work a treat and add a lovely, lived-in feel to a windowsill or bedside table.
The Scent of Spring
Just as we discussed with metallic finishes last month, scent shouldn't be a single, overwhelming note throughout the house. Instead, think of it as a layer that enhances the feeling in a room. In those hardest-working areas like the utility or boot room, I lean towards "clean" botanical scents—think Lemon Thyme, Bergamot, or crushed Tomato Leaf. These zingy, herbal notes make the space feel instantly revived. For your hallway or living areas, let your potted hyacinths do the heavy lifting, but you can layer in candles with notes of Neroli or Bluebell to create a delicate floral trail that draws guests into the heart of the home.
Colours of the Season
When it comes to a spring palette, don’t feel you have to commit to a total room makeover or a "matchy-matchy" look. I love introducing sage greens and primrose yellows through small, effortless touches—perhaps a new linen tea towel in the utility room or a soft throw over a chair. If your home features deeper wood tones like mahogany or oak, these lighter, earthy pastels provide a wonderful juxtaposition, lifting the "weight" of the furniture. If you’re worried about it looking too sweet, ground the look with natural linen textures or terracotta pots to keep the transition feeling sophisticated and grounded.