Spruce up your home for spring

With those cold and dreary winter months almost behind us it's time to warm things up! Other than the inevitable cleaning frenzy here are a few tips on how to prepare your home for the budding season:

1. Get organized!

Say goodbye to your clutter and unnecessary accessories. Neatly store away those heavy layers, unsightly snow shovels, and pine scented candles. For those of you really lagging behind, those holiday lights are well past their expiration date! Everything should have a proper "home" or it probably deserves to be in the trash. Find what you need to get organized just across the river at the Cherry Hill Container Store or check them out here.

2. Change things up.

An easy way to give your home a refreshing look is to change out your accessories. Swap out your drab throw pillows with bright and colorful substitutes. Your sofa will feel revived! Put your tax return toward new pieces of art, such as bold paintings and photographs. If that money was already put aside for the kids' braces then simply take your favorite vibrant fabric or wallpaper sample and throw it in a frame for instant artwork!  Check out this local photographer for inspiration or to start your collection!

3. Stay focused.

While a focal point is a key element to a successful room layout you may be lucky enough to have more than one! A great view always trumps a fireplace or television so rearrange your furniture to face your newly green surroundings or irreplaceable view of Center City. Don't forget to tidy up your deck or patio, with some added outdoor furnishings and newly potted plants.

4. Bring the outdoors in.

Replace silk flowers and artificial foliage with the real thing. A fresh bouquet of flowers does wonders for the senses! The variety of textures combined with the pleasant aroma can make the perfect centerpiece. A tall tree can serve as a great vertical element in a room, giving height to an otherwise empty space.

5. Lighten the mood.

Exposure to natural light can significantly improve your mood. Consider replacing heavy window treatments with sheer or lightweight cotton fabrics to really let in the light. Rooms without windows or adequate sun exposure can have the same effect with appropriate lighting fixtures. For unique and contemporary fixtures check out this showroom on 232 N. 2nd Street.