I'm excited to hand over this months blog to the talented Suffolk based interior designer Chloe Batteson from Batteson Studio, read to the end for a little treat from us both. Hoping that you can throw open the windows and let Spring in. Happy reading! Harriet x
Spring home updates to brighten your space!
Finally, we have reached that point in the year when we start to see the first signs of Spring. It can’t help but make you feel energised and optimistic. The perfect time for a bit of a refresh, from your wardrobe to your home and the garden.
Whilst you might not be planning on a a full redecoration, certainly not every time the season changes, there are plenty of ways to make your home feel brighter and refreshed for the season ahead.
Tidy up!
OK I know it isn’t the most exciting but there’s no doubt that a good tidy up is the best place to start any refresh of your home. A spring clean is the perfect opportunity to sort through belongings and consider what you really want to keep and items that it is perhaps time to pass on.
Often the reason we end up with so much clutter is because things don’t have a proper place. Storage is so often limited in our homes and it's about using the space we do have more efficiently.
The leather storage trunks from Ginger Rose are a brilliant way to create extra storage space whilst even doubling up as a side table, the perfect spot to pop a drink or a beautiful coffee table book. And if you collect as many magazines as I do then a magazine basket is just what you need to keep them close to hand and tidy!
Those items that it’s time to move on? See what can be repaired, sold or donated. And if they really are past their best be sure to recycle them responsibly.
Let in the light
Surely one of the greatest things about Spring is that the days are finally getting longer. Brighter days can’t help but make us feel good, but are you making the most of them?
Keep your windows free from clutter and avoid pieces of furniture that block the light. Consider the layout and the placement of furniture to take full advantage of the changing light throughout the day. A well positioned chair to enjoy golden hour sunshine streaming into your home or work space will bring joy to every day.
If the sunlight is too bright use window dressings that filter rather than block light so that you benefit from those feel good rays. Light fabric options well suited to a spring aesthetic include voile and lightweight linens. If the natural light is limited use mirrors to bounce light around the space opening it up to feel lighter and brighter.
Be sure to go outside and make the most of that fresh spring air too. But don’t forget your brolly… it is spring after all! And if the rain does catch you out your return home will be smugly rewarding if you have been wise and invested in some invaluable hallway storage, this leather umbrella stand fits the bill nicely!
Spring inspired colour palettes
The best colour palettes are always found in nature and Spring is a packed full of inspiration which may be the perfect starting point for your next redecoration project.
A spring colour palette feels fresh and energising. Colours are bright yet delicate with a light warmth and work well in a space with lots of natural light.
Patterns that suits a spring aesthetic tend to be more playful, like stripes, gingham, polka dots and ditsy florals. Clean lines and lighter materials really compliment this look.
Swapping cushions and throws can be an easy way to transition interiors between Spring/Summer and Autumn/Winter introducing lighter weight materials in a softer colour palette for Spring.
Connect to nature
Connection to nature in our built environments is the key concept of biophilic design. By using natural materials we can create physical connections to nature within our homes and workspaces. Natural, organic materials are far more tactile than synthetic options and tend to wear beautifully too.
Introducing materials such as wood, stone, leather, linens will go a long way in bringing nature into your space and is particularly beneficial if you spend your day sitting in an office.
I love these leather desk accessories which paired with a plant on your desk help build on that connection to the natural world.
Botanicals and scents
Bringing flowers, branches and cuttings into your home is a year round pleasure and especially so in Spring.
My favourite flowers to welcome spring into your home are
Daffodils, Lily of the valley, Hellebore, Cherry blossom, Tulips
If you aren’t able to pick your own flowers or buy from a local market then you introduce those botanical and outdoor scents with candles, reed diffusers or hand soap like the Norfolk Natural Living Coastal Walk set.
Spring Offer
Introducing just a few of these suggestions will help make your home feel fresh for spring, but if you are feeling ready for a new colour scheme, a redecoration or a full renovation, Batteson Studio offers a range of interior design services including a Colour Consultation with your own custom colour palette from just £175.
Ginger Rose clients receive 10% off a Colour or Home Consultation (virtual or in person) booked before 31st May. Use the code gingerrosespring or contact Chloé to discuss.
Ginger Rose is also offering 20% off with the code SPRING20 until May 31st on their leather home collection.