As spring arrives, many Canadians are eager to refresh their living spaces, shedding the deep, rich colors of winter for softer pastels and vibrant hues. This seasonal shift not only reflects a change in nature but also a desire to rejuvenate homes after months of hibernation. Designers across the country are offering advice on how to embrace this transformation without breaking the bank.
Vasili Benja, a contractor from Ontario, emphasizes that making small changes can have a significant impact. "Painting your front door or changing one room to a brighter color can make your home feel new," he suggests. Such simple alterations can invigorate a space and uplift spirits, especially after a long, cold winter.
Glen Peloso, a renowned Canadian designer, echoes this sentiment, stating, "It’s never too late to make decor and seasonal changes, except for holidays like Christmas, Easter, and Halloween." His extensive experience in designing both commercial and residential spaces has shown him that the warmer months allow for a wide range of decor possibilities. He encourages homeowners to draw inspiration from nature, particularly tulips, which showcase a spectrum of colors from deep purples to soft pastels.
For those looking to make impactful changes, Peloso suggests focusing on accessories. "Pillow covers and floral spring wreaths can dramatically change the look without breaking the budget," he notes. Accessories can easily be swapped out to reflect the season, providing a fresh feel without the need for a complete overhaul.
When it comes to textiles, Peloso recommends selecting lighter fabrics such as linen, cotton, and raw silk for toss cushions and throw blankets. As temperatures rise, it’s also wise to lighten up bed linens and switch to pastel bath towels. "Turkish towels are a great option for warmer weather, serving multiple purposes from bath to beach," he adds.
Another trend gaining traction is maximalism, which embraces layered patterns and eclectic accessories. Peloso advises homeowners to mix and match items from their past, creating a unique look that reflects their personality. "The look is intense and eclectic, so feel free to pull out the things from your past that you love," he suggests.
For those considering more substantial changes, Peloso mentions that wall paint and wallpapers can create a dramatic transformation. Combining colors like soft peaches or coral with pastel greens can breathe new life into a room. Additionally, cleaning windows is a simple yet effective way to brighten a home, allowing more natural light to flood in.
For practical storage solutions, floating shelves are a stylish option that can declutter spaces while adding aesthetic appeal. These shelves are versatile and can be used in various rooms, including kitchens and living areas.
As spring progresses, neutral and pastel tones are ideal for reintroducing seasonal colors into bedrooms. Vintage rugs with floral patterns can also subtly nod to the floral trend that accompanies the season. Moreover, for those looking to upgrade their kitchens or bathrooms without a complete renovation, peel-and-stick backsplashes can provide an affordable and stylish solution.
While many are eager to embrace the new season, some designers are reflecting on past trends that have fallen out of favor. Mark Schubert of Phillip Harrison Interiors notes that the midcentury modern (MCM) design market became oversaturated about a decade ago. "It felt somewhat nostalgic at first, but the aesthetic turned up everywhere, making it less special," he explains.
Designer Amy Elbaum of AE Design shares her regret over the chevron pattern trend, which she believes has become too bold and high-contrast for modern tastes. Similarly, Mikel Welch expresses his cringe over the Ikat fabric trend, stating that it feels too chaotic for his current minimalist aesthetic.
Designer Ali Budd reflects on her past use of low-quality chrome pieces, which she now sees as lacking integrity. "It’s not about trends—it’s about quality and respect for design," she asserts. Over-the-top glam furniture has also fallen out of favor, according to Kristy Turner of Melanie Turner Interiors, who indicates that people are now favoring understated elegance.
Amidst these changing trends, some elements remain timeless. Mikel Welch champions slipcovered sofas in natural fabrics and weathered wood furniture for their enduring appeal. Neutral hues, as explained by Elbaum, consistently remain in style, allowing homeowners to evolve their decor without the need for a complete redesign.
Quality antiques are also highlighted as timeless pieces that can add character to any space. Alicia Held-Morris points to Hans Wegner dining chairs, which combine beauty and comfort, making them a lasting choice for any home.
As public spaces evolve, so too do the concepts of wellness in home design. Gonzalo Bueno, a designer from Dallas, notes that wellness rooms are becoming increasingly popular, featuring elements like meditation spaces and small home gyms. "These spaces are designed for retreat and recharging, reflecting a growing awareness of the importance of self-care," he explains.
In a recent renovation project in Austin, Texas, Bueno's team created an outdoor Zen garden complemented by a meditation room and a soaking tub, emphasizing the importance of tranquility in home design. He believes that a wellness room should be a private sanctuary where one can escape the outside world, finding peace and quiet.
With the arrival of spring, Canadians are not just looking to refresh their homes; they are also reflecting on their past design choices and embracing timeless elements that resonate with their personal style. Whether through simple changes or embracing new trends, the goal is to create spaces that feel alive and inviting as the season unfolds.
