12 ways to freshen up your home for spring — that have nothing to do with cleaning

When the weather warms, most of us head outside. But after a long, dreary, glacial winter, it’s time to embrace spring’s heady brilliance and heat inside as well as outside our homes. Plus, it’s always a good time to update our homes when the seasons change. For some inventive ideas, we asked three interior designers to give us their favorite tips on how to bring spring home.

Brooke Lang

Brooke Lang Design, brookelang.com

Don’t waste any time. “Before it starts warming up, I’m already trading out pillows, drapes and updating outdoor spaces for my clients. And I never miss The Merchandise Mart’s Outdoor Furniture Sample Sale every spring (this year May 2-4),” Brooke Lang says.

Summery new glassware: Trading out something as simple as your glassware works wonders for your decor and your mood. It’s also fast, effective and economical. If budget allows, you can go for new dishware too. My favorite source is CB2 for great design, great quality and great price points. This spring, I’m eyeing Spun Light Pink Barware, complete with bubbles from the hand-blowing process and a dreamy, cotton-candy finish.

Easy drapery updates: Go light in heft and hue with Belgian linen sheers. For the ready-made version, I use Pottery Barn’s Belgian Flax Linen Sheer Curtains or Rivera Stripe Roman Shades.

Paint color: Benjamin Moore Varsity Blues 756. It’s vibrant yet sophisticated as a backdrop in any space.

Jessica Lagrange

Jessica Lagrange Interiors, jessicalagrange.com

“Change out textiles — from table and bed linens to drapes and slipcovers — for lighter and brighter options. It’s transformative. You not only see your home in an entirely new way, you use it differently too,” Lagrange says.

Start with the floor: Lagrange says that changing out area carpets can be even more effective. “We love to replace plush wool carpets with colorful flat weaves or sleek sisals for a fresh, clean effect.” Merida Studio and Elizabeth Eakins are our go-to lines but are to-the-trade only. For ready-made options try West Elm and Serena & Lily.

Lighten up lighting: Lagrange says to trade out serious metal pendant fixtures for woven rattan versions for a tropical vibe. Try Restoration Hardware for great options.

Paint color: C2-638, Sisal. It’s so soft, pretty and fresh, and reads like a neutral but is not. The name says it all.

Summer Thornton

Summer Thornton Design, summerthorntondesign.com

“Spring is all about freshness and the return of nature — from fresh lime-green grass to bright crocuses popping up through the lingering snow. I incorporate elements inside that nod to what’s happening outside,” Summer Thornton says.

Add Mother Nature to the mix: Besides swapping out darker pillows and lampshades for lighter versions with floral or global patterns, I always add fresh-cut flowers or hyacinth bulbs, and accessories that show transition, such as naturally shed antlers with fresh tulips.

Paint wood floors a fresh color: We often add pattern to the mix and have done everything from simple strips to bold geometric designs. The point is to have fun with it, says Thornton.

Paint color: Farrow & Ball Pink Ground, No. 202. It’s a soft, fresh color that’s not too sweet.

Lisa Skolnik is a freelance writer.