Why Spring is a Great Time for Home Improvements

As signs of new life burst all around us we often turn our attention to our gardens, however it’s also the perfect time to think about making improvements inside your home. I’ll share 10 reasons why.

1. Natural light. As the days become longer and brighter we start to see our homes in a new light. I’ve shared before just how important it is to understand the light in your home before making decisions on choosing colours, window placement and room layouts. For north facing rooms you need to be cautious of cooler tones (blues, green and grey) and either embrace dark colours or bring warmth by choosing colours with undertones of pink, gold and yellow. If your room is south facing you will be blessed with light all day and can take your pick of soft colours, blues and greens will soften the brightness.

2. Energy. There is no denying that as we see the bulbs emerge and go out without a coat (sometimes), we have an extra spring in our step, feelings of excitement and anticipation. This positive energy is needed when setting goals and embarking on a new project. Use this reset to evaluate your home, is it bringing you positive feelings? Is it organised, purposeful and enriching your lifestyle? Write down your grand plan and divide it into achievable goals over the next three seasons.

3. Time. More hours of daylight is a practical consideration if you’re going to be doing some of the work yourself, especially painting! Although the day is still the same length it feels as though we have more time before hitting the hay, so when you finish work you’ll still be able to put your positive energy to good use ripping out, decorating and hanging pictures. You’ll possibly work with tradesmen/women who are happy to do an extra hour or two in an evening as well.

4. Eating out. Living without a kitchen is a challenge and an experience you would never forget (I lived with a makeshift kitchen during an extension and full renovation project for thirteen months). Using a BBQ and eating outside was a simple adjustment to make life easier. Friends and family are often hosting BBQ’s and are more willing to go and sit outside a pub for tea, which makes kitchen-less dining a dream!

5. Warmer days make it more practical for having windows open whilst work takes place, or windows replaced. If you need to repair or replace the roof, again the weather is kinder.

6. Decluttering. Spring cleaning historically followed a winter of fires burning which created lots of dirt in the home, however having a thorough clean and declutter has a significant impact on our health. Not only does your home benefit from a germ busting scrub and a flush of fresh air, but cleaning and organising can be stress boosting, reduce anxiety and give clarity.

7. Discounts. It seems there are sales all year round, there are certainly seasonal sales for most retailers. However if you shop smart, and shop early, you can monitor prices over a few months so you secure what you want at the best price. Don’t be afraid to ask for discounts too, especially if you’re buying a high volume. You can use my budgeting and planning spreadsheet to save your favourite three choices and track the prices.

8. Property market. Estate agents traditionally see a surge of properties coming to the market over spring months, home owners have spent the evenings making little changes, bank holidays have been put to use adding curb appeal and people cross their fingers for a completion before the summer holiday. Therefore if you’re making improvements to add value and seal a deal on your next home, now is a good time to get your plans in motion. If moving is your goal you might find most read blog about renovating for profit to be helpful.

9. Winter proofing. Our seasons soon change and if you’ve noticed problems that have been highlighted by the winter weather, for example damp, condensation, loose tiles, unreliable heating and draughts, those problems won’t go away on their own. Book in now with the experts to have the problem corrected before next winter.

10. Timelines. Designers and trades are now taking bookings for the end of the year (and for some there is a waiting list beyond that). Choosing to start working with an interior designer now will mean your final scheme will be prepared by June. Then construction, and decoration can begin, working with an interior designer will also mean your furniture is ordered to be delivered right on time. Installation and final finishes can be completed as we approach Autumn when it’s time to spend more time relaxing indoors.

I’ll be taking my own advice and getting down to the finer details on our own home which will be starting at the end of the year, however I’m taking bookings for new projects and launching my e-design service in May. If you have a design dilemma I’d love to help.

Happy planning,

Charlotte