HOW TO SPRING CLEAN LIKE A DESIGNER
As the days grow longer and the air feels lighter, with windows open and birdsong on the breeze, it’s the perfect time to bring a sense of calm and renewal within our spaces. Spring cleaning often brings to mind dusting and scrubbing every inch of our homes, but the real magic comes when you approach it with a designer’s mindset. A thoughtful spring refresh doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. It’s about simplifying, letting go of what no longer serves us, and styling our space to reflect the ease of the season. Today we’re sharing how to approach spring cleaning like a designer, with a focus on beauty, balance, and warmth.
ENTERING OUR EDIT ERA
Before you clean, edit. This is a great time to reassess what you have and what still aligns with your personal style and values. Walk through each room with a discerning eye and ask yourself the following questions:
Do I love this piece?
Does it reflect my current style?
Does this piece still reflect the energy I want in my home?
Is it adding to the sense of warmth and ease I want in this space?
Let go of any items that feel heavy or out of sync with your current aesthetic. For those items that still have life but no longer fit your personal style, donate or repurpose rather than simply discarding them. That piece might just be the thing someone else has been searching for.
“For those items that still have life but no longer fit your personal style, donate or repurpose rather than simply discarding them. That piece might just be the thing someone else has been searching for.”
LIGHTEN UP
It’s time to put away those heavier layers that kept you cozy all winter long. Clearing out these heavier textures will instantly make your space feel lighter and more open. Start by washing and storing throws, flannel sheets and wool pillow covers. (We love washing these textiles in a lavender infused detergent for a calming scent.) then swap those heavier textiles for lighter fabrics like linen and cotton. These natural materials not only feel softer against the skin but also allow for better airflow, making your home feel fresh and inviting as the weather warms up.
Additionally, embrace this seasonal shift by mixing patterns like florals, stripes, and gingham to add subtle visual interest—just make sure to keep the tones cohesive for a harmonious look. A soft, nature-inspired palette of creamy whites, soft greens, and muted yellows will create a calming foundation for your space.
DETAIL CHECK
Polished trim and casings instantly make a room feel more refined and put together. Clean and dust baseboards, window casings and any crown molding to highlight the structure and craftsmanship of your space. Next, focus on natural wood elements like beams, floors and furniture. Clean and condition to enhance their warmth and patina. Well-maintained wood adds a rich, organic feel to a space and helps ground the overall design. If you have exposed beams or original wood floors, let them take center stage with simple decor to create a balanced and harmonious look.
SPRING FLING
Refresh your mantel and coffee table styling with spring elements like fresh flowers, branches, and natural textures. Incorporate organic textures like wood and wicker to ground the space and reflect the season’s natural warmth. Adding fresh greenery or branches helps soften the overall look and brings a sense of life to the room. Remember: less is always more when creating a sense of calm and openness. Decluttering gives your pieces more breathing room to allow each element to stand out without feeling crowded. Group objects in odd numbers and vary the heights to create visual balance and natural flow.
Lastly, consider shifting your furniture to take advantage of the changing light patterns as the days grow longer. Pull seating closer together to create a more intimate, conversational flow and keep walkways open to maintain a sense of spaciousness.
BRANCH OUT
Bring the garden indoors by incorporating natural elements that reflect the freshness of spring. We like to start small with potted herbs in the kitchen. Our preference? Basil, oregano and rosemary in chipped terracotta pottery not only look charming but also add unbeatably fresh flavor to your cooking.
To enhance the organic feel, use natural materials like wicker baskets, terracotta pots, and ceramic planters. These textures add warmth and character while keeping the look relaxed and effortless. Mixing different materials and shapes creates a layered, inviting atmosphere that echoes the ease of the season.
“Basil, oregano and rosemary in chipped terracotta pottery not only look charming but also add unbeatably fresh flavor to your cooking.
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BIN THERE, DONE THAT
Update your linen closets with a more thoughtful, aesthetic approach. Start by cleaning out any clutter and folding or rolling towels and linens neatly. Adding lavender sachets or cedar blocks will keep fabrics smelling fresh while naturally deterring pests. (Cedar chips lost their scent? Use a sanding block to quickly refresh their usefulness.) Store towels and blankets in woven baskets to create a cohesive, textured look. Everyday items like dish brushes or bathroom essentials can be tucked into vintage containers for a charming, collected feel. The goal is to create a sense of order that feels natural rather than forced. Thoughtful organization not only makes your space more functional but also adds a layer of quiet beauty to your daily routine.
As you’re going through your space, remember, spring cleaning isn’t about perfection, it’s about creating a home that feels light, balanced, reflective of the season and and aligned with how you want to live. A thoughtful refresh will make your space feel more inviting and aligned with the natural rhythms of the year.
Decluttering with intention allows your home’s natural beauty to shine through. By editing with care and refreshing your styling, you can create a space that feels lighter, more harmonious, and effortlessly aligned with the season and with you.
HERE'S TO A FRESH RESET