Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Season's change

There is a fundamental desire to redo your outlook when the seasons change. Especially with the onset of spring and summer. I immediately want to be OUTSIDE!

The next best thing to being outside is to bring that fresh new air, blossoms and greenery into your home environment. That can be accomplished with some simple tricks such as using new throw pillows or new, lighter window dressings.

I love the look of white sheer curtains on a summer window. However, with the upswing in the outside temperature, a good insulating window covering is very important. But it doesn't have to block out the sun and create a dungeon feel in your home. Utilizing multiple layers on your windows can create a barrier to the heat and still allow maximum versatility in your visibility.

Those lovely smocked voile sheers can be use over a nice shade - roman or other style - or a set of shutters set inside the window frame. If that doesn't provide enough insulation, top that with a nice, light colored drape hung higher than the sheers and extending over the sides of the window. These can be pulled aside so that the entire window is open when the temps and the moods allow.

Come to think of it, layering is a great way to deal with the home and you when contending with the variations of temperatures and moods. I love to wear a cool outfit for the summer heat, but always carry something to ward off the chill of excessive air conditioning or just a too cool draft.

Don't forget to bring some fresh foliage inside, too. I love flowers and potted plants, but just simple greenery from your yard can make the inside a lot more pleasant and summer styled. And plants help to clean the air, an especially good thing after you home has been closed for the winter.