the art of seasonal styling

LIFESTYLE

WRITTEN BY NICOLA KELLY

MARCH 23, 2025

Simple Swaps to Refresh Your Space

With just a few simple changes, you can transform your home from a warm and cosy winter retreat into a bright and fresh spring to summer paradise. I believe that soft furnishings and carefully chosen accessories can make all the difference in achieving a seasonal refresh.

Although some Interior trends are gorgeous and great to follow, if you're not planning on redecorating any time soon, the best way to incorporate trends is through accessories.

In this article:

01 The Turning Point

02 Sharing My Journey

03 The Power of Journalling

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In my own living space, I embrace lighter-coloured cushions, thinner throws, and small lanterns with spring-scented candles during the warmer months. Then, as the seasons shift and the nights draw in, I swap them out for darker-toned cushions, thicker blankets, and rich cinnamon-scented candles. Wood, kindling, and homemade firelighters in a basket near the fireplace further enhance the cosy winter ambiance.

Even small decorative changes, such as switching up framed prints, can refresh a room's look. I suggest a beautiful ‘Dove’ print from Slinky Prints for the spring and summer months, while a festive word art piece from Gayle Mansfield Designs can bring warmth and charm during the colder seasons. These small yet effective changes can completely transform a room’s atmosphere.

If you’re looking for additional ways to refresh your home throughout the year, here are a few simple swaps that can make a big difference:

SWAP OUT RUGS A thick, plush rug feels great in winter, but for spring and summer, consider a lighter, woven or jute rug to bring in a more airy feel.

CURTAIN REFRESH Heavy, thermal curtains are perfect for winter, but switching to linen or sheer curtains in spring allows more natural light to flow in, making your space feel bright and open.

UPDATE TABLE SETTINGS Swap out dark, rich table runners and napkins for lighter, pastel or floral prints to bring in a fresh seasonal touch.

BRING NATURE INDOORS Incorporate fresh flowers, potted plants, or even branches with budding leaves to add an organic element that reflects the season.

SWITCH UP SCENTS Beyond candles, try diffusers or room sprays in citrus, lavender, or fresh linen scents for spring and summer, then transition to woodsy, spiced aromas in winter.

REARRANGE FURNITURE In winter, seating arrangements tend to be closer to fireplaces and cozy corners, whereas in summer, opening up the space or positioning chairs near windows can enhance natural light and airflow.

LAYERED LIGHTING Use warm, low lighting for a cozy winter feel and brighter, cooler-toned bulbs or fairy lights in spring to create a fresh, inviting glow. Philips Hue bulbs are a great addition to any home, allowing you to change up the tone and even colour of the light.

I firmly believe in the power of interiors to shape a home. Design can do so much—it can inspire, energise, and calm you. With the right combination of colours, patterns, and textures, a room can be completely transformed.

about the author

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Nicola is an interior designer with a passion for creating beautifully curated, functional spaces that truly feel like home. After earning a Diploma in Interior Design, she built her career around helping homeowners bring their vision to life whether it’s refreshing a single room or re-imagining an entire home. Working on residential & commercial properties, and supporting property developers.

With a focus on warmth, texture, and practicality, Nicola believes that every home should be a reflection of its owners personality and lifestyle. She blends creativity with a keen eye for detail to make interior design an exciting, accessible experience for all.

Along with her Interior Design Services and Remote Design Packages, Nicola also runs popular Introduction to Interior Design Workshops, offering attendees the chance to become their own interior designer in their homes.

Precious Time Design has been featured in Oxfordshire & Somerset Living Magazine, The Sunday Mirror, and Mum2Mum Mag, dedicated to sharing expert advice, inspiration, and practical solutions to help you transform your home.

nicola

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