We Canadians love our backyards, and no wonder. We have been spending so much time at home with COVID-19 that we love to spend more time outside. And stay out there – listening to the birds, the burble of a water feature, watching the sun set, connecting with friends and family, even at a distance.

As the pace of life quickens and our homes shrink in size, the outdoors is literally the last frontier – and the reason why we’re spending so much more on making the backyard, or deck or balcony a destination oasis.

Out with the white plastic chairs and plexiglass tables, in with the fire pits and heaters giving us a much longer outdoor season, deep-seated sectional sofas, teak dining tables and chairs, and strings of lights. Outdoor furniture manufacturers have been eager to meet our need to linger outside with a wider range of furniture, with longer lasting frames, fabrics that retain their shape and water resistance, and cushion foam that stays comfortable.

Here’s what you need to know:

1) Plan out your space according to how you intend to use the deck. If you are a big reader or sun worshipper, but don’t like eating al fresco, set up your space with more living room type furnishings, and tuck a small dining table off to the side and out of the way.

2) Check materials carefully. There’s teak, treated pine, metal mixed with wood, solid aluminum, stainless and wrought iron. Of these, teak and aluminum last the longest, and are probably the most expensive. Teak you need to baby a bit, while aluminum just wipes clean.

3) Consider modular furniture – pieces that fit together as a sectional or stand alone as chairs – for flexibility. You can change the seating arrangement to suit the occasion or your mood.

4) Decks aren’t just for daytime. Small white lights are magical when strung from house to tree. Add candles around the edges of your deck or patio – flameless ones are safer. An ethanol fire pit not only creates mood, but keeps feet warm and can easily be moved around.

5) Music really adds to the ambience – not so loud that your guests can’t hear each other or the neighbours complain, but as background.

6) As for styles, the sky’s the limit, and they can reflect your dream destinations, or they can reflect the decor of your home. Fancy a week in the Hamptons? Check out sectionals in whitewashed and weathered greys – made from resin wicker – with East Coast fabrics such as navy and white stripes (in water repellant fabrics). Prefer life in a Park Avenue brownstone? Then wrought iron with deep charcoal cushions set amidst a row of boxwoods might be better for you.

7) Don’t forget the floor – wood flooring tiles are easy to install, and create an immediate room setting, especially with the concrete of a condo balcony. Add an outdoor rug to pull it all together.

8) There’s nothing like dining al fresco, and if you’re the type who likes tons of people over, an expandable table might be the best choice. Classic wrought iron tables look great and last forever but are pricey. There’s always teak, but it’s pricey, too, so check out budget-friendly teak alternatives that work equally well. If your deck is on the small side, go for stackable dining chairs.

9) Stow outdoor dining essentials – bright coloured table mats and napkins, covered lanterns or candle holders – near the back door or in a waterproof storage bench. Make sure to keep throws handy to ward off the evening chill.

10) An umbrella will shade the table from the sun and rain; one with a tilt arm that can be adjusted to follow the sun all day. The new pergolas do the same and more, especially when fitted with a retractable canopy system or screen to protect against bugs.

11) For privacy, especially on a condo balcony, you can create a privacy wall by positioning a row of evergreens in matching containers along the edges of your deck. Erect lattice or bamboo screening, then add wall mounted planters and a water feature for an instant retreat.

12) Depending on the space you have, hammocks are well worthwhile for the downtime they afford – snoozing or watching the stars. Add colourful pillows and a sea of planters for a cosy destination.

13) Containers are the way to go for gardening. They come in all shapes and sizes and materials (remember that resin is lighter and therefore easier to move). Depending on the direction they face, condo balconies are ideal for herbs and tomatoes, but they need a lot of water, so make sure you have proper drainage. Tropical plants love sun and add a festive air to your deck – you can also bring them in come fall. If you have less direct sunlight, fill tall tapered containers with ornamental grasses for a clean, modern and minimalist look.

14) Just like inside, the deck is made livelier with the addition of some artwork, such as wrought iron grills, architectural salvage, window frames (with or without mirrored glass).

In the end, if you choose any of these tips, who needs a cottage?

Seasons are a splendid excuse for revamping, sprucing, and enhancing your interior design. Winter is turning a corner, so inviting new pieces and experimenting with fresh colors and lines is the thing to do. We asked for expert advice from our team of professional interior designers and with buzzing anticipation, here are several spring decorating ideas that will make your space pop, blossom, and bloom.

1. Raw Wood: Spring Decorating Essential

Coastal dining room with spring home decor by Decorilla interior designer, Corine M.

Wood is an essential material in creating comfort, warmth and organic beauty to a space. By keeping it raw, the tones, grooves, and imperfections act as a work of art in your spring interior design. Found in the form of a side table, wall art, or even spanning across the ceiling, for example, this is definitely nature’s spring decorating idea.

Need help deciding which spring decorating ideas will freshen up your home? Then, schedule your Free Interior Design Consultation for expert assistance getting started today!

2. Pastel and Bright Accents in Spring Home Decor

Bright living room for a fresh spring interior design by Decorilla interior designer, Michelle B.

Pastels are just synonymous with spring and do the perfect job at freshening up your spring home decor. Both gentle and airy, these hues offer an environment of tranquility so greatly desired in our fast-paced, hectic lives. Whether as accent pillows, wall color or decor pieces, these pastels in spring home decor add a softness that comes with springtime. In contrast, bright colors can also be used for a more bold use of color reminiscent of vibrant spring blooms. 

3. Mindful Spring Decorating Ideas

Design accents by Decorilla interior designer, Corrine M.

As the first season of the year, Spring inspires reflecting and goal making. Also among interior design trends 2021, sustainable repurposing is making a statement in homes across the country. Dive into some serious spring cleaning by purging of unnecessary books and knick-knacks. Decorilla designer, Ivonne T., suggests up cycling as a perfect spring decorating idea. Give an outdated console table new life with a fresh coat of paint or reupholster an armchair. Let your creativity run wild. 

4. Spring Decorating Ideas: Make Neutrals Pop

Timeless bedroom by Decorilla interior designer, Joseph G.

If pastels aren’t your thing, this spring decorating idea is one that’s tried and true. Neutrals do the trick of both opening a space and creating a canvas for accentuated pieces of decor.

Color pop can be bold and vitalizing or subtle and moving. Either way, infusing a space with fun pillows, a dramatic abstract painting, or a single saturated accent chair can certainly add new life to your interior design.

5. Textured Pottery in Spring Home Decor

A popular trend seen in spring interior design is the use of textured ceramics or pottery as accent decor. In color or neutral, bowls and vases with tactile lines and patterns add an interesting dimension. Leave the vases to make a statement on their own or fill them will seasonal florals for an added freshness in your spring home decor. 

6. Add A Statement Pendant

Cozy library by Decorilla interior designer, Michelle B.

Chandeliers have a way of ooh-ing and ahh-ing but this spring, make a statement with a funky, fab, beautiful pendant. Oversized or whimsical, these lighting fixtures become an instant focal point and design refresher. A professional designer can assist with the perfect selection and overall interior design help.

7. Update Bedding With Playful Sheets 

Teen bedroom with spring home decor bedding by Decorilla interior designer, Lauren A.

This year, we’re veering from plain white sheets towards more playful and colorful options. Natural motifs like birds and flowers are simple spring decorating ideas that bring the outside in. Bold shapes and patterns also add a gaiety to the bedroom design. Furthermore, be sure to choose lighter fabrics for the warmer weather on its way. 

8. Muted Metallics in Spring Home Decor

Living/dining room by Decorilla interior designer, Corine M.

Gone are the winter days that beckon the use of shiny finishes to share light in spaces. Low shine accent decor is a great spring decorating idea that keeps metallics in the mix. Lamps and furniture that have antiqued or brushed metallic finishes offer a weathered, vintage look that is beautiful and subtle.

Light and airy spring interior design for a new build bedroom by Decorilla interior designer, Tina G.

Welcome this new season with these spring decorating ideas to freshen up your home decor. Incorporating one or more of these interior design trends for spring will help you create a seasonably stylish home that’s sure to feel classy and welcoming for family and friends.