Anxious to say good-bye to winter? These ideas will have you dreaming of spring in your affordable new UMH dream home.
Color Matters
Try a pop of color to update your look. Just an accent wall or new throw pillows can bring in the spring.
But WHAT color you wonder? We’re glad you asked.
The effect of color on mood has been studied for centuries. Stressed out? Try softer colors and shades that evoke calm and relaxation. Feeling down? Bright bold colors turn winter blues into spring fever—and add drama.
When it comes to the colors we choose to hang out in—from clothing to home interiors—our lifelong favorites usually win out. But that doesn’t stop big retailers from introducing new colors every season, inspiring us to freshen up.
How do they make their color choices? And why are they so similar from one brand to another? They look to a higher power for guidance: Pantone. Each season the company introduces a color forecast that makes its way into clothing, paint and decor. This spring’s top 10 colors are reminders of nature.
Let It Shine
A 50-year-old requires twice as much light as a 30-year-old, according to the American Lighting Association. But all of us could benefit from a little more light in our lives after a long dark winter:
Create layers of light to improve feel and function in your home. Consumer Reports recommends three layers:
- Ambient light from a recessed canister or chandelier for overall illumination.
- Task lighting in the form of desk lamps or under-cabinet LEDs.
- Accent lighting, such as a spotlight over a picture frames.
Mirrors make any space seem larger and brighter by reflecting natural light: Add an oversized mirror that can sit on the floor, or a grouping of small mirrors, found in second-hand stores, which can be an inexpensive addition to any wall.
Spruce Up & Cut Down
Spruce up your backyard and reduce your weekend chores at the same time.
- Replace a section of grass with native plantings, gravel or even wood chips for a natural look and less maintenance.
- Generally, horticulturists recommend keeping your lawn between 3-4 1/2 inches to prevent thin, weak blades, however, best practices may vary by region. Consult your UMH community guidelines for specific information.
- Plant a small garden for a therapeutic hobby that also pays dividends in the form of fresh veggies.