Rain and grey skies have covered the country almost every day of the new year, so now that spring is starting to emerge, the sprouting crocuses and peaking sun rays are giving us a taste of the brightness and warmth we’ve been craving.
This month, interest in spring porch décor is up 4000% compared to last month, according to Pinterest, as many feel ready to welcome in the new season, and what better place to start than your entryway.
Steven Dempsey, style consultant at Shutterly Fabulous, shares his tips for creating an inviting spring entryway.
A floral wreath should take centre stage
Steven Dempsey, style consultant at Shutterly Fabulous, shares his tips for creating an inviting spring entryway.
A floral wreath should take centre stage
Wreaths aren’t just for Christmas; searches show interest in ‘spring wreath’s’ is up by half (50%) in the last 10 days.
Steven says, “Seasonal blooms perfectly depict growth and light after the winter months, and what better way to welcome the change than with a wreath adorning your front door. It’s a timeless way to welcome the colours of spring into your home. Some of the best spring flowers to choose from include lavender, crocuses, snow drops, bluebells and daffodils, all of which complement each other beautifully and will bring a soft and uplifting touch to your doorstep.
“It’s easy to create your own, and this way you can choose your own combination – you can even make it a spring activity with friends. Homemade wreaths will add a personal and sentimental touch.”
Make your porch bloom with vines and pots
“While a floral wreath makes a striking first impression, the addition of flowers shouldn’t stop there. This is the season to let plants become the main attraction throughout the home’s interior and exterior. From clusters of daffodils on a kitchen table to planting your favourite cuttings in the garden, but in terms of bringing them to centre stage at the front of your home, consider small touches like potted lavender and other spring flowers on the doorstep, or create a statement with cascading lavender vines outlining your doorway.”
Searches for ‘lavender’ increased by 75% this month, while interest in ‘trellis’ is up by 138%2, signalling a clear desire of homeowners to decorate the exterior of their homes and gardens.
Shutters anchor floral elements
Steven says, “Shutters instantly add visual interest to your front facing windows and create structure, which helps to anchor softer seasonal elements like florals and trailing vines. They are also perfect for allowing the first of the spring light to filter in” says Steven.
“Opt for classic wooden shutters in light neutrals, sage green or soft heritage blues that will complement fresh greenery and flowers or choose white for a more traditional cottage aesthetic. They add depth and character, which give your porch a layered, thoughtfully styled finish that lasts well beyond the season.”
Porch chairs welcome in the season
Porch chairs welcome in the season
Incorporating a rocking chair or any statement outdoor chair on your front doorstep, provided you have the space, is another way to refresh for spring and welcome in the season.
“Seating outside the home instantly makes it feel lived in and inviting rather than purely decorative,” Steven advises. A classic wooden rocking chair in white, sage, natural wood or even pastel yellow if you’re feeling bold, nods to timeless Americana porches, while a woven rattan or painted metal chair will create a lighter, English garden-inspired feel.
“Layer it with a striped cushion or a soft throw for cooler spring evenings. Not only does a chair on the porch look inviting, but it turns it into a place to linger for a morning coffee in the spring sun or to unwind and watch the sunset as the nights grow longer.”
Photo by Gene Samit: https://www.pexels.com/photo/charming-porch-with-potted-geranium-flowers-35979463/