Spring is a time of hope and change, even more so this year with the compelling change of administration. With the economic hardships that are apparent across the country and around the globe, many may feel that changing their home’s look with the change of season this year would be too extravagant. In reality, the coming season is calling for simplicity, which can be accomplished in a few easy steps. This spring, whether in home décor or fashion, people and designers will be opting for simple choices, ones that inspire comfort. In-your-face, over-the-top designs are a thing of the past, which works well with my personal style. I always strive to create inviting environments that people feel comfortable in, that they can relax in, whether I am designing a home or hotel, or even hosting an event in my own home. It is important for people to feel welcome.

Simple details make all of the difference in the world. For example, when hosting a dinner party, I often put decorative throw pillows on the chairs and have wraps readily available for guests should they become chilly. Not only do these extra touches enhance people’s comfort level, but they also add to the overall ambiance. I keep the color scheme in check with the rest of the décor, including the centerpiece, which is of utmost importance. You don’t want the centerpiece to be too large, loud, or distracting, but a conversation piece is always a good choice.  When I am not hosting a dinner party, my large dining room table is completely covered with a variety of pieces, from busts and vases to kaleidoscopes and sculptures. Rearranging, adding, and removing these accessories helps update the look without forcing a total makeover, as would be the case if I used one large centerpiece.

Fresh flowers also play a large role in creating a welcoming environment. For my every day, I often use monochromatic arrangements placed intermittently throughout the household. When preparing for larger gatherings, opt for something larger and brighter, as flowers can really liven up any space.

The main thing to keep in mind is that updating a look for the coming season doesn’t have to break the bank. It can be as simple as moving an accent piece from one room to another. It is an easy way to bring a new life and a new feel to a space. In my own home, I am constantly rearranging in hopes of finding the ideal harmony. When things start to feel a little stale, I will move a piece of furniture, artwork, lighting, or even an accessory from one part of the house to another. Having a painting or a sconce in a different room helps change the focal point, therefore altering its entire feel. Experiment and see what you can come up with-you could end up changing the ambiance of your entire home without so much as opening your wallet.

When you do opt for new pieces, avoid trends and choose pieces that you really love. The coming season will be filled with classic styles that will stand the test of time. The new collection of soft home goods that I am debuting with Sferra is reflective of this trend. The line is influenced by my travels, fashion (such as the vintage jewelry pieces that inspired the napkin rings), and my own home.  From decorative throw pillows and throws to dinner napkins, napkin rings, and fine bed linens, the line gives people a way to update their looks for the coming seasons without doing a complete overhaul. The collection offers an mélange of texture, color, and patterns in a soft and subtle palette that is so reflective of the current times. When designing the line, I worked to create classic looks that will continue to be in style for many coming seasons.