It’s Spring at last; the snowdrops have gone, the daffodils are out and the tulips are blooming in all their glorious colours. After the dull and cold winter months, the sun starts to stream in through our windows – a perfect time to think about refreshing and updating our homes. Here are some ideas to help you get started.

Colours that say ‘now’

The simplest and most cost-effective way of redecorating is to use paint. There is so much choice of paint colours available now – and you don’t have to stick to grey.

The current trend is for warmer, softer tints – think blush pink or soft coral. There’s even talk of beige coming back – you heard it here first! If you fancy trying one of the new stronger hues like teal or forest green you can always use it on a feature wall.

Farrow and Ball is still the go-to place for inspiration, or you can have your favourite colours made up for you at your local DIY store.

A trend for prints

A quick and easy way to brighten up your interiors is with new cushions and throws. Swap wool and faux fur for cotton and linen fabrics in one of the gorgeous new floral or botanical prints (great for outdoor furniture too). Add a throw in a soft colour for those cooler evenings.

You could also recover a tired old chair with a bright new fabric which always works. If you are replacing your curtains, try something lighter in a paler shade – think soft voile or textured linen, and partner with shutters or blinds for extra privacy. You’ll be amazed how much lighter and brighter your room looks.

The new naturals

Natural materials are a great spring/summer option for rugs and furniture, and are currently very much on trend – good for the environment too. Try swapping heavy wool rugs for seagrass or coir. If you are considering upgrading your furniture, think bamboo and rattan for a more relaxed feel.

I was in Australia at the beginning of the year and I noticed lots of beautiful low woven rattan chairs, often styled with neutral or tropical print fabrics and big green plants. I felt I just wanted to sink into them with my favourite cocktail.

An extra stylish touch

It’s always good to add that special personal touch to your home. I particularly love coloured glass and textured ceramics. Look out for unusual colours or shapes for glasses and vases to add a dash of style to your scheme.

Smaller interiors shops are a good hunting ground for these. I found a beautiful pale aqua ribbed vase in a local Nordic interiors shop and I fill it with masses of pink tulips. It lifts my spirits every time I walk into my sitting room.

Now all you need to do is pick up your paintbrush and have fun restyling your home.