REFRESH! Eight Home Updates for Spring by Pam Molnar
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pring is a time of renewal. Nature evolves from the bleak winter dullness to a beautiful and colorful display. While everything is new and fresh outdoors, we understandably want a little refresher of our indoor spaces. “Lots of people are feeling stuck right now, but it’s super easy to shift things around,” says Laura Donnes, owner of LaLaDon Studio in Roswell. “I’m a big fan of lighting updates — from changing out existing ceiling mounts all the way down to adding new interesting lamps with colorful shades.” As parents, most of our finances go toward raising our family and there is often little room in the budget for a transformation. However, you can give your space an updated look without breaking into the college fund. “There are so many fun budget options to consider,” says Donnes. “And one update can make a big difference.”
12 Atlanta Parent
April 2024
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Bring the Outdoors In: One of the biggest trends
for this year is nature and sustainability. This year’s paint colors reflect Mother Nature’s palette, with more emphasis on greens, browns and neutrals. Add live plants and vertical gardens to sunny spaces. Decorate with natural pieces like dried flowers and use materials made from bamboo or hemp. Shop thrift stores and garage sales for unique items that can be refurbished to save them from landfills.
First Impressions: Your front door is the first thing
your visitors see. Try painting it a bold color — if you hate it, it’s easy to fix. For the foyer, Donnes loves hunting for lamps and unique shades at consignment and antique stores. “Estate sale season is approaching, the absolute best for finding fantastic unique items,” she says. Freshening up your front porch with new house numbers and a doormat are simple and inexpensive changes. Add a seasonal wreath and flowerpots of different heights to give dimension. If you have space for a chair or bench, add some colorful outdoor pillows.
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