Spring Cleaning Inspiration

It’s that time of year again – It’s time for Spring Cleaning!

I love this time of year – everything feels fresh and vibrant. There’s something about cleaning and decluttering that helps you feel mentally lighter and your home more refreshed.

True to form, the additional fresh lighting has inspired yet another change to my living room – we disconnected the cable over a year ago, and that was the only aspect that kept the TV on the narrow wall and locked in our configuration.

I’ve shaken things up and removed the ladder shelves we DIY’d over two years ago (you can check out the blog post here) in favor of a blank canvas for adding inspiring artwork and family photos. The resulting lighting has me enamored with what I always felt was the world’s smallest living room.

I’m still daydreaming ideas, but I’ve got some great plans to DIY fun sculptural elements to bring the room from mediocre to WOW. I can’t wait to share those!

When I began my business way back in 2018, I asked myself what attainable items and sustainable options were. While I remain focused on sustainability, I love incorporating elements that are easy to DIY.

Several months ago, I sold my treasured Bird of Paradise plant because it was outgrowing our space – she’s now enjoying a large studio surrounded by her friends. I plan to incorporate a way to repurpose a large framed art canvas and create a sensational new piece of art! Of course, the updated living room will feature sculptural elements and a nod to nature.

You’re probably wondering what I did with the toy storage – well, I added a tall IVAR shelf from IKEA for storing the kids’ toys within view and easy reach. A funny thing happened, too, as they could reach them easily. They’re now more thoughtful about what they take out, and that means the living room is less of a mess – for now, at least.

Here is a look at WAY before:

I styled the IVAR shelf with a small lamp and a statement sculpture making good use of a typically dark corner. My large Monstera plant has been moved to the bright corner once occupied by my Bird of Paradise and is living her best life – ready for an extension to the moss pole.

Changing up a room has been a “thing” for me for as long as I can remember – I was a young teen when I ripped up the ’70s vibe carpet in my room to reveal these beautiful hardwoods. I painted the walls in dueling Caribbean-inspired colors and loved it! While I’m more refined these days, I have a bold streak still and enjoy letting her out!

During college, I worked three jobs while taking classes full-time, and my favorite of all was working on houses. We would transform older homes in need of some love, and I would spec the colors and take care of the painting. Did I mention they were in the mountains? In there must be where my yearning for a cozy a-frame began. What’s more to love?

For me, cleaning and refreshing is a journey of self-discovery. Snag a few of my favorites to make it easier (and more fun!) below.

What about you? Let me know in the comments – and happy Spring Cleaning!