June is Busting Out All Over

I hope that reminds you of a classic Rogers and Hammerstein show tune from Carousel and not your home or garage. Now that the weather has finally turned “spring like”, and summer isn’t far behind, it’s surely not the time to begin putting away the snow shovels to get out the volleyball net. If you’re already prepared for a summer “staycation”, congrats! If not, plan on using your next rainy day wisely so that you can enjoy summer fun and entertaining without the stress.

The key is to pare down, lighten up and free your space and yourself of what seems to have needlessly filled both over the winter (and perhaps before). If you are so used to your clutter that you don’t even see it anymore, try this trick. Step outside your front or garage door and imagine you are entering your neighbor’s home (maybe the one you’re not too fond of).

Walk, climb or pole vault through, if necessary, and see how it feels. Navigating someone else’s mess, when you don’t have to take ownership of it is a lot easier than facing you own.

Now that reality has set in, make a plan of what goes to the curb and what can be organized. If you have limited space in a clothing closet, you probably store clothing seasonally. If you haven’t done so – try it. If the same is true of your garage, group winter usage and summer sports so they can be shifted front and center when needed. In both cases, you’ll find “stuff” you never knew you
had, or even wanted, that’s just taking up space. Now – kiss it good-bye.

Using space wisely is what designing is all about. Lighten your “in house” space – by removing some draperies, throws, pillows and rugs for the summer season and bring in some greenery, florals and if there is time, paint a few brighter, lighter walls. Then take your “inside” – “out” – onto your patio, porch, or backyard. Spruce these areas up with great indoor – outdoor rugs, seating, lighting, dinnerware (decomposable, of course) and more. Add your al fresco summer menu, a few outdoor games and a karaoke machine. Now your neat and organized interior will stay that way. Your powder room, can easily get a summer face-lift, as well, with new towels (you guessed it – paper, of course, that speaks “summer”), a new area rug and seasonal accessories.

We all need time to relax and recharge and doing your due diligence, first, will make your summer so much more enjoyable and stress free. So – happy summer – everyone!

Special Note:
Now Enrolling: Summer Master Classes for Students & Homeowners!
Learn, have fun, and meet others who LOVE decorating.
Fee: $495 per attendee (10 sessions)
Location: Natalie’s Design Studio in St. James + field trips
Time: Wednesdays, 10 AM – 12 PM, starting this summer
Contact: Natalie Weinstein Design Associates
631-862-6198 (office) | 516-242-9242 (cell)
info@natalieweinstein.com