There’s a lovely aphorism that Spring is the season of new beginnings. If you’re anything like me, this time of year brings a surge of energy and creativity, making it the perfect time to embark on that big home project, especially one you’ve been putting off. Whether you’re just tackling a traditional deep cleaning or actually considering a full-on renovation or custom build, this is the time of year to get it done — or at least start exploring all the options.
I, for one, dream of a kitchen makeover and the planning always kicks into high gear in the Spring. There’s nothing like preparing a counter full of fresh greens and produce to prompt research into the best sink styles and counter materials for a functional and stylish kitchen. And then there’s my recent obsession with creative storage spaces — a number of the homes I’ve visited lately boast hidden pantry and appliance closets behind integrated cabinetry, and I can’t wait to share these rooms with you in a future issue.
Maybe you have a home that needs more extensive work. How does one evaluate and prioritize those sizable projects? Should you renovate or start over from scratch? This is a big decision that requires much planning and consideration — and there is no one-size fits all solution.
According to interior design consultant Lisa Dunsmuir of Step One Design, the key to finding the answer is by weighing out the factors of time versus money versus environmental responsibility. “My feeling is that you always have to be diligent about all of these things,” she says. “Especially the latter. There can be a culture of disposability with building. If you live in a home that’s been lovingly maintained, there is no need to tear it down. You can take your vision and use what you already have to create something that works wonderfully for you. The big thing is to be open to all of the possibilities. Trust in the experts you hire, the people who do this for a living.”
I hope you find the spring articles filled with inspiration for your own homes.
— Athena, Editor of Spruce magazine
