4 Ways to Spring Forward Now!

Winter’s here and brrrr…it’s cold as ice.  Even Harry, my sturdy little corgi, is dutifully suiting up in his tartan plaid coat before venturing out into the yard.  But, indoors I’ve found a way to beat winter at its game by infusing my home with touches of nature that are warm, colorful and inspiring.

The Brits have been doing this for centuries.  Homes with beautiful conservatories (like this one that I photographed when in London recently) and garden rooms date back to the 16th century but blossomed during the reign of Queen Victoria. Designed to liven up interiors during bleak winter months, these spaces are typically filled with dramatic examples of nature ranging from soaring trees and heady scented plantings to chirping birds and even the occasional butterfly or two.

Alas, my grand English home with conservatory must wait until the arrival of my prince with trusty trust fund (where is he???).  So in the meantime, am I doomed to a home of wintery blandness?  No way! We fashionistas never turn down a challenge (or reason to shop) so shop I did. In a nano-second, I zeroed in four fab furnishings that’ll add a little Spring to your step…and your home right now.

Mother Nature would feel right at-home dining at this table filled with award-winning artist Susan Winget’s Somerset Song dinnerware (exclusive to CH). The Homespun bell jar with stand mimics a classic garden cloche in this gorgeous centerpiece of moss, bird nests and eggs.

This Floor Standing bird cage takes its cue from English Victorian homes that used these structures as architectural elements and filled them with all sort of things (sometimes even birds!)

Our Field of Flowers wall art adds a modernist touch with its square, unframed canvas.

One of the easiest (and most affordable) ways to create atmosphere is via scent.  Light Heather’s Garden soy candle to fill the room with the fragrance of a lovely bouquet of flowers.