Nine On-trend Ways to Spruce Up Your Decor This Spring

Pantone’s 2016 Colors of the Year are often seen in soft furnishings, but we also like these lighter hues in glass. HomeSense has introduced two spring-fresh items you can incorporate in your space to hit the trends without straying too far into modern territory. The Geo Glass Terrarium (pictured above left, $19.95) is trimmed with brass-toned metal (a trend that has staying power), while the breeze Glass Pendant Light (pictured above right, $79.99) has retro appeal with its kitschy chain.

We’re so over the stump-as-stool, but natural elements—especially those from far-flung locales—add a rustic gravitas to a curated space. These white Nomad mango-wood tables with-print-block detailing (pictured above right, from $525 at The Cross Design & Decor), for instance, have a grounding effect on pink tones and shiny metals, keeping a room from wandering too far into girlie or glamazon territory. Another rustic resurrection? Rattan. Pier 1 Imports has owned this emerging trend with a solid section of indoor furniture that’s more tailored than tiki (pictured above left).

Bid adieu to sloppy slipcovers and usher in an era of top tailoring. Not only does the swivel chair by Roar & Rabbit (pictured above, from $799, West Elm) come in subdued on-trend tones in luxe velvet, it shows off pretty pleating on the back. We also love the unexpected marriage of linen and—yes!—lucite on this dashing ottoman (pictured, right, price on request, Peridot). Tufting keeps it comfy and elegant while the see-through sides offer an airy vibe that’s essential in smaller spaces.

What could be more modern than wide horizontal stripes in black and white? We love this look popped with pink, but if you’re creating a restful retreat, temper this strong style with light lines in traditional tones like gold. (Think LBD with gold jewellery.) The wirework mirror and candleholder from Walmart’s new Chic Retreat collection (available in April) are in keeping with the graphic look and bring functional glamour to a room. So does the bar cart: its reflective mirror top echoes the one on the wall, creating a coordinated look that feels like it’s ripped from fashion runways.

Animal prints and motifs can easily look over-the-top or twee, but not these elegant illustrations of local wildlife. The Birds of Stanley Park throw pillows from the Museum of Vancouver collection showcase illustrations by artist Frank L. Beebe, which were printed on Stanley Park brochures in the 1940s. Our favourite designs include the Kingfisher, Great Blue Heron (pictured below) and Mallard pillows (pictured above, each $49–$79 at Pillow Decor). These comfy conversation pieces add interest to your space without a jolt of colour or kitsch.

Flora and fauna are strong once again, but find understated ways to use these accents to stay on trend (no leopard print, please). We’re in love with the fresh blue treatment of palm fronds and monstera leaves on linens from Walmart’s Tide Pool collection (available in May). Create an oasis of calm in your bedroom by infusing the indoors with tropical touches that read more as graphic neutrals. Fully embrace this trend by incorporating the natural trend (see slide 9) and your sanctuary will be complete.

We love using graphics in a space, but their vibe can be too energetic when you’re trying to chill. Swedish design house Sandberg has your serene space on lockdown with its soothing SKYMNING wallpaper (pictured above, $407/roll at Orling & Wu). The ombre-esque pattern features a gradation of orange to pale pink and the faintest grey. For a different take, turn it on its side and admire the subtle vertical stripes. Too eye-catching? Introduce stripes underfoot instead. Ikea’s new Saltbak wool rug (pictured right, $199) sports wide bands of calming pink, grey and blue hues.

We’ve seen warm metals such as gold, brass, copper and bronze in every room—from sophisticated accessories and chic bathroom faucets to kitchen drawer pulls and pendant lamps. Big names like Knoll are even changing up some classic pieces, trading steel for—what else?—gold. Case in point: the wire base on the iconic 1960s-era Platner table comes in a new 18-karat gold-plated finish ($2,435). It’s a stunner on its own, but even bolder when paired with the lounge chair ($7,282). The gold upgrade marks the Platner Collection's 50th anniversary. Find this investment piece, among others from the collection, at Gabriel Ross.

Dark and moody bijoux bathrooms ooze sex appeal, but this spring consider lightening up. Colour and texture come together in a pretty powder room (pictured above), which marries matte paint on the walls (Sico brand’s Venice Skyline: 6082-31) with high-gloss accents (in Zuni Landscape: 6073-21) on the door, trim and wainscoting. Using contrasting finishes can create interest while achieving harmony at the same time.

With the cloak of winter lifting, it’s time to lighten up your home for spring. On-trend pastel colours such as Pantone’s Serenity and Rose Quartz get glamorous when complemented by warm metals. Floral motifs and rustic textures (think raffia) have returned too. But keep it calm, says Geneviève Paiement, brand manager for Sico paint. “From yellow-tinged whites to pale, floral-like pastels anchored by dark grey and black accents, the season’s paint palette is a reflection of the public’s increasing desire for tranquility and balance.”

Click through for nine ways to embrace top decor trends this spring.