Spring Decor Tips From Two Local Design Pros

Spring has sprung, or at least it’s about to. And beyond the usual seasonal deep clean, there’s tons homeowners can do to refresh their living spaces this time of year. To learn even more about how to rejuvenate your home with spring decor elements, we’ve tapped two local designers.

Photo by Lisa V Lupo, Courtesy of Black Awning

Bryan Frost, interior designer, self-proclaimed vintage hoarder and founder of Black Awning is our first professional expert. He specializes in designing and decorating historic homes in and around Omaha and is a graduate of the University of Nebraska at Kearney’s Interior Design Program. To update spaces for spring, Bryan prefers to incorporate floral prints and cottons and rattan, which are natural textures that transition beautifully into the summer months. “Always think about the addition of common interior items to vibe up your exterior spaces. I use layer rugs for added texture, and blankets for more comfort on those chilly evenings”, shared Frost.

The pro wanted to reiterate that rugs aren’t just for the interior, as they help ground a space just like the interior. He counseled, “Consider fun colors in geometric designs to add interest. Laying rugs add a special play in texture and add fun color to your traditional entry look. This entry rug look was purchased from Target for under $35.00 for both rugs!”.

Photo by Lisa V Lupo, Courtesy of Black Awning

Plants can be an excellent natural addition for spring as well. Bryan suggests selecting plants with blooms that complement your porch or home exterior color. The designer shared, “Be thoughtful with your flower selection. Keep in mind what plants do best with low light selections for shaded areas. I love finding plants that bloom all summer for constant color, and add a pot of succulents, a fun mix of texture.” For those not sure where to start, his favorite local sources for plants are Mulhall’s and Benson Plant Rescue.

And to add some flair to your plants, be sure to select fun planters with character. Planters are decor for your spaces and should reflect your personality. Bryan also loves to include a garden stool or small bistro table for afternoon tea or cocktails. He laughed, sharing, “A grapefruit “Quaran-tini” on the porch is what we all need right now!” and will further help embrace the spring season.

Photo by Lisa V Lupo, Courtesy of Black Awning

Beyond plant shops, Target is Bryan’s go-to for affordable and trendy spring vibes. “Their patio collections are always tangible and include vibrant looks. I also love using vintage to create more one of a kind look[s]. Platforms like Facebook Marketplace can help you score interesting pieces. I have found all my beautiful rattan furniture pieces on Facebook or thrifting”, explained Frost.

Photo by Lisa V Lupo, Courtesy of Black Awning

Tara Miller is the owner and principal designer at The Heartland Interior Design. The small firm is based in Omaha but has projects all around the country in both the residential and commercial realms. The Heartland is especially known for sourcing materials from local Nebraska vendors.

Photo Courtesy of The Heartland Interior Design

According to Tara, spring is the time of rebirth and new beginnings. “I like to start fresh with a few simple changes. First I like to change the scent of the home by putting out candles with a more floral scent. Then I like to swap out any wintery décor with spring décor like faux green plants [or] fresh florals arrangements. Then I love to brighten the space up with colorful throw pillows that are composed of light-weight fabrics like cotton or linen”, explained the design pro. She also recommends removing any heavy material items like wool, since those can be saved for fall or winter.

Photo Courtesy of The Heartland Interior Design

For aesthetically pleasing impact without breaking the bank, Tara favors items like the aforementioned candles, pillows, and plants. “For both fresh and faux plants I love going to Of the Earth Florals in Lincoln or Mulhall’s in Omaha,” she shared.

Photo Courtesy of The Heartland Interior Design

According to Tara and the Heartland team, spring is definitely the time for vibrant natural colors. That can be translated to either a colorful or a neutral palette. She expanded, stating, “If you are drawn more towards neutrals, focus on the naturally occurring colors of spring like green moss and rainy blue hues. If you love color I recommend adding in pieces that compliment your existing palette. It’s different for everyone, but start with asking yourself if your home has more of a warm undertone or a cooler color-scheme. Then compliment accordingly. For warm palettes, I love adding in blush, apricot and fuchsia tones. For cooler palettes, I lean more towards turquoise, peridot and cerulean. But you’re wanting some contrast, you can lean into complementary colors. These colors are across from each other on the color wheel. For example, the complementary color of blue is orange. These combinations create the most contrast.”

Photo Courtesy of The Heartland Interior Design

Overall, the designer wants readers to know to have fun, and don’t overcomplicate a spring decor refresh. She expanded, adding, “Stay inspired by nature and create something that fits your lifestyle and the interior style of your home.”

Related Links:
Black Awning
The Heartland Interior Design
Fall Decor Tips From Two Omaha Design Pros