GAZELLE MAGAZINE September 2018 | Page 51

HEARTH & HOME the displays when the weather starts to turn. This is a great way to experiment with all those fun trinkets you’ve been picking up from home stores throughout the year. Or maybe you have a few things you love, but can’t make a decision: Do you like a big mirror leaning against the brick, but you also adore your family photos that were blown up on canvas? Alternate! Use the canvas when the season matches the photo, and try a mirror in the winter when the rest of the décor can be really rich and heavy. The mirrored reflection plays nicely against glittery candle holders or metallic statues. Change it up in warmer months with light burlap banners and brightly hued vases. Bring the outdoors in No room is complete without a touch of greenery, so keep it fresh and seasonal by using what is currently growing. Spring is the perfect time to decorate with tulips, while light, fluttery peonies are the highlight of early summer. Deep jewel-toned mums will bring richness to your home in the fall, and a crisp evergreen garland in the winter will lend color and an earthy scent to make every guest feel welcome. Switch out your pillows - and curtains I know - everyone knows to switch out pillows, but curtains? Yes! Heavy brocade drapes are too dark and dreary for summer and may not let in the best light, while airy, white lace will have you freezing in the winter. Bright, lightweight fabrics will reflect the sunlight better, while dark colors will hold heat, so deeply saturated and dense window treatments are perfect for blocking drafts during those long Missouri winters. Pillows are where I really like to have fun, because there are just so many options! Once the temperature drops, I like pillows with lots of texture - anything from velvet, to sequins, to heavily beaded satin. The more ornate, the better! Spring is all about florals, especially those dreamy watercolor designs. For fun and quirky summer style, try accent pillows embroidered with your favorite sayings, or go for a nautical theme if the ocean calls your name. Making small changes to your living space when the weather changes will help ease you into that seasonal transition quickly and stylishly. Bodnar is a real estate investor and home renovator, and the owner of RAD Real Estate in St. Louis. Connect with her on Facebook, Instagram, or via email at [email protected]. SAVVY I SOPHISTICATED I SASSY 49