Changing seasons

The seasons have a way of changing so suddenly, leaving us wondering what happened to the hot and humid days of June and July. As the weather changes outside your home, it's a great idea to make some changes inside your home. Here are some tips for inspired seasonal decorating.

Rearrange your furniture Nothing's cosier than two chairs by a roaring fire in winter, but moving them to a screened window that catches breezes in the summer sure beats sitting around an empty hearth.

Choose adjustable window coverings Strong summer rays need filtering, but scarce winter sun needs welcoming. Fabrics and shades that filter instead of block sunlight offer comfort levels appropriate to the conditions outside. Bamboo blinds, lightweight linen and adjustable wooden shutters, all accompanied by side draperies that shut out more light if necessary, are all easily adapted choices.

Invest in slipcovers Dressing furniture in a seasonable wardrobe has long been a popular way to "summerize" a room. Though slipcovers are expensive, you don't need to cover a whole suite of furniture. Choose a base colour for the sofa and dress the smaller pieces in seasonal colours.

Accessorize Since you need two sets, keep accessories simple. There are plenty of stores that offer moderately priced stylish accessories, and don't forget secondhand shops for one-of-a-kind bargains. Also inexpensive and even cheaper than flowers are bowls of seasonal fruit, such as strawberries in June and pomegranates in December, which instantly set a seasonal mood - and unlike flowers, you can eat them. Invest in a few choice year-round double-duty accessories that serve different functions winter and summer, such as a large good-quality basket for firewood in winter that holds your entire stack of must-read books in the summer.

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