PREPPING AND PLANNING

Before getting to work on a new or updated look, step back and consider your long-term goals –specifically, changes to the home you’d like to see by summertime. Many local contractors are booking further out than ever before, and while supply chain delays are on the mend, the past few years have proven that disruptions are unpredictable at best. Even in the best circumstances, talented craftspersons who are in demand oftentimes have multiple customers in the queue.

Althea Tower, owner of Riveted Woodworking & Design in Bristol, says timelines for projects depend on many variables, including the scope of the project, the process of finalizing a design, and accommodating any changes that might unfold along the way, but a ballpark lead time is typically about 12 to 16 weeks.

“There are a lot of fluid things in there because my process is so customized, down to a quarter inch,” she explains. From new mudrooms, home offices, and Architectural Digest -worthy wet bars, to smaller projects like built-ins, closets, accent walls, shelving, sliding barn doors, exposed beams and Pinterest-perfect pantries, a realistic timeline is critical, and can heavily influence your “real time” seasonal design scheme. “Now is the time of year when a deep cleaning paired with purging of items that have served their time typically inspire change and a lot of people seeking better organization,” says Tower.

Identify areas where accessories can be easily swapped out and natural elements can elevate the existing space. Here, Althea Tower from Riveted Woodworking & Design added a pair of wood shelves to the dining room of local interior designer Karey Majka of Rustic Rabbit Interiors, based in Coventry. The shelves allow Majka to showcase organic elements including plants or flowers alongside art, antiques, and treasures. Tower also added a wood beam for a custom touch that not only adds a natural element but also adds warmth and texture.

Before making any big changes, think small, and see how you can rework what you already have. Martel worked with the homeowner of this Portsmouth kitchen to transfer the entire space without breaking down walls or breaking the bank. “We painted the cabinets Rosemary by Sherwin-Williams and changed the countertop, light fixture, cabinet hardware, sink, faucet, and added a backsplash. You can definitely transform a space dramatically without a full gut!” she says.

“Bring back those lighter linens!” says Martel. “As the weather gets warmer, we don’t need the heavy blankets laying around anymore.” Simplicity also goes a long way. Fresh flowers in a hand-me-down vase, a beloved book, and fresh new pillow cases are just some examples of easy DIY decor that can make a space spring forward.