Light-hearted and ethereal are the buzz words that best describe the 2012 Spring Decorating Trends. The focus is on a neutral background of cream, white or beige with pops of color and style inspiration found in the accessories, fabrics and furniture arrangements. There is also a trend toward money-saving updates that make a big impact on a budget.

In the Spring Decorating Trends for furniture, one sees the return of light or mid-tone natural wood finishes signaling that dark woods are on the way out. White or black lacquered surfaces are popular and reflect the light, a very desired element this Spring. Specific design styles are optional and should be chosen with one’s own personality in mind, as modern, traditional, country or mixed styles will all suit the season, perfectly. There is a trend toward small conversational groupings instead of large bulky arrangements. So, think about how rooms can be rearranged to create cozy and well-defined seating areas that are more intimate than the wide open spaces of past years.

Popular fabrics this season include woven materials or simple tweeds in neutral colors with hints of metallic threads, here and there, to visually lighten up the heavy fabrics. Faux fur and textured knobby fabrics are making a come back. Alternately, plaid, stripes, hounds tooth patterns or modern florals, especially white prints on bold colored backgrounds make an impact that is spot-on this year.

Use of color this spring mirrors the general trend of neutral backgrounds with bright pops of jewel tones such as emerald green, ruby red, golden yellow and sapphire blue. Gold, silver and other metallic elements are back this season, big-time. As are mirrored or lucite furniture or accessories that lend a magical effect to any room. All of these accents add interest or bling to the mostly neutral walls and draperies.

Cost-cutting style trends are a must this Spring. The top choice to purchase is refurbished second-hand furniture found at thrift-stores, antique shops or estate sales. Using such pieces can really stretch a budget, which is so important during the economically challenging times many are facing, these days. The good news is these pieces add charm and personality to a room’s decor and with a lacquered finish applied they meet the style requirements of the season, perfectly.

Another money-saving trend to consider is a Spring lighting update. Replace functional lighting as well as mood or accent lighting to create a new look without having to remodel an entire room. Vintage lighting fixtures should be considered as an alternative to newer expensive ones. Think more chic than shabby when buying used fixtures. The goal is polish and shine. Colored lighting reflected off of white or cream walls can create a lush lighting effect that is so right for this season’s focus on ethereal qualities.

Try to create rooms that reflect your own sense of style but have a somewhat dreamy atmosphere. Fill them with light and dark contrasts, bright, iridescent and shiny accessories and you will be right in sync for the 2012 Spring Decorating Trends.

Source by Ella D’Zur