Home interior design will be on everyone’s minds over the next few months. While the snow is falling in Massachusetts, and we spend long hours in our homes, we look forward to spring cleaning and redecorating.

While you are staying warm and cozy indoors, we interior designers are anticipating the trends in the upcoming seasons. We are already seeing the Pantone Color of the Year showing itself in accent furniture, feature walls, appliances and more, and while there are similar trends you can adopt in your own home, we are opting for simple interior design recommendations for the spring.

Spring is all about waking your home up, and bringing life after the cold winter months. Adding personal touches to your home during the spring is a wonderful way to prepare for the summer. As such, we are preparing to liven up our own homes with these interior design spring ideas. Try them for yourself!

1. Home interior design spring accessories

As we said, the Pantone Color of the Year is making its way in accessories like tablecloths and feature rugs. Though you certainly do not need to rely on just one color to make a statement. 

Baby blue, fuchsia and white are also making their way into spring. We see this on the runway, which will quickly establish itself into our homes. If you don’t want to set about painting and wallpapering your house, consider accenting the season with accessories.

2. Pastel colors are a big part of home interior design this spring

Spring screams pastel, and these colors are certainly making it onto the walls of our clients this season. Pastel is derived from chalky tones and elicits a soothing, comforting appeal. Use pastel colors in any room, from the bathroom and living area to kitchens and bedrooms.

In the Spring, we recommend going with muted pastel paint colors. They are easily transferable to the Summer season and make a classic splash versus a loud, bold color.

3. Spring home interior design calls for floral arrangements

Flowers, we missed you! During the winter it can be a dreary house without floral arrangements. Without beautiful tulips, daffodils, peonies and more in season, we opt to a more rustic and natural look in the home.

In the spring, our floral arrangements make an impressive appearance. Eagerly we immediately sign-up for flower delivery services and fill our homes with unique vases. Don’t be afraid to go all-in this spring!

4. Diffusers with fresh scents are everywhere in your home 

Diffusers are used year-round, though they are arguably most popular in the springtime. With the winter season nearly behind us, we are lusting for fresh scents in our home. One of the ways we can do this is through a natural diffuser. There are many retailers who offer natural diffuser options and unique oil blends.

When it comes to diffusers and interior design, I recommend finding a product that can blend into your home. This AromaGem from Saje is an example of a small beautiful product that can diffuse up to 450 square feet. It is an excellent addition to your living area, bedroom, or bathroom.

5. Add new photos to your home interior design

While you’re painting your walls a new shade of pastel, why not add new photo frames (and photos) too! Changing photos seasonally is a great way to keep your wall decor looking fresh and exciting. Use the photographs that you took last springtime for the upcoming spring months. Then do the same for summer, fall and winter every year. Not only can you capture the essence of the season but you can also finally use all those photos you have stored in your smartphone. Select your favorite moments captured with your phone and have them printed at your local photo store.

Livening up your home with new feature rugs, updating your wall colors, adding beautiful scents to your rooms and creating memories is a great way to prepare for the season that lies ahead. These are only a few of our interior design trends for the Spring, and we can’t wait to share more with you. Contact Melanie Kokoros at MDK Design Associates for more interior design ideas and plans.

With the New Year comes anticipation and thoughts about how to update your home during winter. As we spend a lot of time indoors, we think about both our personal passions and ways to update our home decor. There is anticipation around resolutions set for ourselves, the wonder of what lies ahead in the calendar year and a sense of new visions for our home. As I was watching ‘Tidying Up with Marie Kondo’ on Netflix just the other day, I was thinking about these visions myself; creative ideas and home decor trends for 2019 that can be brought into client homes without buying new stuff. Simple additions can make a big difference.

Here’s how to update your home for 2019 – no renovations needed

You might not have the passion for a full renovation in the middle of winter. Less than sixty days to spring but who’s counting? Warmer spring and summer months offer greater possibilities for full-scale renovations. There are a few things you can do indoors that can make an impact while we are waiting for another New England winter to pass by.

So, I’ve included my tips on how to update your home this year without renovations. New year, new home as I like to call it.

1. Update your fireplace with new tile

Beautiful, clean tile is continuing to be a trend in 2019. Stone and marble, are popular additions for a fireplace design. We have seen the advent of white backsplash and expect the trend to continue this year. There are plenty of options for such tile. From ceramic mosaic tiles to porcelain alternatives, the opportunity is nearly limitless. Updating your fireplace with new tile is simple but an impactful way to update your home.

Related: Interior Design Color Trends for 2019

2. Paint your ceiling!

All you need is paint! Make a splash in the living room with a new color paint or accent wall. Consider a feature room that could use a bit of a lift. Paint can work wonders in most any room.

2019 is all about taking risks, especially in your home. Breaking out of your comfort zone with interior design is something that I am encouraging all of my clients to do this year. If you’re a DIY sort of individual, consider reading this reference guide on how to paint a ceiling. If you would prefer to hire a great painter, contact me for referrals.

I love the ability to work with neutral tones on ceilings so if your living room is in need of a facelift, consider a deep grey or perhaps a midnight blue for an added touch of simple sophistication.

3. A touch of class comes with beautiful molding

Molding and millwork come in a plethora of options. It can be overwhelming to decide what is best for your home. One of the more popular molding types is Crown. Crown molding gives a finished look to any room. It is placed where the walls and ceiling meet.

Crown molding is easily accessible, and can also be installed DIY. Be aware when
installing crown molding and don’t forget – measure twice, cut once!

4. Knobs, anyone?

Door knobs are an excellent way to add some quick and easy updates to any room. Door knobs are easy to find in most home stores and online. I love perusing Etsy to see what sort of great handmade options are on the market, like these copper hexagon knobs.

Don’t forget – unique knobs can be placed on cabinets too! If your kitchen is in need of a lift, for example, give it life with a statement color or material.

5. Consider a minimalist approach

Spring is right around the corner even though it doesn’t feel like it. It might be a good idea to get ahead of your spring cleaning now. There’s no better time like the present, right?

Watching ‘Tidying Up with Marie Kondo’ on Netflix, I was inspired to do my own tidying of sorts. The beauty of cleaning out your home is that you may discover uncovered items you forgot about. Sometimes something old can feel like a new treasure.

Create a sense of calm and simplicity within each and every room. Consider a minimalist approach as a home update for 2019 – it won’t cost anything at all!

I am excited about the year that lies ahead, both for my clients and within my own home, too. For more ideas on how to update your home – no renovations needed please contact me here.

Interior design color trends have a significant impact all around us. Designers from different industries keep a close watch on color trends. Home decor, graphic design, and fashion are all affected by colors. 

Nearly twenty years ago, in 2000, the Pantone Color Institute declared a specific ‘Color of the Year’. This specific color declaration provides a focal point for fashion designers, florists, interior designers, and more, with a palette to guide designs in the upcoming year. While the world of designers wait with bated breath, a secret meeting of representatives get together to decide on the Pantone ‘Color of the Year. Thoughtful consideration and trend analysis goes into process of selecting the best color for the year.

We are excited to announce the new Pantone ‘Color of the Year’ into home designs in 2019. It’s a beauty!

The Pantone Color of 2019 is…

Living Coral has been selected as the Pantone color of 2019. Living Coral is considered a life-affirming shade, as it is an explosive color that pops. Use this color as a staple in your wardrobe and within your home this coming year. 

Selecting a Pantone color is no easy feat; It comes with societal consideration and current trends. In a statement from the Pantone Color Institute, Living Coral is a “reaction to the onslaught of digital technology and social media increasingly embedding into daily life”. It has a “humanizing and heartening” connection.

How will Living Coral be used in home design and decor?

The beauty of interior design color trends is that you won’t see it splashed anywhere any everywhere. Your neutrals can still be used with a splash of Living Coral. Your home does not have to be overwhelmed with this singular color. You can use it to enhance beauty and create style in your own way. When it comes to the Pantone ‘Color of the Year’, it is all about minimalism. Here are some ways we will be using Living Coral in 2019.

1. Interior Design Color Trends Impacting Throw Pillows and Blankets

When Spring turns to Summer, we will surely be playing with Living Coral in the form of throw pillows and blankets. Envision outdoor cushions on the back patio and bright blankets draped across your bed or living room sofa.

2. Table Plates and Dinnerware Featuring the Interior Design Color Trends

Gone are the days of requiring perfect, white plating at every meal. Kick your creativity up a notch with items like this Coral dinnerware on Etsy. Many homes have their dinnerware sets on display as a design feature. Alternatively, consider using the vibrant Living Corel color on place settings, table clothes, runners or centerpieces. 

3. Kitchen Accessories

Be prepared for an influx of Living Coral accessories for your home. Kitchen color accents will range from dishwashers to KitchenAid stand mixers, like this option from last year’s Ultra Violet Pantone selection. The Pantone selections over the last few years have been bright which has given us the flexibility to integrate playful colors into the home. Kitchen accessories are an excellent way to integrate popular colors into your living areas.

4. Interior Design Color Trends That Play with That Feature Wall

At MDK Designs, we are big fans of feature walls. Especially, accent walls  that can be updated every year. Consider using the Living Coral feature wall in an office or spare bedroom accompanied with the perfect accessories.

5. Go All-In on Color Trending Accent Chairs

Accent chairs are an easy way to integrate pops of color into your home. You can find plenty immediately after the Pantone ‘Color of the Year’ is announced. This Velvet Elowen chair on Anthropologie is a lovely option in Living Coral.

We always look forward to using the Pantone ‘Color of the Year’. We are already working Living Coral into our designs for some trendsetting and fashion forward clients. Contact Melanie Kokoros, Interior Designer at MDK Design Associates with questions on how you can use Living Coral in your home.

Looking for new and exciting holiday gift ideas now that Thanksgiving is behind us? The season is ablaze with Holiday gift buying and planning seasonal festivities. For those who celebrate Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa or others, this is the time of the year when gift giving is abundant and Holiday decor is all around us. Celebratory dinners, lavish brunches and time spent with family and friends is truly what matters at this time of the year, with all of us carrying gifts in tow as we move from event to event.

That’s precisely why we created this MDK holiday gift ideas guide for 2018, your bookmark-worthy resource for the design aficionados in your life. Gift giving for those family and friends who have the perfect home can be challenging; after all, they have the perfect vision for their homes, it can be a daunting thought to contribute in a meaningful way.

This MDK guide to holiday gift ideas has you covered. As you’re shopping for the homeowner or designer in your life, consider these options.

1. Custom Sketchbook for Your Artist

At MDK Designs, we rely on our sketchbooks – after all, you never know when a wonderful idea could come to us. From the home to the grocery store, the office to the job site, visions arise everywhere. For the hobby designer, a sketchbook is a great gift idea to accompany him or her along on their home journey. There are beautiful options online, like this Moleskine Custome Edition.

2. A Personalized Journal is the Perfect Place to Write Down Holiday Gift Ideas!

A personalized journal is a perfect gift for the traveler, songwriter, screenwriter, or anyone who enjoys recording their daily experiences, adventures, thoughts, and reflections. You can customize a journal with a monogram, engraving, logos, photos, and designs. For a personal touch, consider using the name of the gift recipient and a meaningful quote or 3 inspiring words. You will find many creative ideas on https://www.jbcustomjournals.com.

3. You Can’t Go Wrong with Cocktail Mugs or Glasses

Hostesses and hosts always need new dishware – and it certainly doesn’t need to match! Options such as Moscow Mule Mugs are excellent, as they are unique for the tender behind the bar, yet can also double as a DIY decor piece on a table or two with small florals inside. You may also want to go that step further by personalizing the barware with a nickname or limerick. 

4. Shop Your Local Boston Retailers for Custom Vases Collections

We love local businesses, and we love custom home decor. Plus, who doesn’t need another vase in their collection? This vase from Jill Rosenwald is a favorite of mine, handmade to order in Boston. Couple a beautiful handmade vase with seasonal flowers and a festive ribbon add a design flourish of your own. When you start thinking of holiday gift ideas, consider local businesses. Shopping local adds a unique and special element to the present that nationwide retailers don’t have, especially if you are gifting it to an out of towner. 

5. Holiday Gift Ideas Found in DIY Wreath Building Activities

When you have family at your home, consider holding a DIY Wreath Night! Gather your necessities – like wires to create the frame, greenery (your choice), embellishments such as holly, bells, pinecones, and any other additions you would like to add. Set out to create a number of wreaths during your DIY night, and gift them over the holidays — a personal, thoughtful gift for your loved ones.

6. Unique and Custom Serving Boards

When attending a Holiday party or dinner, you will likely arrive with an appetizer. Why not get creative with what you bring, and have a leave-behind as an accompaniment? We love the idea of a large cheese, and cold meats board, especially ones found at Brooklyn Slate Co. Arriving with cheese and charcuterie is always sure to impress, and a unique slate is just as excellent for the host.

7. Holiday Gift Ideas Include Impressive Table Reads

Every designer, or designer at heart, loves table books. Whether you read them from back to front, or perhaps they sit on your side table for guests to peruse through, it’s always helpful to have impressive table reads at your side. One of my favorite options this Holiday Season is the new, beautiful book, ‘Dior and His Decorators: Victor Grandpierre, Georges Geffroy, and the New Look.’ It is a fantastic read with remarkable photos that are sure to start a conversation. You can go one step further by creating a personal lay flat coffee table book using photos.

8. A Warm, Neutral Throw

We’re big believers that you can never have too many throws in your home. From curling up on your sofa in the evening with a movie on the television to changing your throws throughout the year as you freshen up your home decor for the seasons. One of the more safe and sensible Holiday gift ideas is a warm and neutral throw. Consider tying yours up with holiday-themed ribbon and a note of ‘festive good wishes’ for your family members and friends.

We are excited for the Holiday season ahead, and can’t wait for gift exchanges with our family and friends. As you are preparing for your Holiday with the designer in your life, consider the 8 MDK holiday gift ideas. Contact MDK Design Associates for help on your interor design projects. 

The most popular renovation projects in the home are often bathroom design and kitchen updates. Kitchens and bathrooms are the two most used rooms of the home. The phrase ‘the kitchen is the heart of the home’ is well known, not only because its where meal preparation takes place but because its where the family tends to gather. When the kitchen and bathroom are outdated, it can change the overall ambiance of the home. Is it any wonder that kitchens and bathroom renovations are the most popular home improvement projects?

Statistically speaking, renovations in these areas of your home can deliver an additional home value of between $10,000 to over $49,000. Dependent on the intricacy of the remodel, you can freshen up your bathroom design and kitchen appearance or completely renovate these rooms to achieve your dream space. As we move into the final half of 2018 and the new year, you might be considering a minor to significant renovation in your home. Why not start in the kitchen and bathroom?

Within these areas of your home are trends that you certainly should be aware of – and trends that we are excited to share. After completing so many impressive renovations in these areas of the home, we have compiled the best 6 trends for kitchen and bathroom design that you can try now.

1. Revitalize Your Kitchen and Bathroom Design with Tiles

There is almost nothing better in the kitchen and bathroom than brand new tiles. As we move into 2019, subway tiles are trending. Subway tiles are chic, simple, and a classic. With subway tile, you can select simple color options like black, white and grey to make a dramatic design statement. There are many different materials to choose from such as ceramic, natural stone, marble or glass. Due to the nature of kitchens and bathrooms, the likelihood of spills, splashes, and sprays is rather high. Tiles are the perfect way to protect your floors and walls from water damage. There are many ways you can utilize tile in these rooms.

2. Appliances are Bold

In 2018 we saw the advent of bright appliances – blues, yellows, even reds. Stainless steel was the color choice of designers in the past. Now bright appliances have a place in the home. These appliances are typically in the form of stoves and microwaves. On a smaller scale, you can add a splash of bright color with toasters, kettles and even brightly colored utensils.

3. Colors are Bright and Revitalized

Color sets the tone for the design and atmosphere of any home. Even the simplest pop of color makes a significant impact in a room. The kitchen and bathroom are especially notable, and we are excited about the palette that is coming for 2019. This coming year, the favorite color choices will be broad and have a revitalized range from neutral naturals to charcoal to orange domination. Consider vibrant and bold yellows as well as blues. We’ll also see more deep, dark and intense shades.

4. Kitchen Countertops are Natural

We’ve gone through granites, engineered stone, and others. This upcoming trend is all about natural, real stones and countertops. An advantage of natural materials is, of course, the beauty and uniqueness it provides. The uniqueness is simply unparalleled by any form of man-made stone, as every single piece is different. Natural stone is a fantastic investment in your home.

5. Do Waterfall Edges Work in Your Kitchen?

Waterfall countertop edges, which is also referred to as a riser or infinity edge, offers clean lines that are not seen in traditional horizontal countertops and cabinetry. Waterfall countertops provide a smooth and flowing appearance. They are particularly impressive if they are made from granite, quartz or other stone. Waterfall edges are certainly not for everyone. It truly depends on the room in question. More traditional kitchens can benefit from a paneled countertop, while modern kitchens can consider the waterfall option.

6. You Might Consider Prep Sinks in Your Kitchen

Kitchens are becoming an entertainment focus in the home, with prep sinks emerging as one of the latest and most significant trends. Prep sinks and bar sinks were, of course, always present – however, they are finding a new need and purpose as we move into 2019. Prep sinks provide an additional area to utilize if you are entertaining or have an important meal to create. We predict they will continue to be a focal point in the kitchen through the upcoming year.

Updating your kitchen and bathroom design is a worthwhile and exciting way to bring new life into your home. Investing in a remodel or renovation in these areas often bring great opportunity for both home value and resale value. You will also enjoy cooking and entertaining in the kitchen and using your bathroom space more every day. To learn more about how you can renovate your kitchen or bathroom, contact MDK Design Associates here.

Fall interior design ideas are on the forethought of design enthusiasts this season. It’s time to start thinking about fall home decor. Start gathering interior decor ideas while the weather is still warm. Fall is the season where interior designers are aligned in their excitement and design vision. It’s time to transition our homes from summer to fall. Prepare for colder weather with warm, cozy interiors to enjoy after a long day at work. 

Transitioning your home from summer to fall might sound like an enormous task – two remarkably different seasons! Melanie Kokoros, MDK Design Associates Owner, has provided 6 fall interior design ideas she applies in her own home.

1. Embrace the throw pillows

Throw pillows in the summer likely reflect the brightness of the season – blues, greens, yellows, and pops of other colors. In the fall, it’s essential to bring the outdoors, inside. Consider warm hues of red, brown and orange to reflect the fallen leaves. Coordinate warm tones with beautiful intricate designs and patterns to brighten your living area with autumnal touches.

2. Change your rug for something warmer

During summer, rugs are typically light and less plush for the warmer months. Maybe you don’t have a rug in your living area at all during the summer! To freshen up your room in the living area, bedroom, guest room or otherwise, change your rug for something more luxurious. A warm and comfortable shag rug brings coziness to any space, where a darker hue with fall tones will also do the trick.

3. Fall interior design ideas to update your bedding

You wouldn’t have a heavy duvet on your bed during the heat of summertime. During the fall there is nothing better than snuggling down during cool, crisp nights with a warm duvet. It’s time to bring back your duvet, along with your fall bedding. Deep grey, blue and browns will compliment the outdoor weather beautifully.

4. Bring fall to your dining table

Change your dinner wear to something that better reflects the season. It’s an easy way to update your dining table and dining area. Add deep yellow and green dinner plates, bowls and cups for an inexpensive way to decorate your table. Update your table runner, placemats and dinner napkins to tie the room together. Retailers such as Wayfair offer a great selection of fall items and often have a Labor Day sale so you can save.

5. Add hints of the outdoors

Fall is a favorite for many of us, particularly because of the beautiful, crisp air that encompasses Boston. It’s a great time to head outdoors and take advantage of fall activities before the snow hits. Embracing the colors and smells of the fall atmosphere is a great way to bring the outdoors, inside. Add nature-themed colors to your home, such as pine cones on your side table, a dimly lit candle, or a rustic wood bowl on the kitchen counter. Squash, gourds, and smaller pumpkins can be added in a decorative bowl instead of displaying your favorite summer fruit. Fresh apples and a cinnamon stick displayed on the dining room table, will be visually rich with color and smell delightful. There are so many ways to update your home for fall. 

6. Fall interior design ideas include textures and layers throughout your home

Layering cozy textures in the colder months, such as sheepskins on your side chair, flowers in metallic vases or a cream throw on your leather sofa, is a great way to create an inviting ambiance in the home. Don’t be afraid to play with textures in various rooms of your home, like your living area or home office.

These fall interior design ideas will help you transition your home from summer to fall with ease. As we head into the upcoming season, envision your living area and all of the possibilities that it holds, for you and your family. As the season changes and the temperature drops, with all the holidays that this season brings, your family and friends will start to gather in your home. From new throws to duvets, hints of the outdoors to added textures and layers, enjoy the season ahead!

For more inspiration have a look at the MDK Design Associates portfolio page or email Melanie Kokoros for information about your next home decorating or renovation project.

MDK Design Associates shares 8 decorating tips for the July 4th holiday to help get your homes ready for a week filled with celebration, decoration and outdoor activities. The 4th of July – Independence Day – commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. This is the day that the thirteen American colonies formed as a new nation, which became the United States of America, no longer part of the British Empire. In our present day, the 4th of July is a significant holiday celebration, with 219 million Americans expected to celebrate, spending a whopping $7.1 billion on barbeque goods, decor and more. Wow!

If you are one of the 219 million Americans who are taking part in 4th of July celebrations, we have the decorating resources you need to ensure your Holiday decor is the talk of the block.

8 Decorating Tips for the July 4th Holiday

1. Brighten up your beverages

We love everything about swizzle sticks, which are stir sticks with a twist. These glittering star-topped sticks from Crate & Barrel are especially great – or you can make your own. Simply grab small wooden sticks from your local craft store and glue on a cute top, like these gold and silver stars, or little US flags. Place them on your dinner tables or bar tops to let your guests add a little decor to their beverages.

2. Florals, everywhere!

You can’t skip out on 4th of July florals, right? A patriotic bundle of flowers as your guests enter your home can set the stage for what is to come. Find florals like anemones, alliums (deep blue, of course) and phlox. They’re great in the heat and they are simply beautiful.

3. Fence flags for outdoor barbeques

So simple, so affordable – and available on Amazon!

We found this flag banner string than can be added to your outdoor fence in a flash, and it’s under $15.00.  This is so cute and so easy that can be placed everywhere, from the aforementioned fence to the dinner table.

4. Get the crafts ready for the kids

If you have kids joining you for your outdoor barbeque or indoor dinner, it’s important to get crafts ready for the little ones. One of our favorite crafts for the kids is to make place cards for dinner time. Grab some red, white and blue stationary from the craft store, some themed stickers and washable felts. Assign your kids with the task of finding a spot at the dinner table for each and every guest, and thoughtfully write out their name for each place card. It’s a great way to get the little ones engaged during dinner time.

5. Bring out the table runner.

Patriotic table runners don’t have to come in the form of red, white and blue; instead, we love a table runner like this that can act as a foundation to build your table. Build from this to include red dinner napkins, the glittering star-topped sticks (see tip #1), silver cutlery, and complete with some red, white and blue sparkle to place across the table runner.

6. DIY flower pots

We love this stars and stripes patriotic flower pot from Lolly Jane.  All you need to do is grab a 10” flower pot, foam brushes, red, white and blue outdoor paint, and (optional) vinyl lettering stars. Paint the entire flower pot white, let dry, then add two red stripes. On the top of the pod, paint this blue and add your stars. So easy!

7. Lantern jars for the evening time

If you’re having an outdoor barbeque, lantern jars are sure to make your outdoor space feel cozy. Grab the most simple, clear lantern jars you can find (they can even be mismatched!) and fill the bottom with sand. Place a faux candle inside and you’re ready for the night to begin.

8. Head home with a patriotic goodie bag.

Your guests will love to head home with a patriotic goodie bag, one that they can enjoy well into the week. From sugar cookies tied with blue and red ribbon, to red and blue lollipops, or even a personal note from you, the host.

With the holiday right around the corner, these 8 decorating tips for the July 4th holiday are sure to help create the party of the Summer in your very own backyard. Need more than 8 decorating tips for the July 4th holiday? Contact MDK Design Associates for more decorating ideas. From MDK Designs to you and yours, Happy 4th of July!

2018 Spring outdoor design ideas can elevate your mood and outdoor space this season. It might not feel like Summer (yet) though the warm weather is quickly approaching, and we couldn’t be more excited to spend Summer evenings on the patio with a glass of our favorite beverage, sitting beside the fire and enjoying memorable moments with friends. The Summer months also bring plenty of outdoor design opportunities through decorative additions that can make a big difference as the seasons change. It’s one of our most favorite times of the year! 

Five 2018 Spring outdoor design ideas that can help you spring into Summer

1. It’s all about the outdoor spaces

Winter in Boston can be brutal for the outdoors. Snow, sleet and freezing temperatures can do a number on our outdoor patios and gardens. We’ve grown accustomed to the Spring and Summer clean-up, though the Summer months are truly all about the outdoor spaces.

First things first, spend time in the next couple of weeks focusing on such spaces. Prepare the foundation for what is to come. Whether it’s pressure washing your deck, removing less-than-impressive plants in the gardens or clearing out older patio furniture, outdoor spaces will be your focus in the coming months.

2. All hail the fire pits!

A beautiful patio fire pit can do wonders when it comes to outdoor design. You’ll be amazed at how much time will be spent around the fire as the sun fades away, and your guests wrap themselves in blankets around this focal point of your deck.

Fire pits can be found online or in nearly any outdoor furniture or goods store. They have certainly made a come back in the market over the last few years.

3. You’ve cleaned your garden and planters, now is the time to revive with fresh year-round plants

In step one we advised that you prepare the foundation for what is to come – that is, clean your outdoor space and lay fresh ground.

Now is the time to revive your garden and planters with fresh patio plants and florals that can withstand the warmth in the Summer, yet hold strong in the Winter. Boxwood hedges are beautiful additions to a patio, as are Calla Lilies.  Select the best patio planter for your lifestyle, and have some fun at a local farmer’s market or nursery to find exactly what you want!

4. Enjoy searching for outdoor furniture

Outdoor furniture can be so much fun to shop for. Not only do incredible, local companies make some impressive outdoor furniture options, such furniture can also add so much life to your outdoor space. Personally, we love large furniture that takes into account enough space for parties and socializing around the outdoor firepits. Be sure to take into account the space needed outdoors for guests and family alike.

5. Don’t forget the lighting

Being outdoors in the Summer, late into the evening, means that you can’t forget the lighting. There are plenty of outdoor lighting options that will add character to your space, such as patios with strings upon strings of unique lighting.

We love the addition of string lighting to a backyard patio, as it adds an urban twist to any space. Uplighting can also be used strategically with flat spaces, such as uplighting on your outdoor fence. Visualize your space and use lighting in a thoughtful, unique way to truly impress.

Start off your Summer with some 2018 Spring outdoor design ideas. It’s what we love to do here at MDK Designs. It’s a time of the year when the days are longer, the evenings are extended and fresh air is plenty. Consider taking a risk this Summer and explore an area of your patio, backyard or outdoor space that you might not have ventured into before. Some new 2018 Spring outdoor design ideas may help you enjoy the entire summer season. Contact Melanie Kokoros at MDK Design Associates to discuss some ideas for your outdoor space this Spring.