For me, there is no time of the year more motivating than spring. At one point in my life it was the thought of wearing a swimsuit that got me energised, but these days, it’s spring entertaining! There’s no doubt in my mind that we have the remnants of a hibernation instinct, and as the days get longer and the mercury starts to rise, we emerge from our winter cocoons; we’re suddenly inspired to get sociable and start inviting people over again. At almost that exact same moment, our home shows its true colours (or lack of colour, in my case). The cosy nights of winter seem dusty and airless; the warm hues and luscious throws feel cloying and suffocating, and in desperate need of a wash. We’re faced with an instant desire to cull and refresh. My living room, for example, has been a haven of comfort this chilly winter, but now it seems so grey, and so dark, I wonder how I didn’t notice it before. I’m dying to add some sheer curtains, new cushions with a splash of bright yellow, and a simple but vibrant rug.

Or, possibly, I’ll forget all about the living room, and simply move outdoors and attempt to re-create this month’s breathtaking cover. I am seriously in love with that chair and those cushions… and that deck, and bed, and the teal accents… Either way, I’m gripped by the itch of a spring makeover – the idea of cleaning the windows, reorganising my linen closet and moving my furniture around is suddenly a really exciting notion.

And getting home with the light of day still ahead of you? Well, that’s just heaven!

Editor