The frantic spring and fall cleanings of long past are, fortunately for us, long gone. Maintenance today is a lighter, year-round task. Mothproofed carpet and fabric, sunfast colors and soil-resistant materials have eliminated the need for seasonal changes. But that raises a questions. Do we want to lose entirely the freshness and renewed enjoyment that change can bring? Just a few inexpensive, cooling variations will make your home a pleasure to live in all summer. And in the fall, when you restore the rooms to their original decor, they're sure to look newly inviting.
The changes needn't be major. Your carpet, for instance, can stay as is. Summerizing may amount to no more than crisp new slipcovers, an airier window treatment, the use of fewer accessories. You'll be amazed what these can add to the joy of living.
Remove heavy draperies and, in their place, put sheer white curtains or bamboo blinds.
Cool off your color scheme with plenty of white and cool colors. Let's suppose your carpet is orange and your upholstery is velvet- both hot and heavy. You could relieve both by changing to curtains and slipcovers of a yellow and white checked gingham, or a green, yellow and white print. Another possibility is plain white sailcloth for slipcovers and curtains of sheer, soft white.
And cut down on clutter- a busy room is far from cool.
In the fall, when you bring out your possessions again, how rich and different the rooms will look! The recommended changes are eminently worth the slight extra expense and effort.
Friday Back When is a weekly feature highlighting images and text from vintage decorating books. Today’s exert is from The Complete Family Interior Decorating Book, 1972