How to give your home a new look this spring

Economic ways to give your home a new look for spring range from a fresh coat of paint to new artwork and embellishing those lamp shades.

Members of the Illinois chapter of the American Association of Interior Designers offer their best season-changing tips.

"One of the reasons why I became an interior designer is because I saw my aunt make little changes within her home each spring - simple yet wonderful creations - that made the atmosphere very warm and welcoming," said Faye Lovitsch, owner of a Wheaton company that bears her name.

"I've carried on this tradition and encourage my clients to make inexpensive changes that are easily achievable."

For Cindi Schwarz of Preferred Interior Design Group in Lake Forest, "The idea is to transition from the heaviness of winter to the lightness of spring."

And here are some ideas from them and other designers.

•When you're picking new accents like pillows, throw in clean green, brilliant turquoise or bright pink, says Schwarz.

•Lovitsch's favorite paint colors for your room's new look are from Benjamin Moore. She likes Concord Ivory, the soft green of Mesquite and Catalina Blue.

•Envision a fresh piece of art - it doesn't have to be expensive - on that new paint job, says Schwarz.

•Try a unique, spring-themed centerpiece, says Lovitsch. "I found a charming birdcage, painted it and placed floral pieces around it for one of clients. It was a big hit."

•If your china is black or white, designers want you to add dazzling hues. You can do this with bowls or salad plates, textiles, glasses or even candles.

•If your lamp shades are dark, get some light ones and maybe glue on some trim, says Schwarz.

•Of course you will want to bring in some spring flowers. How could anything possibly say spring any louder or more easily?