Southampton - There's something about Spring - warm, sunny days, and new buds on the trees signal nature's annual wake-up call after a long dark winter. No wonder our collective morale rises.

The "Rites of Spring" originated as Pagan rituals to celebrate delivery from the lethargy of winter, longer daylight hours, returning warmth and the start of the planting season. It's a time of new beginnings. Undoubtedly, the notion of Spring Cleaning as an annual event developed as part of the preparation for the festivities.

As such, be it ever so humble, celebrating the return of spring by sprucing up your home is a tradition with roots in the past. You will find that switching out, throwing out and refurbishing the re-usable is a terrific low-cost way to further lift your spirits to greet the new season in style.

First Things First
Spring Cleaning entails more than just mopping behind the sofa. It's odd how all those little piles of "things" tend to move from place to place around a room without actually decreasing in size, isn't it? It's time to address the real issue. This persistent "clutter problem" happens less often because you are inherently a slob, but more often because no space has been designated for the things you want and need.

Consider repurposing some objects and furniture to add a new look.

Start by editing ruthlessly. The ancient/broken/non-relevant items should be weeded out and banished. This means extra, unloved furniture too. Once you have created some legitimate breathing space around the "keepables," you'll be able to effectively plan an organization strategy with wall units, cabinets and containers. Though this de-cluttering and "has been" removal may be a sizeable chore, it will do wonders for improving your general frame of mind.

In your quest to clear out the old and de-clutter the rest, ask yourself if that "extra unloved furniture" can be used in a new way or live in a new place if it's repaired, repainted or re-covered. What about that old chest? Could it be refinished or painted to make an interesting coffee table that also provides storage? That odd wooden chair is remarkable because of its architectural shape. It could be used as an attractive bookstand. Collections of items such as hats, plates, baskets or dolls, etc. can make appealing wall art. Be inventive. Here is an opportunity to see the world and the objects in it from a fresh perspective. Old becomes new with a different attitude, and perhaps a coat of paint.

Speaking of paint, it's amazing what white paint can do for a battered object. The dings and imperfections seem to disappear. All you notice is the shape.

If you are looking to freshen up a "summer home," the power of paint for walls and floors is magic. Clear colors in shades of pink, blue, chartreuse and yellow say "Sunny Day." Don't neglect to make color sample boards, or at the very least, paint big swatches on the walls, before you commit. Clear colors, though invigorating, can be overwhelming if too bright and perky.

If you have maintained white floors up until now, consider indigo blue this year instead. It reminds one of deep water and all the pleasures associated with summer by the sea.

Visit local flea markets, thrift stores and estate sales, but remember - buyer beware.

It can be fun and rewarding to take the DIY route, but do remember to be "green" about it. By now you probably know about VOC's. Not only are paints and stains now offered in eco-friendly formulas promising low VOC's, but also there are also water-based sealants to be had for the asking. Check with your local hardware/paint dealer to find out about the latest products for refinishing anything from objects to floors in an environmentally protective way.

Take A Field Trip
Once you have the hang of thinking outside the box on how to re-purpose old things in a clever way, take your new found skill on the road by visiting the local flea markets, estate sales or even the neighborhood thrift stores. This is a great way to add to your collections or acquire unusual objects to retrofit into your current décor. Look for old picture frames while you are at it. They can usually be picked up for the proverbial song and can add a lot of character to your artwork and the rooms where your artwork lives.

You might actually come across a treasure hidden in a pile of otherwise certifiable junk. Not to put too fine a point on it, but while some sources insist that an antique must be at least 100 years old, a vintage item can be from virtually any decade or era. One man's beer is another man's champagne, etc.

In these "off markets," make a note to self: "Buyer Beware And Be Knowledgeable." You may luck out and find a real treasure sold by a dealer who doesn't have a clue of its value. Then again, you might also think you're getting a bargain by virtue of buying at a flea market when actually you're paying regular retail, or worse.

Fresh flowers in a simple vase will add cheer to any decor.

Let Me Count The Ways
In the same way you distinguish between your cold weather wardrobe and warm weather clothes, consider where a "seasonal wardrobe" for your home furnishings and accessories can breathe new life into a stale winter environment.

 • Slipcovers for the upholstered furniture are an inspired idea. They can be removed for dry cleaning when necessary, and offer opportunity for seasonal variety.

 • Switch out the bedclothes. A different set of sheets, shams, pillowcases, blankets, bed spreads and/or duvet covers will give you the look of a redecorated bedroom, instantly.

 • Don't overlook the effect of switching out the pillows on chairs and sofas too. This goes for the throws and blankets that may be in use as well. These small changes in color and texture make a notable difference.

 • Speaking of "throws": throw rugs in certain areas can easily be replaced with inexpensive, light-weight cotton dhurries. Stripes always look fresh and add punch.

 • Some of your window dressings can be switched out for lighter sheers or taken down completely this time of year.

 • Rotate your artwork and wall hangings as they have a big effect on setting the tone on your environment. It's a good time to lighten up and create a more playful "point of view."

Say It With Flowers
Nothing says Spring like a gorgeous bouquet. Nature is bountiful now so there is no excuse for not treating yourself well, and often. An additional perk this time of year is the availability of lemons or seasonal fruits to fill big bowls. Your rooms will be scented in a wonderful way.

Spring into summer - and have a great time!