As we emerge from our cosy cocoons, retailers are pulling out all the stops, showcasing products, paints and furniture in cheerful hues for spring. Where do you start? You may want to refresh a room as part of your seasonal to-do list, but there are other ways to renew a space. “I'm looking forward to swapping out my chunky knits and warm wools for brightly coloured, patterned, natural fibres,” says Toronto-based designer Lisa Canning of Lisa Canning Interiors.

Speaking of patterns, fresh, modern florals are blooming on everything from rugs to wallpaper this season. “You just can't help but think ‘spring’ when looking at flowers,” says Lisa. If you’re not quite ready to channel Laura Ashley on such a grand scale, Lisa suggests subtle accessories. “Pillows are a great way to try out a trend that doesn't take much commitment: If a floral wallpaper pattern seems daunting, a small dose in a pillow is a fun way to try the trend.”

This advice may also apply to Pantone’s colour of the year; the company made a bold statement in its trend forecast by choosing Tangerine Tango for 2012. “Orange, like all colours, may not be for everyone, but trying it in accessories can add a dynamic punch to a space,” recommends Lisa. If you’re looking for tamer paint swatches, Lisa says watercolour hues, like soft greens, blues, yellows and purples, are also on trend for spring 2012.

And, as more and more people consider their patios to be an extension of their home, you can bring any of these hues outside. Look for washable outdoor fabrics. When it comes to outdoor furniture, landscape designer Shawn Gallaugher sees a reconnection with nature through the use of organic materials for 2012. “The use of reclaimed wood or other materials for furniture, screens or patios will give your garden its unique character and a sense of timelessness as the organic materials connect to the nature of your garden,” he says. Look for wooden planters or side tables derived from tree stumps, screens made from limbs, and benches and tables made from ruff or aging lumber.

Whether you’re in the market for bright accessories or gathering ideas to plan out a room redo, we’ve gathered six spring home decor trends.
Oversized florals
Lisa considers oversized florals in wallpaper patterns and textiles as one of the biggest trends of the year. “Utilizing it in a large-scale repeat keeps it modern,” she says. Floral rug, Amy Butler, see store for details.
Switch up your textiles
Change your textiles, your throw pillows, your beautiful blankets, and even your napkins to reflect a fresher, more lively colour palette,” says Lisa. Bedding, Anthropologie, see store for details.
Pillows, pillows, pillows
“There are so many options on the market at many accessible price points,” says Lisa. “Depending on fabric and colour choice, you can completely change the look of your living room in a short amount of time.” Throw pillows, West Elm, $35.32.
What's cooking in the kitchen
“Grey is still going strong for cabinets, countertops and backsplashes,” says Lisa. “What I love about grey as a modern neutral is that it allows you to introduce and decorate with colour as an accent—some fuchsia flowers or an orange bowl will provide energy and contrast and a fun surprise ‘pop’ to a grey kitchen.” Photo courtesy of Ikea UK. 
Will you tango with tangerine?
While it might not be what you have in mind for a paint colour, 2012’s Pantone colour of the year can be incorporated with smaller items. “I love orange storage boxes or flower vases in a high lacquer finish,” says Lisa. Storage cubes, CB2, $149.00.
Watercolour hues
If bold hues are not your speed, according to Lisa, soft greens, blues, yellows and purples are also very much in style for 2012 paint colour trends. Behr Paints, see store for details.

Check out these other 10 design trends to try in your home.