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Let Nature's Renewal Inspire You

The days are getting longer, temperatures are warming up and soon there will be leaves on the trees again.  You know what that means - time to redecorate.  Every change of season serves as inspiration to make what's old new again.

This time of year, magazines are filled with articles about the latest trends in decorating.  The experts say bright, brilliant reds and oranges complimented with grayed-out neutrals are hot for Spring.

There will also be a major change in furniture styles. Overstuffed sofas are out; eclectic couches and other pieces featuring modern shapes, luxurious fabrics and down-filled comfort are in.

But you don't have to change your furniture or paint the walls to make a dramatic seasonal change in your home.  All you have to do is switch out the accessories. A good place to start is in the room where you spend the majority of your time - the bedroom.

"People don't realize what a dramatic difference something as simple as switching out their  duvet covers or other top-of-bed accessories can make but, from a design standpoint, the impact can be huge," says Virginia Peale of Olivier Desforges, a French purveyor of fine bed linens.

If you're like most people, you either keep the same comforter on your bed all year round, or you've been using a dark colored one all winter.  Start your home's spring transformation by investing in a new one.  Not sure what design you want?  Log on to the Olivier Desforges Web site, www.olivierdesforges.comfor some ideas.

If you want to follow the seasonal trend and be bold, the Liang line may be just what you've been looking for.  Inspired by Russian folklore, this scarlet red percale with embroidered lacy braids is as bright as a gypsy's petticoat.  The duvet cover and matching sheet sets are available in king, queen and twin sizes.

Want a look that's more traditional yet elegant? Palatine glows in golden beige sateen, with a jacquard-woven rose motif. "It's a sensuous pattern that can stand alone or blend with many of the other Olivier Desforges designs now available," says Peale.

Once you decide on a theme to dress up your bed, carry it through the room with matching accessories, like towels, throws, picture frames and pillows.

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