Spring & Summer Design Projects: Refresh Your Home Without the Remodel

Spring is here and summer is around the corner—which means it’s prime time to hit reset on your space. Whether you want to make a big splash or keep things simple, we’ve got ideas to help your home feel fresh and intentional this season.

Small Projects with Big Payoff

Start with Texture, Color, and Personality

You don’t need a full renovation to make a statement. We love starting with interchangeable decor like pillows, florals, rugs, and shelf styling to reflect the season. Want something a little more impactful? Try a mural or wallpaper feature wall—you can always paint over it later!

And never underestimate the power of paint. A bold accent wall or even a small bathroom refresh can completely shift the energy of your home.

Color and Material Trends We’re Loving

Rich Meets Airy

Earthy tones are still in—think terracotta, olive, burgundy—but we’re loving how these colors pop when paired with airy yellows, pale blues, or light mauves. The result? A space that feels warm, grounded, and perfectly seasonal.

Materials matter too. Hand-thrown pottery, travertine, marble, and natural fiber textiles (like linen and cotton) help bring a soft, timeless feel to any room.

Summer Updates Without a Full Reno

Start Small, Think Big

Our go-to summer advice? Tackle your home updates in layers. Start with decor. Then move to paint or wall treatments. And if you're still itching for change, consider updates like cabinet paint, new hardware, or fresh lighting and plumbing fixtures—they pack major punch without a full remodel.

We help clients evaluate what to keep, what to refresh, and what to rethink completely.

A Current Favorite Project: Union Park Revival

We’re currently finishing a 1901 craftsman-style rehab with InvestDSM in Union Park, and it might be one of our favorites yet. Think original millwork, exposed beams, and moody Mediterranean flair with paprika-colored cabinets, patterned tiles, and timeless finishes. It’s the kind of project that reminds us how fun design can be when old meets bold.

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Behind the Design: How ALT Brings Interior Projects to Life

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Interior Design in Des Moines: ALT’s Local Take for 2025