Spring is officially here! The snowdrops are out and the winter sun is gradually hotting up. As we dust away those cobwebs and gradually let the light back in, Samantha Maskrey, marketing director for contemporary furniture store Maskreys, which has a branch in Newport, offers some expert advice on how to take your spring clean one step further to freshen up your pad.

Spring is a time for renewal, so don't resist the urge to add some extra sparkle to your home as well! But changing your dcor for the new season needn't be expensive - combine a little creativity with some expert know-how and you will go a long way.

As a first step, why not inject some vitality into your home with the latest spring shades. Colour is back: think hot and tropical such as fuschia, lime and turquoise.

Add a splash of colour to the room with a fresh coat of paint. You only need to cover a single wall to add instant life and give your home that contemporary edge.

Alternatively, make the most of these spring shades with well chosen accessories, such as coloured vases or scattered cushions. Speckled and printed fabrics are especially en vogue with bright, floral designs and Art Deco inspired patterns.

If you really want to go to town, why not choose one of award-winning Phillipe Starck's Ghost Francois mirrors? Manufactured in polycarbonate, they come in a variety of gorgeous colours that will not only add instant glamour to your home but will also reflect the light to make your room appear spacious, bright and airy.

Substitute thick winter curtains with lighter fabrics. Voile and cotton will filter in the light and bathe your room in sunshine. Next, reposition your chairs and tables towards the windows and enjoy the outside views as you relax indoors.

If you want to go one step further, invest in some of the latest lacquer furniture. Not only is it extremely cutting edge, it will also reflect the light to help your home radiate sunshine.

Add some freshly cut spring flowers, and your interiors will be well and truly set for spring.