This week brings the official first day of spring -- and the opening of Bachman's Spring Ideas House, "A Relaxing Renewal." The Bachman family's historic home has been freshly redecorated with soft botanical colors, natural elements and earthy textures.

Theme rooms include the dining room set for a spring brunch, a jungle-themed boy's bedroom, and a seed-starting station on the front porch. You can also expect to see lots of big statement blooms, both fresh and permanent, in surprising places throughout the home.

The Spring Ideas House will be open every day, starting Thursday, through April 15. Tickets are $5, with $1 donated to the Minneapolis Institute of Arts' "Art in Bloom" event. Tickets are on sale now at www.bachmans.com and at 612-861-7311. The house is at 5936 Lyndale Av. S., Mpls.

Outdoor living After a run of balmy days, we're all eager to start the patio and deck season. If yours could use some new furniture, either for entertaining or relaxing, you can get ideas at Gabberts' free seminar "Moving Out(doors) in Minnesota." Jennifer Ball will share current designs in outdoor furniture that work well in our climate. The seminar will be held 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at Gabberts, 3501 Galleria, Edina.

He hates your house ... But he can help you love even the parts you don't especially like. James Swan, designer and author of "101 Things I Hate About Your House," is coming to town March 26 for an event at the W Minneapolis-The Foshay, 821 Marquette Av. S. The event kicks off with a cocktail reception at 5:30 p.m., a Q&A program at 6:30 and a book-signing from 7:30 to 8:30. To attend, RSVP by Tuesday to wmpls@hansonpr.com.

Fashion-forward design If you have a flair for fashion and want to incorporate the latest looks into your home decor, here's a design event for you. LiLu Interiors, as part of its Inspiring Design series, is offering a free "Fashion + Interiors" event on April 25.

Guests will see five interior vignettes designed to reflect the distinct style of live models who will be outfitted in the latest fashions from local boutiques. Light hors d'oeuvres will be served, and space is limited. Please RSVP to rik@liluinteriors.com. The event will be held 5 to 8 p.m. April 25 at Lilu Design Studio, International Market Square, Mpls.