Sunny days are ahead. Chances are you’re happily making vacation plans with bikini and sunscreen on standby. But does your home reflect the warmer weather? With a few simple changes, you can welcome summer inside and make your home cool and bright—just like your outlook.
Lighten Up
Let the sunshine in, literally. Swap out heavy draperies for sheer white panels that catch the breeze when you fling open the doors. You can bring that same airy feel to your floors, too. Roll up the high-pile rugs, because nothing feels better underfoot on a warm day than a cool flat-weave cotton or seagrass rug. Indoor-outdoor rugs are also a great choice. They’re made with synthetic fibers that resist moisture, which helps on those high humidity days. And in the bedroom, opt for lighter layers on the bed. Pair a lightweight cotton quilt or linen coverlet with a crisp set of sheets for a blissful night’s rest.
Punch up the Color
Summer is the perfect time for a playful mix of cool hues and graphic patterns. Slip on new pillow covers and toss down a light throw in lively yellow, apple green and spa blue. You can also swap out your accessories. Add a trio of colorful vases to a shelf, layer in a bright melamine tray and switch out dark wall art for something that pops. In the kitchen, display a large bowl of lemons and limes for citrus-y fun, summer color.
Bring the Outside In
Let your décor reflect the beauty of summer with natural materials and outdoor-inspired elements. Potted plants and herbs or a terrarium are a great way to incorporate nature, but if you don’t have the time (or green thumb) to create an indoor garden, place a few leafy greens or shrubs from your yard in a vase. Your natural bouquet will last about a month. If you have a seashell collection, display it in a bowl or glass hurricanes. Even easier, choose tropical, floral or nautical motifs in your dishware, towels and artwork to display around the house.
Extend Your Living Space
Regardless of whether you have a small balcony or a sprawling porch and patio, you can take advantage of summer’s fresh air when you create an inviting outdoor space just beyond your living quarters. Invest in a few pieces of comfortable patio furniture and fill out the rest of the space with fun accessories: pillows, paper lanterns and a colorful outdoor rug. Without much effort, you can create a relaxing retreat for reading, dining and enjoying with friends all summer long. Plus, you’ll love the view from inside whenever you pull up the blinds.
Have we inspired you to bring a little sunshine into your home this summer? Tell us what you think – and share your own fresh ideas – in the comments below.
