Summer is my season! There is nothing I love more than lazy pool days and family barbecues on the patio. My favourite things to wear are light summer dresses and flip-flops. I do everything I can to enjoy every minute of this fleeting season, and you should too!
As an experienced interior design consultant, I often get asked how to dress up a house for the summer weather. It's a time when we all want to create a refreshing and vibrant atmosphere in our homes, and there are many ways to achieve this. Here are some ideas to help you get started:
To start, Welcome your guests
Make sure your guests are welcomed right from your front door. Add seasonal pots full of colourful flowers or tropical-feeling plants like palms, banana leaves, grasses, canna lilies, or ferns. Colour and vibrant green will instantly make both you and your guests feel like you are on vacation.
Stock your beer fridges and lemonade carts with beverages and colourful barware. Be mindful of providing plastic glassware for pools and hot tubs. Keep a stack of extra towels next to the pool and provide easily accessible baskets for wet laundry.
Here are a few ways to transform your home into your personal summer oasis:
Bring in Bright Colors
One of the first things you can do is to replace heavy drapes and dark-colored accessories with light and bright colors. Consider adding colorful throw pillows, vibrant rugs, or curtains in light, airy fabrics to create a summery feel. This is a simple home improvement that can make a big difference. The bright colors can also be appealing to home buyers, adding a touch of personality and warmth to your space.
Remember, when adding bright colors to your home, it's important to consider the overall balance and harmony of the space. Too many bright colors can make the space feel chaotic, while too few can make it feel dull. It's all about finding the right balance that works for you and your home.
Incorporate Natural Elements
Embrace the beauty of nature by incorporating natural elements into your decor. Use fresh flowers or potted plants to add a touch of greenery. Display seashells, driftwood, or beach-themed artwork to evoke a coastal ambiance. As an interior design consultant, I can't stress enough the importance of using natural elements in your design. They not only add a unique touch to your space but also create a calming and relaxing atmosphere.
Update the Linens
Swap out heavy winter blankets and comforters for lighter bedding in cheerful patterns and colors. Opt for lightweight fabrics such as cotton or linen to create a cool and inviting feel. I am a huge fan of flannel sheets in the winter but swap them out as soon as we are into spring.
Consider adding a colorful tablecloth or runner to your dining table as well. This is a cost-effective home improvement that can significantly change the look and feel of your rooms. Pick up wooden or woven placemats for your patio and bring texture to your table.
Use Decorative Summer Accessories
Add decorative accessories that reflect the season. Place vibrant, summery-themed cushions on your outdoor furniture. Hang a colorful wind chime or a decorative mobile near an open window. Incorporate beach-inspired decor, such as nautical stripes, anchors, or seashell-shaped items. Pull out your lanterns to add a soft glow to your warm summer nights. These small changes can make a big difference and can be very appealing to home buyers.
Create Outdoor Living Spaces
Take advantage of the warmer weather by creating inviting outdoor living spaces. Arrange comfortable seating areas on your patio or balcony with weather-resistant cushions and outdoor rugs. Add potted plants, hanging baskets, and outdoor lighting to enhance the ambiance. This is a great way to extend your living space and enjoy the beautiful summer weather.
My favourite summer accessory is likely the outdoor rug. As an indoor carpet, they help ground the space and mark specific rooms or furniture grouping on your patio or deck. The addition of texture and pattern will instantly soften a hardscape and make it feel warm and inviting.
Let in Natural Light
Remove heavy curtains or blinds and allow natural light to brighten your interiors. Replace them with sheer or light-colored curtains that allow sunlight to filter through while maintaining privacy.
Keep windows clean to maximize the natural light entering your home. This is a simple yet effective home improvement that can make your space feel more open and airy.
Add Summer Scents
Use scented candles, essential oil diffusers, or fresh flowers to infuse your home with summer fragrances. Opt for light, citrusy, or floral scents that evoke a sense of freshness and relaxation. This is a simple way to enhance the atmosphere in your home and create a welcoming environment.
Emphasize Outdoor Dining
Set up a charming outdoor dining area with a table and chairs. Use bright table linens, colorful dinnerware, and fun drinkware to create a festive atmosphere. Hang outdoor string lights or lanterns above the dining area for added ambiance during evening gatherings. This is a great way to make the most of the summer weather and enjoy meals outdoors.
Outdoor lighting, lanterns, candles, torches, and string lights along balconies, along your eaves, and now incorporated into many patio umbrellas will help to create enchanting spaces your guests will never want to leave.
Patio heaters and fire bowls not only add ambiance but add hours to your patio experience and warm afternoons turn to cooler evenings and will also extend your patio time well into the fall.
Display Summer Artwork
Change up your wall decor by showcasing artwork that captures the essence of summer. Choose pieces that depict landscapes, beach scenes, or vibrant floral arrangements to bring a summery vibe to your space. This is a great way to refresh your decor and add a touch of summer to your home.
Keep It Cool
Consider adding fans, airy curtains, or shades to keep your home cool during hot summer days. Create a comfortable and refreshing environment by ensuring proper air circulation. This is not only a practical home improvement but also contributes to the overall comfort and ambiance of your home.
Incorporating these ideas into your home can create a refreshing and vibrant atmosphere that is perfect for the summer. As an interior design consultant, I can assure you that these changes will not only enhance your living space but also potentially increase the appeal of your home to potential buyers.
Remember!
Home improvements don't always have to be large-scale projects. Sometimes, it's the small changes that make the biggest difference. Whether you're planning to sell your home or simply want to enjoy a more summery vibe, these tips can help you create a home that feels like a summer getaway.
If you need more personalized advice or assistance, reach out to me to provide recommendations based on your specific needs and preferences.
For those considering larger home improvement projects, it's worth exploring home improvement loans or government grants for home improvement. These can help offset the costs and make your home improvement dreams a reality.
Finally, if you're a first-time home buyer, take these tips into consideration when viewing potential homes. Look for homes with bright, natural light, outdoor living spaces, and a layout that allows for easy updates and personalization.
A house is not just a place to live, but a place to make your own.
Dressing up your house for the summer weather can be a fun and rewarding project. With a little creativity and effort, you can transform your home into a vibrant and refreshing summer haven.
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