In spring, we queued tulips and rainy days, but now it’s the summer glow. That means it’s time to trade those cozy throws and pastel floral prints for something a little sunny, lighter, and yes, more fun. To refresh your summer home, think of refreshing linens, bold pops of colours, and spaces that feel like a holiday you never have to cram in.
Whether you’re a summer lover of a broken arrow, if you’re trying to survive the heat of your apartment in Wake Forest, North Carolina, or accept the bright colors of a rental home in Spring Hill, Tennessee, these tips will help you give your home that effortless seasonal glow. Are you ready to bring sunlight? Let’s get started.
In this article:
1. Replace heavy textures
2. Includes seasonal floral patterns
3. Spend time to refresh your outdoor space
4. Bring the outdoors
5. Accepts the coastal atmosphere
6. Rearrange the furniture
7. Try a fresh paint color
8. Exchange dark colors for light colors
1. Replace heavy textures
As the seasons change, so does your home texture. Start by storing these dense winter layers and bringing lighter, more breathable elements that reflect the relaxed charm of summer.
“Swap heavy throws for a light, colorful cushion, add bright flowers or potted plants and give instant cheers,” suggests Julia Le Menova, lifestyle blogger at Julie’s Place. “Fresh paint and cute summer wreaths can really enhance the curb appeal.”
Don’t overlook the power of color. “The slightest shade of green gives a sense of fresh and peacefulness,” says Stacey Spear, owner of S&S Paintings in Mechanicville, Virginia. “Emphasise that there is a new pillow or two in the room. You’re on track.”
2. Includes seasonal floral patterns
Summer is a way to show off nature. So why not let your house do the same? One of the easiest (and most fun) ways to welcome the season is to fill in the space with fresh, fragrant flowers. Whether you’re picking up sunflowers at the market or cutting out a few branches from your backyard, it’s all about adding life and color in a simple and beautiful way.
Richellwood, Founder and Creator of Flower Bar Shop, said: “Pick up flower wraps from your favorite local florist or clip some blooming branches from your garden for a simple, organic touch.”
Remy from Labellum Flowers shares a new perspective on weekly bouquets. “Thinking each week’s bouquet as your new best friend in your home brings a pop of colour, a fun scent and a good vibe for everything. It’s like a seasonal mini celebration.”
3. Spend time to refresh your outdoor space
Summer is made to slowly soak in the sun and enjoy all kinds of breezes. And your outdoor space should reflect that sense of security. “The best way to make an outdoor area feel like a true living room is to create a unique space,” says Adriena Daunt, interior designer at Montana-based Daunt Designs.
“We use pavement, decks, outdoor rugs, lighting and planter boxes to create visual boundaries for the ‘room’, rather than floating patio furniture in the garden,” continues Daunt. “Next, we’ll add all the accessories and furniture you’ll use in your interior spaces, such as pillows, throws, and side tables, all to the colours and textures of your summer interior design.”
One easy and impactful way to update your setup is to update your outdoor dining essentials. “Refreshing a summer home is as easy as stocked in outdoor dining wear. You can motivate those fresco dinners by drinking melamine plates and fun colours and patterns.” Swapping daily dishes with vibrant, durable, outdoor-friendly pieces adds a pop of personality, but it also feels like a special occasion to eat outside.
4. Bring the outdoors
Summer is not only a way to smoke the sun outside, but also a great excuse to allow the beauty of the season to wander indoors.
To do so, Justine Thibault, founder and designer of Floral Design Studio Jae Le Mae, said, “We will exchange heavy textiles for gurgy linen curtains dancing in the breeze, and a hand-crafted ceramic dark vase filled with wild, seasonal flowers and layers of plant prints and tapestries of vintell flowers.”
Justin also recommends adding a small, thoughtful touch to the entire house. It brings effortless organic beauty to every corner, like a bowl of fresh citrus fruits on the counter, or a vase of petite buds placed next to a nightstand, shelves, or even a sink.
5. Accepts the coastal atmosphere
You don’t need to live near the sea to guide the subtle, suitable beach town atmosphere at home. Some simple swaps can bring gentle, sunshine, and relaxed charm to your space. No passport is required.
“I like to exchange the scent of my home for a more beachy, coastal atmosphere,” says Christine, the lifestyle blogger behind Tineey. “I love switching dark bedding to bright colors, especially blue and white. Using lightweight fabrics like linen will add summer-themed ornaments and think of lemon, voyage or bright colors.”
Her advice is to create a sensory experience. Starting with summer scents, towards the visuals, accents with sea tones such as crisp white sheets, refreshing linen throws, deep blue and sandy beige. There’s a space that feels like a mini vacation right away.
6. Rearrange the furniture
“Do you have another furniture layout you’ve always wanted to try? Summer is the perfect time to shake things up,” said Dominic Conterti, owner and principal designer of Conterti Residential in Arlington, Virginia. “You can also rearrange existing pieces and try out new rugs.”
Create more open and refreshing paths and play around with. Move that side chair to the other side of the room and try taking a fresh angle or shifting the sofa to face another view. Don’t forget to pull the dining table near those sun-drenched windows. Let the light in and let the space breathe.
7. Try a fresh paint color
There’s something magical about how fresh paint can completely transform your home, especially when the seasons require a little extra brightness.
“For summer home refreshment, think of painting,” suggests Melissa Connolly, the leading designer of authentic interiors at the Chicago, Illinois-based interior design company. “Painting the walls brightens the space unparalleled, and painting the furniture gives it a whole new lifespan, especially with new hardware.”
Light tones are the perfect way to guide the season. Charles Graves of the Charles Graves Painting Company in northern Virginia says, “Light and airy colors like soft white, coastal blue, or warm beige will completely change the space and make you feel bigger and more attractive.” Whether you’re drawing accent walls, furniture or doors, those soft, refreshing colors can open your home, and have plenty of just a few brushes, are wider and more welcome.
8. Exchange dark colors for light colors
Summer wants light tones that reflect the season’s easy vibe. It’s time to say goodbye to those heavy, dark colors and welcome the brightness that makes everything feel more lively.
Journalist and freelance writer Maria Kaleja said, “Swap out the vibrant coloured flooring material, blue, pink or green, for a gray blanket and rug. Incorporate natural patterns on accent pillows or walls to comfort green leaves and tasteful bird patterns.”
Bring these bright colours and nature-inspired prints will instantly lift the atmosphere of any room. With soft tones such as seafoam green, coral and sunny yellow, your space feels more airy, warm and ready for summer carefree energy.
Refreshing new seasons at your summer home
A few small changes are all you need to change your home from spring to summer. Maybe it’s ready for a pop of citrus colours, some refreshing new fabric, or ultimately a patio guest. Open the windows, let warm breezes in and enjoy the space you feel as ready for summer as you do.
