Memorial Day marks the starting whistle for summer, with its warmer weather and the promise of all things fun and casual. With the flip of the calendar, homeowners across the country are gearing up to transform their indoor and outdoor spaces for the long days and warm nights ahead. Whether it’s revamping your living room for those summer movie nights or getting the grill area prepped for countless cookouts, this is the perfect time for a home redesign.
Lighten Up Your Living Spaces
Refresh With Summery Colors
To start, think summer hues. Swapping out dark throw pillows and blankets for lighter shades instantly brightens up a room. Soft yellows and cool blues evoke the beach, while mint greens and coral pinks bring in a tropical vibe. For a quick, inexpensive splash of color, consider changing out your window treatments or adding a statement rug in an airy pattern.
Bring the Outdoors In
Integrate natural elements to capitalize on the season. Houseplants thrive in the months of plentiful sunlight, and they purify the air too. Rearrange your furniture to take advantage of natural light and position indoor plants near windows to enhance a sense of space. A fresh bouquet of flowers can be the perfect touch for your coffee table or mantle, exuding both a pleasant fragrance and chic seasonal decor.
Seasonal Art and Accessories
Swap out any wall art for pieces that celebrate summer – photography of the beach or landscapes is a great choice. Update the mantle and shelves with summer-themed accessories such as woven baskets, seashells, or glass floats. For a modern touch, consider artwork or décor that features abstract forms in bright, beachy colors.
Jazz Up Your Patio, Deck, or Balcony
Weather-Resistant Furnishings
Invest in durable, weather-resistant patio furniture that can stand up to summer showers and UV rays. Look for products with anti-fade fabric and rust-resistant frames. Add a burst of color with outdoor throw pillows and cushions in coordinating colors.
Entertaining Essentials
Prepare your outdoor space for gatherings with a new set of tableware and serveware that screams summer. Acrylic or melamine plates in vibrant tropical designs add a festive touch without the worry of breakage. Don’t forget large, shatterproof drinkware for those backyard BBQs!
Cozy Touches
Make your outdoor space a cozy oasis with the addition of an outdoor rug and a few throw blankets. String lights or lanterns create a warm, inviting glow for evening get-togethers. Enhance the ambiance further with insect-repellent candles that come in a variety of pleasant scents.
Maximizing Your Garden and Green Spaces
Lush Landscaping
Perform some post-winter maintenance on your green spaces with new mulch or rock, especially around high-traffic areas. The color and texture of your landscaping can play as much a part in your home’s overall appeal as the interior design. Create defined spaces with planters, raised garden beds, and trellises.
Outdoor Oasis
If you have the space, turn a corner of your yard into an outdoor lounge with a pergola or gazebo and comfortable outdoor seating. Add an outdoor fireplace or fire pit for those cooler nights – perfect for toasting marshmallows or just enjoying the crackle and warmth of a fire.
Revamping Your Culinary Space
Grill and Chill
Your grill is the heart of many summer activities, so start by giving it a good cleaning and checking for any necessary repairs. Update your grilling tools and accessories for a fresh start to the season. Don’t forget to stock up on charcoal or propane, and consider adding a portable grill for on-the-go cooking at parks or beaches.
Organized for Efficiency
A well-organized outdoor kitchen sets the stage for stress-free cooking and entertaining. Use storage bins and shelves to keep must-haves like spices, oils, and cleaning supplies in easy reach. Think versatility with items that can serve multiple purposes, like a rolling cart that doubles as a prep space and serving station.
Dining Al Fresco
Make sure you have ample seating for outdoor dining. Whether you opt for a full dining set or a collection of mix-and-match options, comfort is key. Plush cushions and textiles in outdoor-friendly fabrics can turn a casual meal into an alfresco experience your guests won’t want to end.
Personal Touches
Incorporate personal touches that make your home uniquely yours, such as custom monogrammed linens or family photos in weatherproof frames. For a patriotic nod to the holiday, arrange red, white, and blue accents throughout your home – but keep them stylish and modern to avoid a theme park look.
By considering these areas and implementing the suggested refreshments, your home will be fully prepped to handle the summertime festivities and provide a personal sanctuary that you can’t wait to show off to friends and family.
Remember, the spirit of summer is all about relaxation, so don’t stress about making everything perfect. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or having an intimate family cookout, the most important thing is to enjoy the season in the comfort of your updated personalized space. Now, go forth and bask in the glow of your beautifully transformed summer home.