Summer, Refined: Elevated Updates for a Well-Designed Home
/Summer is here, and with it, a sense of shifting towards lighter fabrics, warm textures, and of course, florals. Each year brings something new and special, and we love to consider how we can give homes a refresh that feels current, while still being timeless. It’s not about chasing the latest and greatest; it’s about finding ways to uplift your space.
If you’re feeling like it’s time for a change, let this list guide you into the warmer seasons with style.
Swap in Lighter Materials & Textures
Take a deep breath, because summer calls for the removal of all heaviness. No more wool, velvet, or boucle. Instead, it’s all about light materials like linen, cotton, and silk. This might mean investing in some new bedsheets, swapping out your upholstery, or buying new table linens. When it comes to furniture and accessories, we recommend everything rattan, from lampshades to placemats. Wicker furniture, of course, continues to hold its place both indoors and out. And, natural rugs are in! Jute, seagrass, and other woven rugs are hardwearing and give interiors that fresh, organic feel.
Lean into Sun-Washed Tones
The past few years have been all about white and gray, but this season’s palette is taking a turn with more warm hues. Caramel and ochre are in, bringing with them a sense of groundedness and optimism. These hues can be layered into existing interiors, whether with a fresh coat of paint or new pillows for your sofa. Adding pops of terracotta, whether as planter pots, tiles, or accessories, is yet another way to bring earthy warmth into your space.
Swap Out Cool for Warm Metals
In the same vein, warm metals are replacing cool chrome and stainless steel. Updating your hardware at home with patina brass, bronze, and copper finishes is a great way to refresh the look and feel of furniture and cabinetry without having to do a major overhaul. These warmer metals provide more of a lived-in look that recalls vintage designs and old-world charm.
Add Romantic Trims
Romance is everywhere lately in the world of interior design. Decorative trims in particular have had a comeback, and we’ve seen them across everything from lampshades to trays, upholstery, and textiles. From feminine and fresh ruffles to beaded pillows and embroidered napkins, these extra adornments add just a touch of whimsy to your everyday decor.
Refresh Window Treatments
Whimsy is even extending to the windows this summer with more-is-more treatments. Rather than boring blinds, sheer linens and gathered drapes are an elevated choice. Fabrics with ditsy florals and delicate paisley patterns provide an upgraded look that will make you smile. Structure is giving way to softness, and this is exactly what the seasons of summer and summer are about.
Create Foraged Arrangements
When it comes to floral arrangements, it’s all about a more foraged, slightly undone look this summer. Rather than worrying about perfect heights and symmetry, pull together seasonal arrangements with wildflowers and fresh greenery. Let this effortless aesthetic extend to your vase, with a ceramic jug, a colorful glass pitcher, or a French urn that recalls the essence of Provence.
As the world changes its tune to the sound of birdsong and sunshine, we’re incorporating more lightness into our interior projects. We hope you will also enjoy leaning into this time of renewal. For more design inspiration, please check out our recent blog posts, and do reach out if you would like to book a consultation with us.
