Serena Every time summer rolls around, I feel like my home needs a little breath of fresh air.
The days are longer, the weather is warmer, and I just want to shake off the heaviness of winter.
The idea of a summer makeover used to feel overwhelming—like I had to completely change everything.
But what I’ve realized is that it’s really the little things that make all the difference.
So, if you’re looking to give your home a quick refresh without the hassle, I’ve got some simple ideas that will make your space feel like a perfect summer retreat.
Let’s dive in!
Switch Up Your Bedding for Lighter, Breezier Fabrics
One of the easiest ways to make your bedroom feel like summer is by swapping out your heavy bedding for something lighter and cooler.
I love using cotton or linen sheets in soft whites, light blues, and gentle pastels.
These fabrics feel airy and keep you cooler at night—perfect for those warm summer evenings.
Bring the Outdoors In with Some Fresh Plant
Adding a bit of greenery to your space instantly makes it feel more alive and fresh.
I added a few small potted plants on my windowsills and countertops, and it makes the whole room feel so much more relaxed and vibrant.
Swap Your Curtains for Sheer, Light Drapes
Heavy curtains can feel a bit suffocating in the summer, so I swapped mine out for sheer, light-colored drapes. They let in the sunlight and give the room a soft, airy feel.
Change Up Your Lighting for a Warm, Soft Glow
Summer evenings are all about soft, cozy lighting.
The soft lighting instantly creates a calm, relaxed atmosphere, and makes everything feel cozier as the sun sets.
Add a Splash of Color with Bright, Fun Throw Pillows
Throw pillows are such an easy way to bring color and life to your space.
I added a few bright, tropical prints and pastel-colored pillows to my couch and bed, and it instantly made the room feel more summery.
Incorporate Coastal Vibes
Summer is the perfect time to bring in coastal decor—think woven rattan, seagrass, and jute.
I added a jute rug, a rattan tray, and some woven baskets around the house. These natural textures instantly bring that laid-back, beachy vibe to the room without being overwhelming.
Swap Out Darker Decor for Lighter, Fresher Pieces
I tend to gravitate toward darker tones in the cooler months, but for summer, I swapped those out for lighter furniture, white walls, and neutral-toned decor.
The space instantly feels brighter and more open. It’s all about embracing the light, carefree feeling of summer.
Create a Summer Reading Nook
There’s nothing quite like reading a book in a cozy nook on a summer afternoon. I created a reading corner by adding a comfy chair, a soft blanket, and a small side table with a lamp.
It’s my new favorite spot to relax, especially with a cold drink in hand.
Refresh Your Walls with Vibrant Art Prints
Summer is all about color, so I swapped out my muted artwork for vibrant prints.
Whether it’s a tropical print, floral art, or an abstract piece, bringing in a pop of color on the walls immediately brightens up the room and gives it a fun, relaxed feel.
Add Some Outdoor Elements to Your Living Room
Bringing the outdoors inside is a perfect way to embrace summer.
I added outdoor cushions, patio chairs, and woven baskets to my living room. These simple elements make the space feel like a cozy summer retreat.
Update Your Rugs with Lighter, More Natural Materials
Winter rugs can feel heavy and dense, so I swapped mine out for jute or woven rugs.
These materials add texture and warmth to your space while keeping things light and breezy. They’re perfect for adding that summery, beachy vibe without feeling too formal.
Incorporate Summer Scents with Candles and Diffusers
Nothing says “summer” like fresh, light scents. I love burning citrus-scented candles or using a diffuser with eucalyptus or lavender oil. The fresh scents immediately make the space feel more open and inviting, especially when the weather’s warm.
Create a Casual Summer Bar Cart
I love having a summer bar cart in the living room or dining area.
I set it up with all my favorite drinks, glassware, and a few cute decor pieces like lemon wedges or fresh herbs for cocktails. It adds that fun, vacation feel to my space, even if I’m just at home.
Add Soft, Fluffy Towels to the Bathroom
I updated my bathroom by swapping out my heavy winter towels for fluffy, soft white towels. These make the space feel spa-like and fresh, and they’re perfect for drying off after a dip in the pool or a relaxing shower.
Set the Mood with Soft, Cozy Throws
Even though the weather is warmer, there are still those cool summer nights where you want a soft throw to snuggle up with. I swapped my heavier blankets for light cotton throws in soft colors like pastels or neutrals.
It’s the perfect way to stay comfy while keeping the room summer-ready.
Install a Tension Rod for Extra Storage
If you’re low on closet space, a tension rod in an empty corner of your room is a genius way to store clothes or accessories. It’s simple to install and can hold anything from scarves to hats to coats.
Use Decorative Trays to Stay Organized
Decorative trays are a great way to organize small items while still keeping things stylish.
I love placing them on my coffee table to hold books, candles, or vases of flowers. It helps keep everything neat while also adding a chic touch to my space.
Embrace Minimalism with Clean Lines
Summer is the perfect time to embrace minimalism and declutter your space. I’ve started simplifying my decor by choosing fewer items but focusing on quality and function.
It feels so much calmer and more relaxed, perfect for the slower pace of summer.
Set Up a Cozy Outdoor Lounge Area
If you’ve got a patio or balcony, make it your own little outdoor lounge. Add some comfy cushions, soft throws, and string lights to create a cozy, intimate setting. It’s a great place to unwind during those warm summer evenings.
Add a Statement Mirror to Reflect Light
A large, decorative mirror is a great way to reflect light around your room and make it feel bigger and brighter. I added one to my living room, and it instantly made the space feel lighter. Plus, it’s a stylish addition to any room!
Enjoy a Relaxed, Breezy Summer at Home
Summer is all about feeling light, free, and relaxed, and there’s no reason your home can’t match that vibe.
It doesn’t take a big transformation—just a few small changes can make your space feel like the ultimate summer retreat.
Whether it’s swapping out bedding, bringing in some plants, or just adding a few colorful accents, these little updates can bring in all the warmth and joy of the season.
So go ahead, embrace the sunshine, and let your home reflect that easygoing summer energy.
After all, your space should be just as inviting and refreshing as the season itself.
Here’s to a summer at home that feels every bit as good as it looks!
