Bring Summer to Your Home

By Elli Davis, August 2, 2011

Summer Fun by Wes Peck

Summer is officially here! I know this statement does not surprise you, but I want to emphasize that we should not limit enjoyment of the warmer weather to our lifestyle — we should try to bring summer to our homes, too. I can guarantee you that almost anyone will be happier and in a better mood living in a home that radiates summer. What can we do to bring a summer atmosphere to our homes, and how is it possible to have a home fully adjusted to this time of the year? The answer, as you might have suspected, is not simple. There are some steps we can take to help get started, however. Here are some of them!

At the risk of sounding too cliché, I would say that cleaning the windows is a good start. With a clear view, everything looks much nicer and brighter. Just think about it: is it not better to have the warm sun shining through clean windows at a table with a vase of fresh flowers? It is also better to look at your wonderful garden or pool through clean glass. Enjoy the view and open the windows for fresh air; it definitely helps to get you in the right summer mood.

Summer in the Garden

Backyard by Chun Kit To

Get your backyard ready for use! Ensure that it is prepared for sunbathing, swimming (if you have a pool), or fantastic barbecue parties with a group of friends. It feels like such a waste to spend time indoors when the weather is so beautiful. Try to be aware of your yard and do everything possible to make yourself, your family, and your guests comfortable in your garden. After ensuring a clean table and seating, bring out some cushions. Take care of the plants you have and decorate a little bit. The result is truly amazing — unlike dull, boring backyards that seem to be almost completely neglected by their owners.

It is up to you to decide what happens with your backyard. If you are a fan of barbecue parties and eating outside, then the outside decor will lean this way. Make sure the seating and the table are comfortable and attractive, purchase appropriate plates and cutlery (use ones specifically made for use outdoors, or a secondary set), and do not forget to install some lights outside. There are many two-in-one lamps nowadays; they offer soft light and also protect you from mosquitoes and other bugs. If you are not a big fan of barbecues and you would rather set up your yard for your children to have fun, it is best have things such as a little sandbox, a little pool, colourful plastic chairs, glasses, and plates. There is a wide range of possibilities; you really can do anything you like with your backyard. These are just two typical examples.

Bring Sun Inside

Let us get back to the interior of your home. Use happy pastel colours — darker colours can seem a little depressing. White, bright yellow, light green, and light blue work well, though the choice is yours and you may want darker colours. Do not forget to add some seasonal scents (there are plenty to choose from nowadays) and festive items as well. This rule goes for any season and any type of decorating. During the summer, a nice fruit bowl (using seasonal fruit, of course), fresh flowers, or something you brought from your holiday by the sea (some seashells can be bought in many stores, too) can do a wonderful job. Simply put: try to make the interior look as lively as possible.

Sweet Apples by Poppy Thomas Hill

To really feel summer everywhere, you can store your regular shampoos, shower gels, and creams away for a while. Summer definitely calls for some fresh, new scents! While I absolutely love almond and vanilla scents, I am trying not to use them during the warmest period of the year, as they might be a little too heavy. Citrus or fruit scents, on the other hand, are just perfect!

The last piece of advice is more related to you as a person than to your home, but it has a lot to do with summer and a summer mood. Fresh fruit is not just for decorating your home — I believe you should also eat more of fruit and vegetables to help feel refreshed during hot days. Drinking plenty of water (yes, water — definitely no over-sweetened soda) will help to refresh you as well. Have fun and enjoy the summer atmosphere!

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