10 fresh decorating ideas to do this summer
Photo, Virginie MacDonald
Summer home
Go for the green
In the summertime, remove heavy rugs and enjoy bare floors. Use greenery instead of flowers for a fresh yet casual feel.
Instant party
Summer entertaining means keeping it easy-breezy. Bunches of flowers in galvanized metal containers, hurricane lanterns and a full ice bucket are all you need.
Cottage feel
Create a cottagey entranceway with items that have a country feel; DIY artwork perfectly complements treasures like pitchers, bottles, sailboats and an old-school fan.
A sweet spot
If your backyard deck isn’t big enough for a table and chairs, move them onto the grass. Add a flower box to the fence to bring in a touch of colour and personality.
Brighten up your space
Whitewashed tongue-and-groove paneling gives this room a fresh, clean feel. Throw pillows in citrus shades add to the summery mood.
The perfect pair
White paired with wood looks fresh and clean – perfect for summer living. Add a throw pillow with a splash of colour and a bouquet of flowers for interest.
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Think nautical
Easy striped slipcovers and a striped flat-weave rug give this room a relaxed nautical feel. The quiet star of the room is a white paneled cabinet that provides an abundance of storage.
Breezy colour scheme
Pale blues and grays recall relaxed coastal décor. An ikat-patterned slipcover chair adds more interest to the room.
Set the mood
Take advantage of hot summer nights with overhead patio lanterns, and graphically printed napkins and placemats for outdoor dining.
Switch out dark for white
Get white slipcovers for summer. You can always bleach them, and they’ll double the lifespan of your sofa.
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