We’re still a month out from the official start of summer, but for many of us, the end of school and brighter, longer days mean the sunshine season is already here—at least in spirit. It’s also a great time to give your home a seasonal boost as well. We’ve got some ways to make your home feel brighter and lighter so you can start enjoying the summer fun—no matter what the calendar says.
1. bedding refresh
Put away the extra blankets and flannel sheets, and bring out breathable cotton or linen bedding. It’s a practical switch, but it’s also a simple way to give your bedroom a fresh look. Beat the summer heat with a cooling blanket paired with a light quilt or comforter. Crisp white bedding works for any season, but you can also opt for summer patterns or bright cheerful hues like coral and turquoise. Don’t forget your guest bedrooms either. Summertime means kids will be home from college, family will be visiting and other overnight guests popping in. Freshening the bedding means you’re prepared for whoever visits.
2. swap out textiles
Your bed isn’t the only place where your linens could use a summer refresh. A change in season is a great opportunity to swap out the towels in both your primary and guest bathrooms. It’s also the perfect time to put away heavy throws and bring out light-weight blankets in light or bright colors. Bring in throw pillows that match or add a pop summer fun with seasonal designs like florals, tropical motifs or nautical-inspired designs. In the dining room, you can also swap out your table cloth and place settings for ones that offer some summer flare.
3. lighten and brighten
Want to make your home feel brighter and bigger? The solution is simple: Mirrors. A strategically placed floor or wall mirror can do a lot, especially when across from a window. It reflects natural light throughout the room, creates the illusion of extra space and can even add a beautiful focal point—if your outdoor views are worth looking at. Also consider adding a mirror to your outdoor spaces. A mounted mirror can transform your patio by breaking up a boring wall and reflecting back views of your yard, garden or pool.
4. light the night
Your back patio and other outdoor spaces are going to see a lot of use this time of year. An easy way to add some evening ambience is to upgrade your outdoor lighting—bonus, it’s also a practical way to target tripping hazards like steps or paths. By mixing fairy lights, lanterns, votives, stake lighting and other options, you can create layers of light. The result is a more magical place to entertain guests or take in the night air on your own. While you may not be worried about warmth, a fire pit also can be a great addition, whether you’re making s’mores or just enjoying the laidback vibes.
5. brighten up your entry
Welcome guests by giving your home’s entry points some attention. Outdoors, this can mean adding a cheerful seasonal wreath to the door, placing a new colorful doormat and adding potted plants—all easy ways to boost your home’s curb appeal quickly and without breaking the bank. If you want to make a bigger change, consider painting your front door a bright color. Red, teal and yellow all make a bold statement while capturing the spirit of summer. Inside, adding fresh seasonal flowers, plants or fruit to a console table is an easy way to add some summer sparkle and color to your entryway.