Summer Switch-Up Interior Design Ideas

As the days get longer and the temperature rises, the need to change our interior environment also increases. We turn from wool and heavy upholstery, to cotton and linen. Dark, muted colors become bright and bold. As our lifestyles change with the season, so should our homes. There are a variety of ways to switch-up your home, but we'll start with the simple basics.

Windows are a good place to start, and can also be an economical consideration. With summer energy bills soaring, you will want to consider blocking out light as well as letting it in. For functional purposes, purchase "black out" shades or curtains (I like the roller blinds for summer use), and install them in as many rooms as you feel necessary. I mostly put them in rooms that are not used during the day so that I block out the hot sun from the room, this will decrease the amount of energy you need to use to cool your home. In rooms that are used the most, I remove the heavy drapes that blocked out the winter chill, and opt for light sheers to let in the light, but provide privacy. By letting in bright sunlight, I decrease the need to use ceiling lights during the day, which helps with energy cost as well. I prefer white or cream colors for my sheers, but light blues or bold stripe patterns can be a great deal of fun, and add oomph to a space.

Wall décor is usually easy to change, and won't bust your budget either. Replace the stuffy Christmas photos with pictures of last summer's beach trip using the same frames. This way you don't create extra holes in your walls, and the only out of pocket cost is blowing up some favorite memories. The same is true with art pieces, change out heavier pieces for bright light hearted or bold images. These options add summer pizzazz to your space without the need to repaint a room (which is never necessary or recommended from season to season).

The most expensive things to change in a home would be the furnishings, so instead use slipcovers made of cotton or linen. Depending on your style, you can use solid or patterned, bright colors or soft neutral covers. I usually pick up my color in inexpensive throw pillows with various patterns that I mix and match. Another consideration is the arrangement of the furnishings. Try to create an open and inviting environment instead of a close and cozy one.

Accessories can create a lot of interest, and can be as pricey, or economical as you like. I tend to simplify shapes, and make smaller groupings (I prefer groupings of 3). Sea shapes and themes seem to be popular, but I like colorful objects and a more youthful feeling. It reminds me of being a kid, and encourages me to get active during the summer. Fresh flowers that are summer favorites for me are Birds of Paradise, Sunflowers, and local wild flowers. Candles should have fresh scents, and simple shapes. Accessorizing can be one of the highlights of decorating, as it distinguishes your style from everyone else's.

For neat summer ideas, look at Pottery Barn or at CB2 for inspiration.

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