Decorating & Design
June 13, 2023
Emma Reddington Shares Simple Swaps To Make Your Home Feel Like Summer
As Canadians, we know how to dress for all types of weather. In the winter months, we stack on the layers to protect ourselves from snow, sleet and wind and when summer rolls around, we’re just as adept at keeping ourselves cool and collected. Your home deserves the same attention. The arrival of warm weather means it’s time to take a look around your house and shed a few of the bulky, cozy layers to make way for effortless, breezy style. Here are 10 simple swap ins (or outs) to make your space feel summer-ready.
Feel free to expose stone or wood floors by packing away your area rugs for a few months. The cool stone beneath your feet will act like a mini air-conditioner.
If you haven’t already packed away your winter coats, boots and accessories now is the time! Dig your straw hats, picnic blankets and beach towels out of storage and place them at hand. If your space allows, add a few hooks or a skinny bench by the front door to show off some of these accessories.
Strip away throw blankets and all but a couple of throw pillows. A more minimal look with less clutter suits the simplicity of summer. If you think you’ll miss these items, consider swapping in lighter throw blankets or pillows in cotton and linen.
Having a second set of hallway runners on hand can really change the mood of transitional spaces like corridors. While darker jewel-toned Persian-style rugs look warm and cozy during colder months, lighter pastel shades are a breath of fresh air come summer.
Striped hamman towels bring some beachside charm to this neutral bathroom in downtown Toronto. Put away your heavy terrycloth towels and bathmat until Autumn.
Slipcovers are a great idea for chairs of all kinds. Have a set made from a light-colored linen to instantly transform a dining or living room. They’re also a great way to extend the life of your furniture.
In the laundry room or mudroom, an indoor-outdoor area rug and a stack of beach towels will have you ready for wet kids and pets coming in from outside.
Make your guests feel comfortable with crisp white bedding. This set edged in icy blue trim looks cool and refreshing.
Take advantage of your garden or local farmer’s markets and bring the outdoors in. Fresh cut flowers and greenery can instantly make a home feel alive and welcoming.
A nautical inspired rope table lamp and lantern lend a beachy feel to a hallway vignette and can be deftly swapped in once the weather becomes warmer. Take a look at your accessories throughout your house and see what little changes could make a big difference.