(collaborative post)
As we head towards the British summertime and the weather is starting to improve, it’s clear that thoughts are turning towards long days spent enjoying the sunshine and the joy of spending time outdoors. But before you get swept away by visions of blooming borders and sizzling barbeques, it’s worth thinking about how to prepare your home for summer too.
During the dark and often miserable winter months, homes and gardens can often feel unloved and lack the proper care and attention to make them look their best. Now is the perfect time to give your home an overhaul so it’s perfectly prepared for the summer to come. In this article, we’ll look at five ways to transform your space so you are ready to embrace the longer, warmer days on the horizon.
Clear out what you no longer need
Summer is a time for fresh starts, and that applies to your home as well. Instead of tackling jobs over a period of days or weeks, you could dedicate a weekend to decluttering and tidying. This doesn’t have to be a daunting task, and you can easily break it down room by room.
Charity shops are always in need of good quality items, and online selling platforms like Depop or Vinted make it easy to offload unwanted clothes and accessories. Consider donating books you’ve already read to local libraries or swap them with friends.
But remember, some things may not be useful to you now in the summer, but when the winter rolls around you may regret getting rid of things you now need once more. So if you can, try and store certain things away in a cupboard or loft, just in case!
Top Tip: Embrace the ‘KonMari’ method. Ask yourself if each item sparks joy. If not, thank it for its service and let it go. This not only declutters your physical space but can also feel mentally liberating.
Add seasonal furnishings and materials
Now that you’ve cleared the decks, it’s time to introduce some summery touches. Swap out heavy winter throws for lightweight cotton blankets. Replace dark throws with light and airy linen cushions in calming tones like pale blue or pistachio green. Consider replacing thick curtains with sheer voiles to let in the sunshine and create a breezy feel.
Natural fibres like jute and rattan are perfect for summer, adding a touch of texture and an organic feel. Introduce a woven jute rug or a rattan side table to create a relaxed, coastal vibe.
Freshen up your home’s exterior
Don’t neglect the outside of your house, as this can help to brighten up your day every time you return home in the summer sun after a hard day at work. Give your front door a fresh lick of paint in a cheerful summer colour. A vibrant yellow or a rich turquoise can add a real pop and instantly improve your home’s curb appeal. If you have time, consider power-washing your patio or driveway to remove winter grime or moss.
Top Tip: Climbing plants like roses or honeysuckle can add a touch of fragrance and colour to your exterior walls. Just be sure to choose a variety suited to your climate and brickwork.
Revamp your garden
No summer home is complete without a thriving garden. Give your outdoor space some TLC by giving it a good tidy-up. Remove any dead leaves or debris left over from winter. Trim back overgrown bushes and prune plants to encourage new growth. Invest in some colourful summer bedding plants like petunias, geraniums or marigolds to add a burst of colour.
For those who love summer soirées, consider creating a dedicated entertaining space in your garden. A fire pit with comfortable seating is a great focal point for evening gatherings. String festoon lighting around the garden to create a magical atmosphere in the evenings. If you’re short on space, a bistro set on a small patio area can be the perfect spot to enjoy a lazy afternoon with friends.
Summer is all about spending time outside. Make the most of the longer days by blurring the lines between your indoor and outdoor spaces. Invest in comfortable outdoor furniture like loungers or a hammock. French doors that open up onto a patio create a seamless flow between your home and the garden.
Incorporate bright colours in your home
Another great way to prepare your home for summer is changing to summer colours. Summer is a time for bold statements, and adding pops of colour is a fantastic way to create a vibrant and joyful atmosphere inside your home. Consider accent walls or introduce colour through artwork, statement lamps, or brightly coloured scatter cushions.
By following these simple tips, you can transform your home and garden into a haven for summer living. So, embrace the sunshine and get set for a season of fun, laughter, and relaxation.
This post was published in collaboration with a content partner. The article is meant to inspire you how to live a slow, simple, soulful and sustainable lifestyle and may contain (affiliate) links to articles, websites or products/services that may be of interest to you.
Would you like to receive inspiration from The Slow Living Guide regularly?
Sign up for the newsletter here.
