Ohhhh summer, how I’ve waited so longingly for you!

(My fellow Calgarians will be with me on that lol).

Summertime is all about embracing the outdoors and creating a space that reflects the carefree vibes of the season. From rustic cabins to coastal-inspired dwellings, infusing your living spaces with that warm, breezy feel we all crave during the summer months is the way to go.

So whether you’re lucky enough to have a charming cottage by the beach or just want to give your regular home a summery makeover, this blog is for you! I’m serving up some sun-sational tips on how to style your home for the season and make it the ultimate summer hangout spot.

Have a summer vacation home that needs an expert touch from afar? Check out MMID’s eDesign Service now!

Summer Home Styling Tips

Here are some of my fave tips for achieving the perfect summer look!

Pick Your Vibe

There are many gorgeous summer home aesthetics to choose from, but here are some of the most popular:

Coastal

Coastal style is all about light, airy spaces with lots of blues, whites, and sandy tones. Think of rattan or wicker furniture, marine-themed accessories, and an overall laid-back, breezy vibe. Seashells, driftwood, and nautical stripes are all welcome here.

Beach

If the sound of waves and the feel of sand under your feet make your heart sing, then the beach style is for you. Picture vibrant hues, tropical prints, and casual comfort. Add a splash of turquoise, scatter some tropical patterns, or hang a hammock in the corner, and suddenly everyday is beach day!

Boho

For those with a free-spirited, artistic soul, boho style can be an exciting playground. With its mix-and-match philosophy, boho style embraces bold colours, varied textures, and a sense of personal touch. Layer rugs, throw in some vibrant cushions, display eclectic art, or drape fairy lights for that boho summer magic.

Cottage

If you long for a simple, comfortable escape, give cottage style a go. It’s all about the charm of rustic simplicity with a palette of warm, earthy tones and a mix of vintage and modern pieces. Plump, comfortable furniture, distressed finishes, and floral or gingham prints can make your home feel like a cozy cottage in the countryside.

Get the style scoop on Cottagecore.

The Colours of Summer

Summer shades are all about warmth, vibrancy, and freshness!

Vibrant Shades

Think of the clear blue sky on a perfect summer day, the deep turquoise of the sea, and the radiant coral of a setting sunset. These shades inject instant energy and life into a space, making it feel dynamic and spirited.

Pastels

If the bold and the vibrant are not quite your style, worry not - summer has a soft side too! Think of the soft blush of a summer rose or the refreshing mint of a cool drink. Pastels bring a sense of calm, tranquility, and airy freshness, perfect for those who prefer a more understated, serene vibe.

Summer Materials

Choosing the right materials for your summer home decor is like picking the perfect outfit for a beach day - you’d want something light, breathable, and oh-so comfortable.

Cotton

What can beat the classic, right? Cotton is breathable, lightweight, and incredibly versatile. Whether it’s cotton slipcovers for your sofas or soft, billowy cotton curtains, this material brings a relaxed, cool feel to your home.

Linen

Linen is another star of summer. Its subtle texture and beautiful drape exudes an understated elegance. Linen throws or cushion covers can instantly add a touch of summer sophistication to your decor. Linen drapes are great for filtering light and if you to add some texture, color and pattern while still offering a light of natural light into your space.

Rattan

Moving beyond fabrics, let’s not forget materials like rattan that SCREAM summer. Rattan furniture or accessories add an organic, earthy feel to a space and create a gorgeous, resort-like ambience.

Summer Patterns

Listen, if colours are the soul of home decor, patterns are undoubtedly the heartbeat. They add rhythm, visual interest, and can even tell a story. A beautifully patterned cushion or a vibrant rug can take a room from “just nice” to “jaw-droppingly fabulous”.

Floral

Floral patterns, big or small, can bring a garden-fresh vibe right into your home. Imagine sipping your morning coffee on a floral-printed patio chair - bliss!

Nautical Stripes

Nothing says ‘beach house’ quite like blue and white nautical stripes. They’re simple, classy, and perpetually in style. Striped curtains, rugs, or even bed linen can inject that breezy, oceanside feeling.

Tropical Prints

If you’re feeling a bit adventurous (like your fave Hawaiian shirt), tropical prints with palm leaves, exotic birds, and vibrant blooms can turn any space into a summer paradise. A tropical print wallpaper or throw pillows can create a fun, vacation-like atmosphere.

Choosing Outdoor Furniture for Summer

When we’re talking summer home styling, we obviously can’t forget about outdoor spaces! After all, more sun means more fun outside!

Wood

If you love a natural, warm look, wooden furniture can be an excellent choice. Just make sure it’s treated for outdoor use to withstand the elements.

Metal

Looking for something sleek and sturdy? Metal, particularly aluminum, is durable, low-maintenance, and can give your outdoor space a modern edge.

Rattan

For that chic, resort-style vibe, you can’t beat rattan. It’s lightweight yet robust, and perfect for creating a relaxed, summery setting.

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Ok, super honesty time - quality outdoor furniture can be a bit of an investment. Therefore, in order to ensure that your pieces stay in tip top shape for many summers to come, there are some storage and weather considerations to keep in mind:

• Sun Protection: Look for furniture with UV protection or consider using patio umbrellas or shade sails to protect your pieces from harsh sunlight.

• Rainproof: If you live in an area that gets summer showers, make sure your outdoor furniture is water-resistant or consider weatherproof covers for protection.

• Storage: Have a plan for where you’ll store your outdoor furniture in case of severe weather or during off-season months. If space is a concern, opt for foldable or stackable pieces.

Best Places to Shop for Summer Home Decor

Great news! With the right stores, your dream summer home is just a shopping trip away.

Here are some of my go-to summer home decor hot spots:

HomeSense

The ultimate stop for affordable yet trendy home items. HomeSense’s extensive range caters to all styles and budgets. Remember to explore their seasonal section for fresh summer finds!

The Bay

Known for its quality and variety, you can find everything from luxury linens to stylish outdoor furniture at The Bay. Their diverse summer home decor section is always pretty impressive.

Honourable Mentions

• Ikea: Budget-friendly, minimalist decor

• West Elm & Pottery Barn: stylish, quality pieces

• Local thrift stores & online marketplaces: affordable, unique finds

Beach Please, Let’s Get Summer Styling!

As we wrap up, remember, this is your canvas to paint. Your home is a reflection of you, a showcase of your personal style and preferences. It’s about creating a space where you can relax, unwind, and make memories.

So this summer, be bold, be creative, and most importantly, be you. Experiment with different ideas, mix things up, and above all, have fun with it!

Here’s to a summer filled with sunny days, warm breezes, and a home that radiates your unique style!

If you need some help ‘making waves’ with your home decor this season, don’t sweat it! Contact me and I’ll throw you a stylish interior design buoy :)