We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.
Whatever the weather, these bright ideas will tempt sunshine into your home.
The great British summer can sadly never be fully relied on to deliver the goods, but even when it's unpredictable outdoors, you can welcome the season inside your home by making a few simple changes. Read on to discover simple swaps you can make to celebrate the seasonal shift. They are sure to put a spring in your step, even on days when wet weather prevails...
Natural light can appear to 'open up' rooms and make them feel larger and airier, so it’s important to maximise the amount that comes into your space. In summer, make the most of windows by leaving them uncovered (ideal if you’re not overlooked) or with a compact dressing, such as a roller blind, that can be fully opened or closed as desired. Head to DFS for a wonderful selection of summery-coloured sofas and armchairs, including our very own plush velvet Darcy sofa (pictured here in Aqua).
Prints and patterns inspired by nature can have a transformative effect in a space, enriching its look and making it feel fresh. Beautiful florals are just the thing to bring a sense of a garden in full bloom into your home. Echo the feel and brighten up surfaces and corners with lots of bud vases.
With rounded silhouettes, these beautiful ceramic bud vases feature delicate floral patterns. Fill with offcuts from the garden.
Tablecloths and napkins can have an unexpected impact in a kitchen or dining room, especially one that is otherwise neutral. For summery vibes, stripes will bring an elegant look that still feels reminiscent of seaside cheer, or simply opt for a bright sunshine yellow linen for an instant lift.
Whether entertaining or dining solo, a new set of plates or bowls will instantly upgrade your tablescape. If you’re in the market for a freshen up, buy pieces that will work just as well inside as they will alfresco. Rose and Grey's collection features lots of bright, summery options.
We're also quite fond of these grapefruit patterned bowls from eclectic homeware brand Rockett St George – it's guaranteed to make you smile, whatever the weather.
Whether you’re lucky enough to be blessed with a garden, or simply have a petite balcony or terrace, opening windows and doors to these outside spaces on warmer days will energise your home and create a flow between outside and in. Fresh air has been shown to increase focus, making a well-ventilated WFH space a summer essential. If you need extra privacy, reeded glass film from somewhere like Purlfrost is the affordable way forward.
An invigorating drink prepared with seasonal ingredients is always welcome, and the way it's presented can make it taste all the better. To elevate sundowners, choose glasses that look as delicious as the drink itself – light stemware with ribbed or fluted detailing is smart whatever beverage is inside, opt for patterns and jewel tones for a playful touch (like these colourful diamond design glasses from Wayfair) or choose pretty pale tinted sets for hydrating homemade sodas.
For dinner parties, serve up fancy cocktails in these statement coupe glasses which feature a fluted bowl, green bobble stem and a 70s-style tinted orange base.
Warm weather calls for lighter, crisper scents, with uplifting citrus, refreshing sea salt and gently sparkling floral aromas instantly evoking the sun. Sustainable Cornwall-based brand St Eval's have many beautiful fragrances inspired by summer scents, such as rhubarb.
Houseplants bring life into a space and are especially impactful when lots of greenery is displayed at different heights. For a summery look and tropical feel, try hanging planters with long trailing leaves from hooks, and placing sprawling palms in oversized baskets on the floor. Habitat is our go to for affordable faux foliage without the faff, as well as striking planters, including hanging baskets.
One of our all-time favourite plants is the Monstera deliciosa, otherwise known as the Swiss Cheese Plant. Create a jungle-inspired haven with very little care; this is a great low maintenance option for new plant parents.
With its long and brighter days, summer isn’t the most obvious time to think about lighting. But by swapping out shades in darker colours and thicker textures and replacing them with bright linen, cotton, and natural raffia options, your space will benefit from an instant seasonal shift.
This striped lampshade from Amsterdam-based lifestyle brand Anna + Nina has caught our eye. From the contemporary stripes to the gold foil lining, it's the perfect accessory for a seasonal update.
Artwork can help to establish a room's visual identity, but there's no reason not to mix it up as the seasons change. Retailers including Desenio sell pieces in standardised sizes, meaning framed prints can be swapped around easily to suit the time of year (and your mood). For the brighter months, a tropical scene will transport your walls to sunnier climes.
Breathable fabrics like cotton, linen and hemp are ideal for keeping cool in summer, so with warm nights on the horizon swap your bedding to sheets that will ensure you have a revitalising sleep. Remove heavier throws and layers of plush cushions, stripping back to basics for a cooler, crisper effect.
Long-lasting and ultra soft, Bedfolk's linen bedding is woven from the highest quality Belgian and French flax, so you know you're in good hands.
In the mood for a splash of colour? Take your cues from the likes of Santorini and Mykonos and combine watery shades of blue with crisp white and sunshine yellow for a look that immediately says summer.
What is the high-low styling trend?
Frillmaxxing is the easiest way to make your home feel warmer & more luxe
The pastel trend Sophie Robinson says makes every room feel calmer
Why cerulean is interior's most underrated colour
