Decor Swaps to Instantly Cool Down Your Home This Summer
When summer hits, we start looking for ways to stay cool—not just with our ACs and fans, but in how our homes feel. Making a few simple decor swaps can transform a space from cozy winter warmth to cool summer breeziness. Here are some easy tips to help you create a lighter, fresher vibe that’s perfect for the season!
If you’re still sporting those heavy blackout curtains from winter, it’s time for a swap. Sheer or light linen curtains let more natural light in while adding an airy softness to any room. Sheers not only lighten up the look of your space, but they also make it feel larger and more open. Bonus: with lighter curtains, you’ll still get that sunlight glow, without the intense heat!
Swap Out Heavy Rugs for Natural Fibers
Thick, plush rugs are perfect for keeping you cozy in cooler months, but in the summer, they can feel heavy and even trap heat. Consider rolling up your wool or shag rugs and opting for something lighter, like a jute or sisal rug. Natural fiber rugs look relaxed, cool, and are great for high-traffic areas. Their textured, earthy vibe is also ideal for summer style.
Choose Breezy Fabrics
Summer decor is all about breathable materials, so think about swapping out thick throw blankets and velvet pillows for lighter fabrics like cotton or linen. Look for neutral or pastel-colored covers to make your space feel bright and fresh. And while you’re at it, switch your bedsheets to something cool and crisp—cotton, bamboo, or linen are great choices for a comfortable night’s sleep in the warmer months.
Bring in Rattan and Wicker Accents
Nothing says summer quite like rattan and wicker. Whether it’s a stylish side table, a comfy accent chair, or even a few woven baskets, these natural materials bring in a relaxed, tropical vibe. They’re lightweight, easy to move around, and they instantly make any space feel airy and cool. You can go big with a rattan chair or keep it simple with a small basket or plant holder.
Maximize Greenery for a Fresh, Cool Vibe
Houseplants are your best friend for creating a refreshing, cool atmosphere. Plants like snake plants, spider plants, or even hanging ivy add a pop of green and help purify the air—making your home feel fresher. You can display plants in simple ceramic pots or woven baskets for a natural touch. And if you’re worried about upkeep, there are plenty of low-maintenance plants that thrive with minimal effort.
Swap Out Heavy Accessories
Consider swapping out dark, heavy decor items like dark wood accents or metal sculptures for lighter options. Think glass vases, ceramic bowls, or driftwood pieces that reflect light and create a summery, beachy feel. This also goes for wall art—try swapping out any dark paintings for something lighter, like pastel landscapes or botanical prints.
Opt for Light and Airy Furniture
If your furniture feels too bulky for summer, consider rearranging or temporarily swapping out pieces. Replace large, dark armchairs with lightweight, open-frame chairs in wood or metal, and switch to a lighter coffee table if possible. By choosing pieces that feel lighter and less imposing, you’ll open up your space and make it feel more spacious and breezier.
Embrace a Light Color Palette
Color has a powerful effect on the way we feel in our space, and summer is the perfect time to lighten things up. Embrace shades like soft white, pale blue, light gray, and sage green. These colors reflect light and make rooms feel cooler and more serene. Try adding light-colored throw pillows, artwork, or decorative accents to give your space that summer-ready refresh.
Get Creative with Mirrors
Mirrors aren’t just great for making a room look bigger—they also help bounce light around, adding brightness and an airy feel. Consider adding a decorative mirror in a space that doesn’t get much natural light, like a hallway or corner. It’ll make your room feel larger and reflect that summer sun for a natural cooling effect.
Final Thoughts
These easy swaps will have your home feeling cool and calm, ready for those summer days ahead. Lightening up your decor doesn’t just keep your space visually cooler; it helps create a fresh, comfortable vibe that you’ll enjoy all season long. So, open those windows, let in the breeze, and embrace the lighter side of decor. Summer has arrived, and your home is ready for it!