June has arrived, and we’re opening the windows and letting a warm breeze breathe life into our homes. Ready to prepare your home for summer? We’ve got a few tips!
Mix Neutrals & Bright Colors in Lightweight Fabrics
Photo by Tara Striano
Linen slipcovers in soft whites always make us think “beach house,” and we love the way designer Bennett Leifer added color with summery striped cushions.
Bennett’s tip: “I develop the palettes [for each room in a house] at the same time, making sure there is a consistency in color and texture. I then take each space in a slightly different direction to reflect how the space will be used. For example, the dining room received colorful Missoni print dining chair cushions, reflecting the fresh flowers and foods that would eventually be displayed on the dining table and kitchen counters.”
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Brighten a Dark Room with Sheer Drapes
Photo via Architectural Digest
With silk damask walls and an antique Oushak carpet, the living room in this Italian apartment is full of dark, serious decor. The sheer, billowing linen curtains let sunshine pour through the room and allow a generous view of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
For your home, try putting your heavy drapes away for the season, and welcome the summer sun with a lightweight sheer replacement.
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Reduce Clutter with Minimal Accessories
Photo via Style Me Pretty Living
We love accessories as much as the next interior design junkie, but a relaxed summer room should feel easy and laid-back. Clear clutter from your room – and your mind – and try a neutral palette for a living room that’s just begging to be napped in.
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Go Low-Maintenace with Indoor/Outdoor Fabrics
Photo by Sean Dagen
As the sun gets stronger and the kids start traipsing in with wet bathing suits, your home needs a little extra durability. Indoor/outdoor fabrics have come a long way in recent years – no more stiff, scratchy textiles – and they’re a great way to protect your favorite decor items from fading and mildew.
In this kids’ bedroom, designer Cecily Mendell boldly used a variety of patterns. “I love to mix and match fabrics that you wouldn’t typically see together,” Cecily told us. “The trick is making sure they complement each other – the colors don’t have to all match. Be brave and experiment – your eye will tell you if they work.”
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Related Articles:
 4 Quick Ways to Update Your Home’s Decor for Summer |
 Bring the Sunshine In with Canary Yellow |
 Fun Ways to Update Your Home Decor |
 Prepare Your Home for Summer |
