Posted Jun 21, 2023
Summer is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to get your home ready for the warm weather ahead.
Whether you’re looking to spruce up your decor, prepare your outdoor space for entertaining, or simply make your home more comfortable and inviting during the warmer months.
This guide covers plenty of easy ways to get your home summer-ready.
Exterior
Photo of show apartment in Leaside Lock, Bromley-by-Bow.
Summer is synonymous with outdoor fun - lounging in your garden, hosting barbecues for friends, or simply enjoying a good book under the warmth of the sun. So it’s important to make sure your outdoor spaces, whether a patio, balcony or garden, are in their prime condition.
Clean your windows and doors
One of the easiest ways to get your home ready for the summer is to clean your windows and doors. This will help to let in more natural light and fresh air, making your home feel brighter and more spacious.
Use a simple solution of warm water and white vinegar to clean your windows and wipe down your door frames and handles as well.
Upgrade your outdoor lighting
Summer nights can be magical, so why not enhance your outdoor space with some strategic lighting? You could install solar-powered lights along the pathway or wrap fairy lights around trees or across patios.
A well-lit outdoor environment extends the time you can spend outside on those warm summer evenings.
Refresh your outdoor space
Assess any winter damage to plants and grass and replace them if necessary.
Pressure wash patios, decks, and driveways to remove accumulated grime from winter rains. Spruce up your outdoor furniture by giving it a fresh coat of paint or polish.
Install shading options like umbrellas or gazebos to provide some relief from the direct sun.
Consider adding some potted plants or outdoor lighting to create a homely atmosphere.
Clean your gutters
We know no one wants to think about the winter during the summer. This can be the perfect time to clear out any debris from your gutters while it’s dry, to help prevent any unwanted storm damage when the season changes.
Interior
Photo of show apartment in Points Cross, Leeds.
Summer is the perfect time to refresh your living space and create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere to reflect the season.
Whether you’re looking to create a cool retreat from the heat or host guests for a summer party, updating your interior by incorporating cheerful colours, much needed cooling solutions and lighter furnishings can really bring a home together.
Swap out heavy curtains and bedding
Thick curtains can make your home feel stuffy and hot during the summer months. Instead, swap them out for lighter, breezier fabrics like cotton or linen. These fabrics also make great replacements for your heavy winter bedding as they are lighter and breathable. This will help to keep your home cool and comfortable.
Bring the outdoors in
Bringing some greenery into your home is a great way to add a touch of nature and create a fresh, summery feel.
Consider adding some indoor plants or fresh flowers to your living areas, or even creating a small herb garden in your kitchen. Not only will this help to purify the air in your home, but it will also add a pop of colour and fragrance to your space.
Invest in a fan or air conditioning unit
If you’re looking to keep your home cool during the summer months, it may be time to consider investing in a fan or air conditioning unit.
A ceiling fan can help to circulate air and keep your home feeling fresh, while a desk air conditioning unit can help cool down a hot and humid home office space.
Lighten up your colour scheme
Swap out heavy, dark fabrics and furnishings for lighter, brighter options in more neutral shades like white and cream or colourful pastels.
Consider rearranging your furniture to take advantage of natural light sources in your home.
Decorate with summer-inspired accents
Shift away from cosy winter aesthetics towards something brighter and lighter to reflect the season.
Swap out your scatter pillows and throws for summery options in fun patterns.
If you're by the coast, like at our August Fields development in Newhaven, incorporate beachy accents like seashells, driftwood, or coral into your decor for a coastal-inspired look or weave natural textures like wicker, rattan and bamboo into your home accessories.