Feeling like your home could use a little sunshine? Summer is the perfect excuse to refresh your space with light, color, and breezy vibes. Whether you’re in a cozy apartment or a full house, these easy and affordable summer decorating ideas will make your home feel like a mini getaway—with zero renovation required!
Swap in Light & Airy Textiles
Trade heavy throws and dark curtains for breezy, breathable fabrics like linen or cotton. Go for whites, soft pastels, or coastal blues to create that fresh summer feel.
Try this:
- Sheer white curtains
- Lightweight throws in sunny hues
- Pillow covers in tropical or striped patterns
Style tip: Mix in textures like rattan, fringe, or tassels for a relaxed, beachy touch.
Add a Pop of Citrus
Nothing says summer like citrus! A bowl of lemons or oranges on the kitchen counter, citrus-printed tea towels, or even a lemon-themed wreath can instantly energize your space.
Where to shop: Target’s summer kitchen section, Dollar Tree, Amazon
Bring the Outdoors In
Fresh greenery or florals (real or faux!) are a must. Think: sunflowers, eucalyptus, ferns, or even a vase of wildflowers from your backyard. Don’t have a green thumb? Faux plants still work wonders.
Pro tip: Swap heavy vases for woven baskets, mason jars, or painted pitchers.
Embrace Summer Scents
Light up candles or diffusers in refreshing scents like coconut, sea salt, citrus, or fresh linen. Scent plays a huge role in how a space feels—especially in warmer weather.
Favorites:
- Coconut Lime Verbena
- Lemon Basil
- Sea Mist
Brighten Your Entryway
First impressions count! Add a bright doormat, a small potted plant, or a seasonal wreath. Even a quick update like a coral or turquoise door hanger can set the mood.
Renter-friendly idea: Use removable hooks and battery-operated lights for an instant glow.
Refresh with Summer Art
Swap out dark or moody art for pieces that feel light and playful—think beach landscapes, watercolor prints, abstract pastels, or botanical illustrations.
DIY idea: Print free summer art online and pop it into a thrifted frame.
Layer in Coastal or Boho Accents
Introduce rattan, jute, and woven textures through trays, baskets, and mirrors. Even just a few beachy pieces—like driftwood, shells, or rope decor—can totally shift the vibe.
Great spots to shop: IKEA, H&M Home, World Market, local thrift stores
Lighten Up Your Color Palette
Swap out darker decor for items in soft blues, sand tones, sage green, coral, or yellow. You don’t have to go full-on nautical—just keep things bright and cheerful.
Tip: Pick 2–3 colors and repeat them throughout the space for a cohesive look.
Style a Summer Bar Cart or Drink Station
Use a bar cart, side table, or tray to create a cute summer drink station. Add lemonade pitchers, striped straws, drink stirrers, and a bowl of fresh fruit.
Bonus points: Add a tropical plant and fun sign like “Sunshine Served Daily.”
Create a Cozy Outdoor Nook
Even if you have a tiny balcony or front stoop, make it feel like a vacation spot with:
- A couple of comfy pillows
- Outdoor string lights
- A lantern or citronella candle
- A woven rug
No patio? Set up a sunny window nook indoors with a chair, plant, and summer reading stack.
Quick Tips to Keep in Mind:
- Less is more: Light and space go hand-in-hand in summer decorating
- Keep it breezy: Use fans, diffusers, and linen sprays for a fresh vibe
- Add sparkle: Fairy lights or battery lanterns = magical summer evenings
- Use what you have: Shop your home and repurpose with a seasonal twist!
Your summer decor doesn’t need to be perfect—just light, happy, and true to you. 🌞
Which summer swap are you trying first? Tag me in your sunny setup—I’d love to see how you styled it!
