Photo: bluekdesign / Flickr

As winter draws to a close it is time to get ready for the balmy days of summer. This year bring that summer feeling into your home by redecorating your house with great summer gear. You may not have time to go to the beach, have a barbeque or family picnic but with a few simple tricks you can bring that summer vacation into the look and feel of your family’s home.

The summer feeling

There are a few simple things that you can do in your home to instantly give it that summer feeling. Summer brings with it a clean, fresh and fruity smell – translate that aroma into your cleaning products. Keep your windows open, stay away from harsh chemicals and use products with a fresh, citrus scent. Swap your heavy winter curtains for blinds or light, lacy drapes and instantly your house will appear brighter and more welcoming.

The little touches

Bringing summer into your home is all in the little touches. Dotting your home with fresh sunflowers will automatically brighten any room but if you can’t stand the maintenance or you are allergic, go for some stunning silk flowers. Baskets of flowers will also give your home that cute, country feeling – you can even fill baskets with cutlery or use them for dirty washing.

The bigger things

Summer is all about bright colours so consider buying coloured plates, changing your linen or even painting a wall. If you are feeling really energetic then refurbish your furniture – you can buy some simple scatter cushions or strip dark wood patio furniture and finish it with a light, white-washed paint effect.

A family affair

Summer is all about having fun with family so be sure to get everyone involved in your summer redecorating. Make curtains ordained with brightly coloured hand prints from your children, put up an outside swing at get a fun doormat to welcome your visitors. Buy a blender, make some gorgeous cocktails and set out a blanket under a yellow umbrella and just be lazy in the sun this summer.

Tags: garden furniture, home decor