There’s nothing quite like that first warm breeze of summer to make me want to fling open the windows and breathe new life into my home. Whether you're hosting friends on the patio or just want your living room to feel a little sunnier, summer is the perfect time to freshen things up with a few easy updates. Below, I’m sharing 10 summer home decor ideas that will instantly brighten your space.

1. Swap in Lightweight Curtains

I have two sets of curtains, one for Fall/Winter, and one for Spring/Summer. Growing up in New England, one of my favorite seasonal traditions was watching my mother swap out the heavy winter drapes, for breezy white linen. I don’t need to tell you that curtains are pretty expensive, luckily there are some great affordable options that make it easier to lighten up and bring that tradition into your home too!

2. Add Fresh (or Faux) Greenery

Nothing makes a space feel alive like a touch of green. During the warmer months, I love adding small potted herbs in the kitchen, leafy stems in oversized vases, or even a faux olive tree in the entry. It instantly makes a room feel styled and seasonal.

3. Change Your Bedding

I treat bedding like clothing, there’s a time to layer up, and a time to lighten up. For summer, I switch to a breathable cotton or linen duvet in a light color, and fold a patterned Kathna quilt at the end of the bed for color and texture.

Related Post: How to Layer Bedding Like a Designer

4. Incorporate Woven and Natural Materials

Rattan, cane, jute, seagrass, natural textures are synonymous with summer. Whether it's a jute doormat, a cane tray on the coffee table, or woven dining chairs, these materials bring that effortless, breezy feel we all crave this time of year.

5. Bring in a Coastal-Inspired Palette

You don’t have to live near the water to bring a little beachy calm into your home. Soft blues, warm whites, sandy taupes, and driftwood-inspired tones can help create a laid-back, summery vibe, even in a city apartment.

6. Restyle Your Shelves

Take 10 minutes to edit your bookshelves or open kitchen shelving. I remove anything that feels too heavy and style with stacks of design books, ceramic bowls, summer candles, and maybe a shell or two picked up from past travels. I do this at the change of every season to keep things fresh.

7. Add a Fresh Scent

I’m a firm believer that scent is part of decor. For summer, I swap out heavier candles for fresh, clean scents like grapefruit, sea salt, eucalyptus, or white florals. A diffuser with essential oils is another great option if you prefer something subtle.

8. Update Your Entryway

This is one of the first spots guests (and you!) see, so I like to keep it light and functional. A woven basket for flip flops, a pretty mirror to reflect light, and a summery runner can make a big difference without a big spend.

9. Play With Seasonal Art

Swapping art doesn’t have to mean buying something new. I’ll often move pieces around the house or print out a few free digital downloads in summer tones or botanical themes. Paired with a simple wood or white frame, it feels fresh and intentional.

10. Style a Summer Centerpiece

Whether it’s a bowl of citrus, a bundle of hydrangeas from the yard, or a mix of taper candles and shells, a styled centerpiece is an easy way to make your kitchen island or dining table feel pulled together for the season.

You don’t need to redecorate your whole home to feel the change of seasons. Just a few intentional swaps can breathe new life into your space and help it reflect the mood of summer—relaxed, fresh, and full of light.

Looking for a little more inspiration?
Grab my free Mini Paint Guide with three color palettes and to help you pull everything together beautifully.

Explore the Whole House Paint Color Collection for a more in-depth color guide, including six Benjamin Moore paint colors, three wallpaper options, room-by-room instructions, sheen guide, and a mini furniture and decor roundup to help you create the cohesive home of your dreams.

10 Summer Home Decor Ideas to Instantly Refresh Your Space