6 Design Tricks to Make Your Home Feel Like Summer

Your wardrobe fluctuates from season to season — shouldn’t your home decor do the same? Warmer temperatures call for backyard barbecues and rooftop soirees, which means lots of at-home entertaining. Impress your guests by transforming your home into a summer getaway with our roundup of six simple design tricks.

Conran’s Wicker Chair, $245; Rattan Placemats, $85

Though it may have a retro, shabby-chic connotation, rattan is an affordable, summery material that interior designers everywhere are loving. Forego bulky patio furniture with brightly printed cushions (à la Golden Girls) in favor of sleeker pieces that pair well with even the most modern furnishings. For the dining table, rattan placemats provide a simple, neutral backdrop suitable for any dinnerware.

Holmegaard Vase, $150; Kosta Boda Vase, $65; Robert Kuo Nesting Tables, $2,250; Paul Smith Pillow, $75

Dark, subdued tones are great for winter, but with summer in full swing, it’s time to lighten up with brighter hues. Bring the outdoors in with fresh flowers in a vibrant vase or swap out your wood coffee table for bold lacquered nesting tables.

KPM Berlin Vases, $945; Stark Carpets Rug, $245; Alexandra Von Furstenberg Side Table, $3,200

If your style is more minimal, try decorating in a mix of white and other light neutrals. The clean, fresh palette will make any space seem larger and give off a Hamptons beach house vibe.

Bagni Lido, Massimo Vitali, $2,500

Even if you live in a landlocked locale, you can still enjoy the coastal scenery with beach-themed photography. We particularly love Massimo Vitali’s large-scale, pastel-hued snapshots of Italian beachgoers.

Hermès Beach Towel, $295; Hermès Fringed Towel, $125

Hermès’ nautical motifs work on the bathroom towel rack as well as on the sand, while brightly colored fringe styles can double as throw blankets draped on the back of the sofa.

Tiffany & Co. Devon Pitcher, $95; R&Y Augousti Shagreen Bowls, $325; Haviland Fleurs et Rubans Plates, $245; Missoni Placemats, $95

Balmy summer nights call for firing up the grill and dining al fresco. With that in mind, select summery tableware that works outdoors or in. For a rustic vibe, set the table with hand-painted floral porcelain plates or large serving bowls in natural materials. Add instant summer flair with Missoni’s signature chevron and be sure to keep a pitcher on-hand for summer cocktails or a refreshing lemonade.