21 Easy Summer Home Decor Projects For When Its Hot Outside

When the heat becomes unbearable, it’s natural to want to retreat indoors and seek refuge from the sweltering temperatures. But what if I told you that this same heat wave could be an opportunity to tackle some easy home decor projects? That’s right – when it’s too hot outside, it’s a great time to focus on indoor endeavors. As much as we love spending time outdoors during the summer season, there are times when the heat becomes just too much.

And let’s face it, not everyone has the luxury of living in a beach house by the ocean or a mountain cabin where the temperature is always comfortable. But that doesn’t mean you can’t find ways to keep yourself occupied and productive while waiting for the heat wave to pass. One thing I’ve learned is that sometimes it’s the small details that make all the difference in a room.

Little tweaks and changes that don’t require a lot of tools or expertise, but can still have a significant impact on the overall look and feel of the space. And the best part? These types of projects are often low-key and low-cost, so you won’t need to break out the checkbook or take a trip to the hardware store in the middle of a heatwave. The truth is, these easy home decor projects don’t require a lot of time, money, or skill.

And at the end of the day, there’s something satisfying about knowing that you’ve accomplished something without breaking a sweat – literally!

Simple Summer Home Decor Projects: 21 Ideas to Beat the Heat

While I thoroughly enjoy summer DIY projects, this collection doesn’t feature one. Instead, these refreshing summer decor ideas will leave you revitalized and ready to tackle the rest of the season.

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Switch Out Your Bed Linens

Transform your bedroom’s ambiance by swapping out heavy winter linens for lighter, airier fabrics. Ditch those thick wool blankets and plush velvet pillows in favor of crisp cotton or linen throws, slipcovers, and gauzy curtains in refreshing hues like aqua, lemon yellow, or coral. For a neutral look, opt for whites, creams, and taupes that instantly brighten the room. Consider switching out your comforter and duvet, or removing one to create a sense of airiness.

Finally, rearrange your pillows to showcase summer-inspired colors and textures, and reap the benefits of a lighter, more inviting bedroom.

Rearrange Your Artwork

When your art collection has been static for some time, consider refreshing it with new pieces from other rooms or areas of your home. Alternatively, if budget allows, introduce a few affordable prints or paintings that harmonize with your summer color scheme. One cost-effective approach is to discover and repurpose free summer-themed printables on Etsy or bloggers’ websites, framing them in lightweight frames for a seamless blend into your existing decor.

I recently ordered this charming summer bookcase artwork from Etsy, eagerly anticipating the opportunity to frame it once our new bookcases arrive from Ballard. Another simple yet effective way to revitalize a space is by rotating art pieces, such as this beachy blue-toned artwork that perfectly captures the essence of summer.

Rearrange Your Furniture Layout

Rearranging furniture is an effortless way to revitalize a space. By simply shifting pieces around, you can transform the ambiance and functionality of your living areas. In fact, reconfiguring your furniture layout can make a room feel cooler and more airy by allowing for better airflow and cross-ventilation. To get started, try pushing pieces away from walls to create cozy conversation zones or float them to open up the space.

This not only prevents blocking airflow but also creates a sense of openness and freedom. When it comes to positioning sofas, chairs, or beds in front of windows that receive plenty of sunlight, consider moving them away from the window’s direct rays. This can help prevent overheating and create a more comfortable atmosphere. Another clever trick is to angle chairs towards fans or vents to maximize their cooling effect.

By thoughtfully rearranging your furniture, you can achieve a more relaxed and inviting space that’s perfect for relaxing or entertaining.

Chose a New Color Scheme for the Summer

As the seasons transition, it’s a great opportunity to refresh your home’s aesthetic by introducing a new color scheme. Consider embracing nature-inspired hues or injecting some vibrancy into your space. For my own home, I opted for a bold and daring approach, incorporating a striking shade that has become a focal point in our living room.

Move Throw Rugs Around

Consider revamping your flooring experience by either repositioning area rugs to create a new ambiance or, if feasible, removing them altogether. This allows you to fully appreciate the texture and aesthetic of your hardwood or marble floors, perfect for warm summer days when going barefoot is an added pleasure.

Change Out Throw Pillows and Throws

When it comes to throw pillows and blankets, consider the seasonal shift in your decor. As summer approaches, you may not require these cozy elements as much. Consider temporarily relocating them to another room or storing them in breathable bags until the cooler months return.

For an alternative to traditional throws, explore lightweight pashminas, large scarves, or Turkish towels for a similar texture and aesthetic.

I personally adore the softness and fringe detail of Turkish towels, which can add a touch of warmth and visual interest to any space.

Do Decluttering and Reorganization

As the warm weather sets in, take advantage of the opportunity to thoroughly declutter and reorganize your living space. Start by focusing on one room, such as the kitchen or bathroom, and dedicate yourself to tidying up the drawers. Next, tackle closets, cabinets, and bookshelves, ruthlessly clearing out any items that no longer serve a purpose or bring you joy. Once you’ve purged the unwanted, organize what’s left in a way that is both functional and visually pleasing.

The sense of accomplishment that comes from having a clutter-free space can be incredibly uplifting, and the benefits extend beyond mere aesthetics – a tidy environment has been shown to have a profound impact on stress levels.

Create a Summer Reading Nook

Transform a cozy corner into a serene reading haven by placing a chair beside a compact table. As the sun shines brightly during the summer months, this intimate setting is perfect for getting lost in a favorite book. A softly lit lamp will ensure comfortable reading, while the chair’s orientation allows you to take in the lush summer scenery outside. The vibrant colors and natural ambiance of this nook make it an ideal spot to unwind with a good novel.

Imagine curling up with Elin Hildebrand’s latest bestseller on a warm summer day – pure bliss!

Rearrange a Bookshelf or Hutch

To revitalize your bookshelf, start by removing everything from your shelves and restyling it by thoughtfully blending books with decorative objects like vases, framed photos, potted plants, and other items. This curated approach can add a touch of summer charm to the space.

For a cohesive look, consider arranging items by color palette. This will create a visually appealing display that draws the eye.

To avoid overwhelming the space, remove about 20-30% of the accessories and let the bookshelves breathe. Alternatively, you can bring in some decorative items from other rooms or remove them altogether to simplify the space.

A very minimalist approach to a summer-themed bookcase is also an option. This neutral look can be achieved by removing most of the accessories and focusing on a few statement pieces that add a touch of summer flair.

Create a Bar Cart for Summer Imbibing

Transform your living space into a haven of relaxation by repurposing a small table as a bar cart. Add a touch of elegance with a pretty tray and fill it with decanters, wine glasses, or other stylish barware. For inspiration, check out the beautiful examples from Road to Mindfulness. If you’re short on space, don’t worry! Create a cozy spot for summer refreshments using a simple tray, as shown by Remodelacasa. And what’s more refreshing than treating yourself to a delicious Piña Colada?

Add a Centerpiece to the Kitchen or Dining Room

Elevate your dining experience by adding a charming centerpiece to your kitchen or dining room table. Create a visually appealing arrangement using a decorative tray, vase, or other creative containers. Fill the space with fresh summer flowers for a burst of color and add a touch of elegance. For an added pop of freshness, place a bowl of citrus fruits on the table or kitchen counter. The vibrant hues and inviting aroma will instantly transform your dining atmosphere.

Create a Small Summer Vignette

Create a visually appealing tabletop vignette by stacking baskets, trays, or cutting boards on a small table or shelf. This arrangement is perfect for capturing the essence of summer with its calming blue tones, reminiscent of hydrangea blooms. To elevate this display, incorporate natural elements such as potted plants, flowers, decorative dishes or boxes, and candles. Opt for items in earthy materials and soft colors that evoke a carefree summer vibe.

Update Your Decor with Seasonal Touches

Transform your living space into a refreshing retreat by incorporating seasonal decor elements. One simple yet effective way to do so is by introducing a vibrant floral pillow, complemented by a solid pink accent piece. This bold combination injects a pop of summer charm and visual interest into the room. To further enhance the ambiance, consider swapping out heavier blankets for lightweight pashminas and striped scarves, creating a light and airy atmosphere perfect for warm weather months.

Manage the Mantel for Summer

Streamlining your mantel’s display can work wonders in creating a sense of lightness and breathability in your space. Consider paring down the number of items on your mantel by removing half of them, allowing for a more minimalist approach. This simple tweak can have a profound impact on the overall aesthetic of your room, making it feel less cluttered and more inviting.

In fact, leaving some surfaces uncovered can be incredibly liberating, giving your eyes a chance to rest from all the visual stimulation. I took this approach when updating our mantel for the summer season, deliberately leaving a significant amount of negative space in the center to create a sense of openness. This strategic decision allowed the newly introduced colored glass vases to take center stage, their vibrant hues popping against the clean backdrop.

Redesign Your Coffee Table for Summer

Transform your living space with effortless elegance by rearranging the layout of your furniture. For a pop of color and a touch of whimsy, add faux flowers in vibrant hues to a statement vase. In this example, bright green vases are paired with cheerful summer blooms, creating a lively atmosphere that’s perfect for any season.

Move Plants

When it comes to providing optimal lighting for your indoor plants, consider relocating them to different rooms based on the amount of natural light each space receives. For plants that thrive in low-light conditions, you may need to adjust their placement as more sunlight enters a room. This flexibility is crucial for ensuring your plants receive the right amount of illumination.

Change Out Color

When it comes to interior design, the role of color in regulating our perception of temperature is often overlooked. However, a neutral palette featuring whites and creams can instantly create a cooling ambiance. To achieve this look, incorporate natural greenery into pots and artwork. This subtle yet effective approach will set the tone for a calming atmosphere.

To further emphasize the coolness, consider replacing heavy dark planters with colorful alternatives such as mason jars or clear glass vases. The resulting visual contrast will not only add visual interest but also contribute to an overall sense of refreshment.

In terms of color itself, light and cool hues like blues, greens, and grays tend to have a more significant cooling effect than warm tones like reds, oranges, and yellows, which can give a space a cozy yet warm feeling.

The incorporation of white or off-white furniture also plays a crucial role in creating an airy, cool ambiance.

Conversely, it’s essential to avoid dark colors like black, brown, or navy, as these tend to absorb more heat and contribute to a sense of warmth. By adopting these simple yet effective design principles, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a space that not only looks great but also feels refreshingly cool.

Go for Lighter Textures

When it comes to designing a space that embodies the essence of summer, it’s essential to incorporate textures that evoke feelings of warmth and comfort. Start by opting for natural materials like cotton, linen, rattan, and jute, which possess breathable and cooling properties that will keep your room feeling refreshingly cool. In contrast, synthetic fabrics, leather, and vinyl tend to trap heat and make a space feel warmer.

To further enhance the summer vibe, consider furniture pieces with light, natural finishes that give off a cooler aura. Metal furniture can also remain cooler to the touch compared to upholstered pieces. Take it up a notch by layering lightweight slipcovers made of cotton or linen over upholstered furniture for an airy and natural look. Open, slatted designs on furniture allow for airflow, keeping your space feeling breezy.

Similarly, swapping out heavy curtains for sheer, flowy window treatments can bring in the sunshine and let the warmth in. Finally, choose area rugs made from natural fibers like sisal or jute to add a touch of warmth underfoot without absorbing heat.

Clean Out a Closet

When it comes to maximizing the efficiency of a closet, one crucial step is to purge unwanted or outdated items from your space. Take some time to sort through your belongings and identify those that are no longer serving you. Consider letting go of old swimsuits, flip flops, sandals, or tote bags that have seen better days and can be safely donated or discarded.

To get started, set aside a bag for donations and begin filling it with items that are still in good condition but hold little sentimental value. As you sort through your belongings, also make note of out-of-season items that can be packed away until they’re needed again. For example, I recently went through my summer wardrobe and removed several t-shirts that had been stored away since the previous year. Upon inspection, I discovered tiny stains that made them unworthy of being kept.

By letting go of these items, you’ll not only declutter your space but also free up mental energy previously spent on maintaining unnecessary possessions.

Pare Down Dishes and Glassware

When the seasons change, why not reflect that in your table settings? Consider storing away heavier, cozier dishware sets like those often associated with fall and winter, and opt for lighter, brighter options during the warmer months. White dishes and serving pieces can help create a crisp, summery vibe, while also providing a versatile backdrop for any seasonal decor.

Similarly, swap out heavier glassware for delicate, clear or white pieces that will add to the airy, carefree atmosphere of summer. By doing so, you’ll not only be updating your table settings to fit the season, but also creating a sense of continuity and flow between different areas of your home.

Air Out the Guest Room

Transform your guest room into a cozy retreat that welcomes weary travelers with open arms. To begin, refresh the linens by airing them out, and add a touch of natural elegance with a vase full of fresh flowers or lush greenery on the nightstand. A light summer read placed alongside will only enhance the ambiance. For an added touch of hospitality, provide a refreshing glass of iced water in an insulated container and place it on a nearby side table, where your guests can easily access it.

By creating a serene and inviting space, you’ll be ensuring that your visitors feel right at home.

Summer Home Decor Ideas

Beat the heat this summer and transform your living space into a refreshing oasis with these stunning summer home decor ideas. For a start, why not try incorporating vibrant colors into your living room? From bold accent walls to bright throw pillows, there are countless ways to add a pop of color to your space. And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, consider creating a focal point in the room using a statement piece of furniture or a show-stopping chandelier.

Whatever you choose, be sure to share your summer home decor projects with friends and family – and don’t forget to pin this post for future reference! Check out my Summer Home Decor Pinterest Board for more inspiration.