Decorating for Summer

Summer\'s just around the corner, and for home designers, it\'s time to update the décor and celebrate the good weather. If you\'re like most homeowners, you\'re probably thinking bright colors, generous light, and cheerful patterns. And you\'re right-but that\'s not all there is to it. This year, summer decorating is all about celebrating the positive with simple, inexpensive décor. And the good news is that you don\'t need to be a pro to do it.

The easiest way to introduce summer into your home is to add a splash of color. If you have a plain colored wall, you could put up some summer-themed wall art or wall decals. For bare floors, liven it up with a colorful area rug. Boring furniture? Throw on a slipcover in an interesting pattern. It doesn\'t have to be elaborate-sometimes it\'s the simplicity of your décor that really makes it stand out.

Try to emphasize open space in your home to complement the outdoors. Summer is the best time to get rid of clutter, reorganize, and open up some much-needed space. You\'d be surprised at how much you free up with just a few changes. With your newfound floor space, you can put up new décor, rearrange your room, or simply leave it open for a breezier look.

Summer is often associated with the sun, so bring some of that into your home as well. Open up the windows and let natural light illuminate the room. If you have a balcony or deck, take advantage of it and extend your living space to the outdoors. If you don\'t have one, take your cue from Asian designers and bring some outdoor elements into your space, such as indoor plants and natural stone and wood accents.

Area rugs are another great way to jazz up your home for the summer. The best rugs for summer are light and natural, fitting in with your décor without overpowering the room. Look for tropical area rugs, bamboo rugs, and other natural fibers such as jute and sisal. Make sure it matches your color scheme and has the right treatments to withstand the summer heat.

Redecorating your home is one of the best ways to celebrate summer weather. Here are some tips to help you get started.