From Snow to Sun: Transforming Your Home for the Summer Season

Summer is officially on its way. The days are longer; the air is warmer; the flora and fauna are vibrant and alive. 

As our daily routines adjust to accommodate the new season, so, too, should our homes. Homes that reflect the environment help us feel more in tune with our surroundings and with ourselves. Houses also serve a different purpose in the summertime — no longer a warm retreat from the cold, but a cool, relaxing space to decompress after long days in the sun. 

Refreshing your home for the summertime can also elevate it in the eyes of potential buyers. Seasonal touch-ups can help prospective buyers feel more present and connected to the space. If you’re considering selling, attention to detail and thoughtful decor go a long way in maintaining and even enhancing a property’s value. 

Just a few touches can help transform your house from a winter abode to a summer dream home.

4325 W Greens Place | Courtesy of Andrews 2 Team

Let the outside in

Trade any dark, heavy curtains for light, airy materials or matchstick blinds that let the sun shine through. Check that screens and screen doors are in good shape so you can open doors and windows and feel the summer breeze. Summer is also a great time to give your windows a good cleaning to maximize sunlight and views. 

Consider the natural world in your summer decor, too. Seasonal floral arrangements, potted plants, even fake greenery if you’re worried about keeping plants alive, all add pops of color and calm to any room they’re in.

But not too much outside

Winter mudrooms and entryways need to absorb moisture from the snow. Summer entryways are more concerned with dirt and grass. Consider a lighter welcome mat or entry rug that traps small particles like dirt and sand, and can easily be shaken out. Designate a space for hats, sunglasses, sunscreen and any other outdoor essentials you might want to grab on your way out the door.

 
826 Powderhorn Lane | Courtesy of Diana Dragancea 

Fabric swap

Do an audit of all your textiles: bedding, throw pillows, blankets, rugs. Swap heavy materials like wool or flannel for light, natural fibers like cotton and linen. A heavy duvet will keep you warm in the wintertime, but might feel suffocating in the summer months. Consider percale or sateen bedding for a cool, luxurious sleep. 

Celebrate light and color

Think about the sensations of summer: fresh, colorful produce; green grass; the heat of the sun on a summer day; fragrant flowers. Create moments throughout your home that evoke those same feelings. Don’t shy away from decorative pops of color that mimic what we find outside: tomato red, berry blue, sunshine yellow, heather green. Summer is a beautiful time to let our inside environment reflect the outside world: it is bright, colorful and joyous. Why wouldn’t we want that feeling in our home? 

Don’t forget your outdoor space!

A little routine maintenance in your yard and outdoor spaces goes a long way. Uncover and dust off your patio furniture, and make sure it’s clean and sturdy after a winter stowed away. Summer is a great time to set up outdoor lights. Inspect any water features and make sure they’re clean and ready to use. Check out the KW May blog that has more tips on how to prepare your outdoor space for the summer. 

15505 Tall Timber Road | Courtesy of Mary Kaudmann

Whether you want to stage your home for prospective buyers or want more tips on how to maintain its value, our agents can offer personal, locally-specific recommendations. 

Connect with us today to make the most of your summer home.