Get in the summer spirit: 10 home decor ideas to brighten your mood

Summer is the perfect season to refresh your home décor and bring some warmth and brightness to your living space. With insights from Pallavi Sethi, Co-Founder, Indeva Furniture Design, and Atif Shamsi, CEO and Founder, OuchCart, we've compiled 10 great ideas to turn your home into a summer haven. So, brighten up your home and lighten your mood!

1. Neutral tones add warmthNeutrals and muted tones like taupe, off-white, cream and earthy tones can add depth, calm and intimacy to your home. Incorporate a vanity in your living area, such as a flat-white standout comfy chair, or upgrade your existing mirror to a wooden frame. “Redecorating your furniture by replacing its legs with wooden or brass ones is a worthwhile solution. If the scene is too stark, add a luxurious layer with cozy cushions and a super-soft linen throw, or go for a nuanced two-tone look to exude opulence,” says Sethi.
2. Lighten your load with wicker and rattanReplace heavy, bulky furniture with lighter wicker or rattan pieces. “These materials give off a natural feel and create an airy atmosphere that's perfect for summers. Replace your heavy sofa with a wicker chair or add a wicker armchair in your dining room or garden to create a laid-back feel,” says Shamsi.
3. Create an organized spaceA clutter-free space promotes calm and reduces anxiety. Invest in pantries and storage units that maximize functionality. Sethi adds: “Upgrade your kitchen with floating shelves to organise pots and pans. Get creative with storage solutions, such as raising a bed to create closet space underneath or creating a colourful banquette with hidden storage. Pair it with a bistro table and chairs for a serene, Parisian setup.”
4. Bring the outdoors indoorsIncorporate plants into your home to create a connection with nature. Create a plant shelf or vertical garden to accentuate a wall. “Repurpose a console or bedside table as a plant shelf and paint your doors a vibrant green to add extra vibrancy. Use natural materials like wood and bamboo in your furniture and choose tactile fabrics like cotton and linen with nature-inspired patterns to create balance and harmony,” says Sethi.
5. Say Yes to CurvesCurved furniture adds a striking impact to your living space. Covered in soft, textured fabrics, these pieces bring personality to a drab area. Don't go overboard with curves; one or two pieces of furniture are enough to create a focal point. Add grooves or fluting to storage cabinet doors to add visual interest.
6. Increase natural lightSunshine is synonymous with happiness. Renovate and repaint your windows and decorate them with curtains in soft hues to let more light in. Strategically placed windows give the impression of more space and give you the much-needed rest. In a small apartment, use room dividers and wall dividers to create clear zones. A stylish entrance hall with an organic wall extension or a stunning jalidhar wall made of wood and rattan can help you create a work or yoga zone.
7. Modular furniture provides versatilityOpt for modular furniture that can be rearranged as needed, especially in summer. “Things like movable sectionals and modular shelving that can be adapted to different uses can make your space more efficient and flexible,” says Shamsi.
8. Freshen up your space with vibrant rugsChoosing a rug with a bold geometric or floral pattern will add character and warmth to any room. Whether it's a living room, bedroom or dining area, a vibrant rug can transform the feel of the space.
9. Shine bright with a statement piece“To set the mood for summer evenings, update your lighting. Replace your current lamps with standout pieces like pendant lights or ceramic table lamps in soft, beachy hues. Warm, inviting lighting will enhance the ambience and create a cosy ambience perfect for get-togethers,” suggests Shamsi.
10. Transforming the dining experienceUpdate your dining area to enjoy stylish summer meals with family and friends. Choose a stand-out dining table, whether it's a modern or sleek design, and pair it with comfortable chairs upholstered in linen or cotton. Complete the look with fresh flowers, table linens in contrasting hues and colorful tableware. Add wind chimes in the entryway to attract positive energy and create a relaxing space all season long.

These decorating ideas will help you transform your home into a vibrant, uplifting haven of summer warmth and joy.