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Summer decorating that combines ancient wisdom with modern solutions. Click now!
Summers in India have always been intense, but in the past, our ancestors had some ingenious strategies to keep homes cool and comfortable. Today, we face new challenges – traffic, pollution, work stress and unhealthy habits – especially as we spend more time indoors since the pandemic.
This blog explores how we can combine ancient wisdom with modern solutions to create a peaceful, cool oasis in our homes this summer. Dive into these eight summer decorating ideas!
In the past, Indian homes often had large courtyards and lush green surroundings that provided a naturally cool space. Although today, space and pollution limit our outdoor forays, we can still incorporate the simplest home decor for summer – plants – into our homes in the form of biophilic indoor spaces. Potted plants, vertical gardens and indoor trees not only cool the air through their evaporative effect but also improve air quality and create a soothing atmosphere.
Traditionally, materials like jute and khus were used in homes to screen windows and keep interiors cool. In modern interiors, you can opt for light colors and breathable fabrics like cotton and linen curtains, cushions and throws. These allow better air circulation and with a floral room freshener, you have a fresh and relaxed retreat.
Remember how our traditional Indian homes had large courtyards where people could relax? Given the space constraints in modern times, Indian homeowners should focus on minimalist interiors, especially as a decorating trick for summer. Tidying up and strategically arranging furniture provides ventilation and lets rooms breathe. Make your living room breathe like a hotel lobby by removing extra items and opting for space-saving furniture.
We know you miss your childhood summer vacations! While we can’t bring you the beach, we can make your home feel like a retreat. Not just plants, but a cozy hammock or rocking chair on your balcony and a babbling little body of water in the form of a fountain or an aquarium next to your front door. It’s time to slip into the comfy cotton clothes and read your favorite book while the sun goes down.
Decades ago, or even today, houses in some places were built with clay and bamboo, which have natural thermal properties. Incorporate furniture and summer decor made of bamboo, stone, wood and clay that bring the atmosphere of a retreat and give your home a very earthy touch. You can choose a wooden bookcase, a unique bamboo divider, rattan furniture and more!
Summer vacations at home mean long hours of movies, ordering in food and sleeping in! You obviously want your room to feel cool and cozy. First, lay out plenty of fluffy pillows; the more the better! Use pastel colors for bedding to create a soft, soothing atmosphere. Let in natural light with sheer curtains that let sunlight in while maintaining privacy. Use candles and diffusers with summery scents like coconut and sea scent for a refreshing ambiance. Consider getting a beautiful bookcase for those quiet reading hours.
In the past, kitchens were often set up away from the living room to keep heat and odor out. Today, homes must implement special strategies to keep kitchens cool and functional, especially in summer. Opt for neutral-colored cabinets for a minimalist look that reflects light and maintains a cooler environment. Installing an exhaust fan is essential to remove hot air and improve ventilation.
Also, consider creating kitchen gardens or growing natural herbs to create a fresh ambiance in the kitchen. These small changes can make your kitchen a comfortable and enjoyable place to cook during the hot summer months.
Although we’ve covered the essentials, it would be a sin not to throw in some funky summer decor ideas. If a wall has been bare and plain for a long time, it’s time to jazz it up with a beach painting. Consider adding a seashell decor piece for the coffee table to create coastal vibes. Use mirrors and opt for glossy finishes to help reflect natural light and make your home feel larger and more spacious. And nothing beats a summer scent diffuser; enter a home that feels refreshing and invigorating every time.