100 Relaxed Summer Decorating Ideas for the Entire Home

In this post: Here are 100 simple yet elegant summer decorating ideas to infuse your entire home with the relaxed elegance of a summer resort.⇒

I have a vision in my mind of what a home should be like in summer.

It’s more an attitude than a look and it hinges on memories of days past, spent relaxing in the countryside. I envision wispy white linens billowing in the breeze and cherries languishing in a blue and white bowl. I see gingham check napkins and woven market baskets, yet I also hear the light clack of a screen door closing.

For me, summer at home should be relaxed and casual, yet at the same time indulgent in leisure and the spoils of fresh market fare. Fruit pies, ice cream, lemonade and all the rest.

These are exactly the visions that inform my summer decorating, a time when I want my home to be more ‘welcoming bed and breakfast’ than suburban hideaway.

If like me you’d like to infuse your home with a resort-like atmosphere, the ideas and tips in this post are tailor made for you. They pay mind to all the senses rather than mere eye candy, and are designed to add that secret sauce of carefree tranquility and easy-going spontaneity. Think wind-chimes and hammocks, in addition to the standard pillows and vases.

Read on for 100 ways to bring the relaxed essence of summer into the spaces in your home, with tips divided by room. Then find additional tips for adding that vacation vibe, as well.

Living Room Summer Decor

• White Slipcovers: Refresh your sofas and chairs with white or light-colored slipcovers to brighten the space.
• Accent Pillows: Swap out pillow covers for lighter, brighter summer-themed designs.
• Soft Throws: Have lightweight cotton or linen throws available for cooler evenings.
• Layered Rugs: Layer sisal rugs with patterned area rugs to add texture and define seating areas.
• Coastal Accents: Decorate with seashells, driftwood, and nautical decor to bring the beach inside.
• Sheer Curtains: Hang sheer curtains to allow natural light to filter through while maintaining a light, airy feel.
• Tropical Plants: Introduce large tropical plants, like palms or birds of paradise, to enhance the summer vibe.
• Decorative Baskets: Use wicker or rattan baskets for storing pillows and throws.
• Artwork Featuring Landscapes: Choose artwork that depicts serene landscapes or ocean views.
• Coffee Table Books: Stack books about travel, photography, or summer recipes on coffee tables.
• Ceramic Vases: Display ceramic vases in various shapes and sizes, filled with fresh or dried flowers.
• Scented Candles: Use scented candles or essential oil diffusers with summery fragrances like citrus or jasmine.
• Floating Shelves: Install floating shelves to display summer-themed decor and keepsakes.
• Light Paint Colors: Opt for light, neutral wall colors to keep the room feeling fresh and open.
• Mood Lighting: Install multiple light sources for evening ambiance, including table lamps and floor lamps.
• Sunlight Mirrors: Place sunburst mirrors strategically to reflect and amplify natural light throughout the room.
• Ottoman Centerpieces: Use a large, plush ottoman as a coffee table/footrest combo for versatile use.
• Indoor/Outdoor Flow: Use bi-fold doors or large French doors to connect the living room with the outdoors.

Dining Room Summer Decor

• Floral Centerpieces: Create a centerpiece with a large pitcher or vase filled with fresh-cut flowers from the garden. Nest it in an oversized organic wood bowl.
• Seasonal Slipcovers: Use slipcovers to transform your dining chairs seasonally, opting for lighter colors and fabrics in the summer.
• Light and Airy Table Settings: Use lightweight and natural materials for your table settings. Linen tablecloths and napkins, bamboo placemats, and clear glass or light-colored ceramic dishware look fresh and inviting.
• Decorative Chargers: Use decorative charger plates under your regular dinnerware to add an extra layer of elegance to dinner settings.
• Tiered Fruit Trays: Arrange a selection of summer fruits like berries and melon on a tiered serving tray for an earthy feel that’s perfect for summer.
• Soft Lighting: Install a dimmer switch for your main lights and add several sources of soft lighting, such as candles in hurricane vases or tabletop lanterns, to create a relaxed and warm ambiance.
• Rattan or Wicker Furniture: Incorporate elements of rattan or wicker in your dining chairs or side furniture. These materials are not only durable but also add a touch of casual resort elegance.
• Flowing Draperies: Replace heavy drapes with lighter, sheer fabrics that move with the breeze and soften the sunlight. Choose neutral tones or soft pastels to enhance the sense of serenity and space.
• Botanical Prints: Hang a series of framed botanical prints or abstract art that complements the summer theme.
• Refreshing Beverage Station: Set up a small side table with a pitcher of iced water infused with cucumber and mint, a lemonade dispenser, or iced tea, along with beautiful glasses to serve.
• Hanging Planters: Integrate hanging planters with ferns or trailing ivy to add vertical interest and greenery, making the space feel more like an outdoor oasis.
• Outdoor Feel Indoors: If you have large windows or French doors in your dining room, keep them open during meals to merge indoor and outdoor spaces, enhancing the summer resort vibe.
• Seaside Accents: Integrate coastal decor elements like seashells, driftwood, or a bowl of sand and sea glass into your dining room decor.
• Mirrored Elements: Add a mirrored tray or decorative mirror to reflect light and add a touch of glam.
• Bar Cart: Equip a stylish bar cart with fine spirits and chic glassware, ready for summer entertaining.
• Accent Wallpaper: Create a feature wall with floral peel-and-stick wallpaper to add depth and interest to the room.
• Elegant Ceiling Fan: Install a ceiling fan with a light fixture to keep the room cool and well-lit, choosing a style that complements the room’s decor.
• Mix of Seating: Use a mix of seating options like benches, chairs, and stools for a relaxed feel.

Kitchen Summer Decor

• Painted Cabinets: Give your cabinets a fresh coat of paint in a light, summery color.
• Herb Garden: Install a small indoor herb garden near a kitchen window for fresh cooking ingredients.
• Fruit Bowl Centerpiece: Display fresh produce like lemons, limes, and berries in decorative bowls or baskets.
• Kitchen Linens: Swap out heavy kitchen linens for lightweight towels and oven mitts in bright colors.
• Natural Textures: Incorporate natural textures with wooden cutting boards or woven placemats.
• Chalkboard: Hang a chalkboard or corkboard for jotting down grocery lists or meal plans.
• Canisters: Organize pantry staples in clear jars or canisters for easy access and a tidy look. Use teacups as colorful scoops.
• Refreshed Countertops: Deep clean or refurbish countertops to make the kitchen feel new and clean.
• Open Shelving: Use open shelving to display colorful dishes or glassware for a summery vibe.
• Window Coverings: Hang curtains or blinds in light, airy fabrics to let in natural light.
• Floor Runners: Add floor mats or runners in summer colors and patterns.
• Wall Art: Hang wall art that depicts summer scenes or culinary themes.
• Under-Cabinet Lighting: Add under-cabinet lighting to enhance the work area and add ambiance.
• Kitchen Accessories: Add a touch of whimsy with fun kitchen accessories like colorful tea towels or novelty salt and pepper shakers.
• Hanging Pot Rack: Install a hanging pot rack to free up cabinet space and add a functional decorative element.
• Nostalgic Touches: Display vintage kitchen gadgets or cookbooks for a touch of nostalgia.
• Seating Area: Create a small seating area with stools or a bench where guests can sit and chat during meal prep.
• Tablecloth or Runners: Refresh the kitchen table with a new tablecloth or runner in a vibrant summer hue.

Bedroom Summer Decor

• Light Bedding: Switch to lightweight bedding such as cotton or linen in pale, soothing colors.
• Refreshing Color Palette: Emphasize a refreshing color palette with aquas, light blues, or mint greens.
• Summer Quilts: Display a light summer quilt or coverlet with vibrant patterns.
• Bedside Rugs: Place soft, plush rugs on either side of the bed for comfort and warmth underfoot.
• Beach-Inspired Artwork: Hang artwork that features beaches, ocean scenes, or tropical prints.
• Window Treatments: Use light and breezy window treatments to maintain privacy while allowing natural light.
• Nightstand Refresh: Top nightstands with vacation-inspired items like a coral piece or a stylish lamp.
• Room Scent: Place lavender sachets or scented candles to create a calming ambiance for relaxation.
• Accent Wall: Paint one wall in a bold, summer-inspired color or cover it with tropical wallpaper.
• Floor Cushions: Add floor cushions for a laid-back, bohemian touch.
• Decorative Throws: Place decorative throws at the foot of the bed for added texture and color.
• Personal Photos: Display personal vacation photos in beachy frames or create a summer-themed photo wall.
• Reading Nook: Create a cozy corner with a comfortable chair and good lighting for summer reading.
• Canopy Bed: If feasible, add a canopy frame to your bed with light draping fabric for a luxurious feel.
• Airy Bed Skirt: Add an airy bed skirt to conceal under-bed storage and add a soft, decorative touch.
• Ceiling Fan Update: Install a chic ceiling fan to keep the room cool and comfortable during hot nights.
• Storage Solutions: Use under-bed storage boxes or baskets to keep summer gear handy but out of sight.
• Dressing Area: Set up a dressing area with a vintage screen for privacy and a tall mirror.

Front Entry Summer Decor

• Welcoming Paint: Give your front door a fresh coat of paint in a bright, welcoming color like turquoise or coral.
• Seasonal Wreaths: Hang a seasonal wreath made from flowers or seaside elements on the front door.
• Symmetrical Planters: Place a pair of matching planters with lush greenery or flowering plants on each side of the door.
• New Doormat: Update your doormat to something seasonal and chic, perhaps with a nautical or floral theme.
• Elegant Lighting: Upgrade your overhead lighting or add sconces next to the door to brighten the entryway.
• Console Table: Place a slim console table inside the door for decorative items and practical storage.
• Mirror Install: Hang a decorative mirror to reflect light and add depth.
• Key Drop Zone: Use a pretty bowl to create a stylish area for dropping keys and mail as you enter.
• Shoe Rack: Incorporate a chic shoe rack or a storage bench for convenience and organization.
• Umbrella Stand: Place a decorative umbrella stand to hold beach umbrellas and rain gear.
• Wall Hooks: Install rustic wall hooks to hang straw summer hats and totes.
• Textured Rug: Lay down a textured, durable rug that can handle foot traffic and add visual interest.
• Gallery Wall: Hang a gallery wall with artwork or framed prints that evoke a summery vibe.
• Seating Area: Create a seating area with a garden bench or pair of chairs for putting on shoes or waiting for guests.
• Floral Accents: Use vases with decorative branches or a fresh floral arrangement for a seasonal lift.
• Statement Piece: Include a statement piece like a sculpture or a unique piece of furniture to anchor the space.
• Updated Hardware: Refresh the hardware on your door for a quick and easy update.
• Clear Clutter: Keep the entryway clutter-free and organized to make a good first impression on guests.

Create a Resort-like Atmosphere in Your Home

• Outdoor Oasis: If you have outdoor space, make the most of it by setting up a hammock, outdoor sofas, or sun loungers. Add a fire pit or an outdoor projector for evening entertainment under the stars.
• Soothing Sounds: Incorporate elements that engage the senses, like a small indoor water fountain or wind chimes near a window, to bring soothing sounds that remind you of a spa or beachside resort.
• Luxurious Linens: Upgrade your bath and bed linens to plush towels and high-thread-count sheets. Opt for cooling materials like bamboo or linen that feel luxurious against the skin and help with better sleep during warm nights.
• Spa Vibes in the Bathroom: Turn your bathroom into a spa-like sanctuary with aromatic bath salts, candles, and a tray across the bathtub to hold a book and a glass of wine. Consider a towel warmer for an added touch of luxury.
• Mood Lighting: Replace bright, harsh lights with soft, warm bulbs. Add plenty of candles and lanterns to create a gentle ambiance that transforms your space at night.
• Vacation Mementos: Display decor and photos from your favorite vacations to bring back the joy and relaxation you felt. Items like sand bottles, pebbles, or holiday photos can act as lovely reminders.
• Refreshing Scents: Use diffusers, incense, or scented candles with smells reminiscent of your favorite destinations, like coconut, vanilla, or sea breeze, to infuse your home with refreshing aromas.
• Lush Greenery: Introduce more plants into your home; choose large leafy greens like banana plants or palms to create a tropical feel. Not only do they beautify the space, but they also improve indoor air quality.
• Relaxed Dining: Set up your dining area to feel like an alfresco dining spot at a resort. Use a large umbrella, string lights, and outdoor rugs to define the space, and add outdoor heaters or blankets for cooler evenings.
• Dedicated Relaxation Space: Carve out a corner of your home dedicated purely to relaxation—be it a reading nook, yoga space, or a crafting corner. Equip it with comfortable seating, good lighting, and all the essentials for your relaxing activities.

Summer affords us a rare opportunity to indulge our childlike dreams. It invites us to slow down and literally smell the roses and we’d be foolish to let that chance slip through our fingers.

It’s worth a little effort to set up our homes in a way that makes it easier to appreciate the special moments that summer brings. These are the memories of our future.