Summer Sizzlers

Every year those first hot rays of sunshine seem to catch me by surprise. After our long winter, it seems the sun will never make an appearance, until suddenly it does, very intently and determinedly. Digging out summer clothes, I quickly realise I have nothing adequate to wear and my skin is far too pale from being covered up for nearly 9 months of the year. 

It takes a little while to get used to putting on sunscreen again, remembering to bring sun glasses and making sure little ones go outside with a hat. Of course, this change is not difficult! Winter to summer is an easy transition to make, helped along by the crackle of food on the BBQ, that cool delicious taste of wine outside and the heavenly scents from flowers in the garden and cut grass.

Inside too, our house and the way we live seem to adapt. Gone are the warm winter throws that hang over the sofa for chilly nights. The outside is brought in with us as windows and doors can be left open for much of the day. The heating is no longer turned on and the house is still warm! 

For us in the UK, summer is sadly not especially long, nor often guaranteed, so we have to relish it even more when it's here. There's always the excitement and joy of holidays and travel, but when we're home again, we need to savour those feelings. We should continue to celebrate that summery-ness in our homes and daily lives more too. 

But how can bring that sunshine inside? What can we be doing now to ensure summer lingers languidly throughout the rest of the year? Interiors right now are buzzing with ideas. Here are my 3 hot picks to get your home sizzling with the vibes of summer:

1) Mixed Materials
Transform your home accessories into works of art by finding pieces which combine wood and brass elements, geometric prints and stone. Bowls, which at first might be boring, will become beautiful coveted objects. Take this idea further and make over your walls, floors, tables. Like a breath of summer fresh air, your home will thank you for it.

2) The Colour Chartreuse
If you already have grey in your home, you're going to love chartreuse. Neither quite yellow, nor quite green, it's both warm and fresh and will add some zing to your interiors. It pops perfectly when put against grey shades or rich teals, but also looks lovely with wood and a neutral colour scheme. Add the charm of chartreuse for some summer sunshine.

3) Florals
Nothing says summer more than flowers. Abundant, beautiful blooms are back. But don't cringe and think 1980's Laura Ashley, imagine a more modern twist with supersized themes and classic colours. Our taste for pared-back and simple interiors are perfectly suited to hints of vintage blooms, wild flower fabrics and blowsy bouquets. These will remind you of happy summer days at any time of the year.