Hi, friends.
Summer is officially the hang-out-outside-all-weekend season. But if you live in a condo or an apartment, you might not have an outdoor space of your own to enjoy. Whether that’s the case or you’re still just not quite ready to lounge in a shared outdoor area with your neighbors, don’t worry—a few simple steps can help turn your living space into a cheerful oasis where you’ll want to relax all summer long.
Choose decorative accents made from natural materials.
Go big with a wicker sofa or small with a rattan coffee table. Either way, working natural materials into your space will do wonders to create a warm, outdoors-inspired vibe. (Tip: Don’t rule out “outdoor” furniture; it’s just as chic when placed indoors.) Other natural materials include wood, bamboo, stone, and sisal—the latter of which makes for a perfect, neutral layering rug.
Place plants throughout your space.
A windowsill. Your desk. That empty space right next to the TV. When it comes to filling your home with plants, the options are endless. Have a green thumb? Go au naturale. Not so much? Don’t be afraid to go faux—there are lots of nice-looking artificial options out there. A few pretty plants scattered here and there and you’ll feel like you’re living in a secret garden.
String up some lights.
Picture the dance floor at an outdoor wedding reception, or that dreamy urban patio where you love to sit and sip rosé. What do they likely have in common? Strands of warm, white lights. Replicate that easy-going, warm-weather atmosphere by stringing some lights up in your living room—or wherever your favorite spot is to savor a quiet moment.
Hang a few pieces of outdoors-inspired art.
Whether it’s a beach, jungle, or lakeside vibe you want to create, art can help you achieve it. Hang an oversize palm print in your favorite reading nook for major lounging-under-a-palm-tree feels. Or, create that carefree, frolicking-in-a-field feeling with a softly colored, grass-inspired piece. And of course, it’s practically impossible to go wrong with a classic beach motif.
Don’t skimp on color.
Blue skies, white clouds, green grass, and golden sunshine are hallmarks of summer. They also make for some pretty solid interior decorating inspiration. For the season, swap in throw pillows, bed linens, lightweight blankets, and other soft goods in these breezy summer hues. If your lease or HOA allows it, consider painting an accent wall, door, or built-in bookcase in one of the season’s signature shades.
Until next time,
The Brigs team
