As the weather heats up, we spend more time on our patios enjoying nature – and the time spent inside we want to welcome the season into our homes. So how do we achieve that? How can our indoor living space and outdoor space become one cohesive area that’s inviting, colourful and comfortable – an oasis for summer living? Read on!

Tips to Add Colour and Natural Influences Inside Your Home

1. Plants. Beautiful flowers are an easy way to brighten any home, inside and out. A favourite trick to blend your garden and living areas is to use the same colour scheme. If you choose garden petunias in purple and white, display purple and white African violets in your living room. HINT: The same is true of upholstery/cushion patterns – match your palettes inside to outside!
2. Ceilings. Often overlooked, the ceiling is a canvas waiting for colour. Paint it pastel blue or pink or even pale stripes of colour. Try wallpapering with a classic pattern. The effect is stunning.
3. Metallics and Coloured Glass. Pick up a few glowing accessories in pewter, bronze, gold or brass and combine them eclectically. Coloured glass also reflects sunlight beautifully, creating instant summer appeal. Assemble a grouping of bright colours like purple, aqua, lime or orange – there are vases, bottles, dishes and more to choose from.
4. Drapery. While everyone else is hanging their white lace and sheers, go for colour. Keep the fabric lightweight, but opt for a cheerful floral, stripe or polka dot.
5. Furniture. You simply can’t go wrong with a single spectacular piece of bright furniture to brighten up a space. It can be as big as a sofa or as small as a pouf. A hall table, breakfast nook stools, ottoman, armoire or accent chair all make great ideas for colour-infused furniture. One bright piece is often enough, blended with your woods/neutrals.

Tips to Add Comfort and Hominess to Your Outdoor Living Space

1. Throws. Comfy cushions on outdoor furniture are a given, but what about a throw? Not only will it chase away a chilly breeze, it adds colour and texture. Consider a nubby blanket with bright stripes.
2. Neutrals. Sometimes nature provides all the colour your space needs and the best patio furniture and accessories are neutral, letting the glorious outdoors take centre stage. Black, white and weather worn greys are perfect. HINT: Choose neutral planters too – grey stone, black concrete or terra cotta – and let your flowers be the focal point.
3. Wall Hangings. A great way to create a room-like space outside is to hang a picture, maybe even right on your house. It will need to be stone or treated metal to survive the elements, ideally it should be sheltered. HINT: A mirror or giant decorative clock will look incredible.
4. Bar. Build an outdoor bar complete with funky barstools (how about metal painted bright blue?) It’s a great, cozy gathering place.
5. Lights. If your patio is covered, add sturdy (to weather storms) lamps for a feeling of home comfort. If you’d rather something more natural, add lots and lots of candles. There are many battery-operated options available now or keep a box full of tea light candle holders at easy reach when night falls.

Relax and enjoy the beauty of the season, whether you’re inside or outside. 

Tags: colour, decor, design tips, Furniture, how to, summer, trends