5 steps to a summer-ready home
Along with enjoying the warmth of dappled sunlight, balmy days and toasty nights, it’s the time to lighten and brighten your home.
‘‘Now is the time to tick off items on your to-do list rather than just a crash spring clean,’’ says professional organiser Robyn Amott from Bless this Mess.
‘‘Allocating tasks to do [now] versus winter allows us to spread tasks over the entire year, making them more achievable.’’
Here is your annual maintenance and style checklist for a house that runs like a chic and well-oiled machine all summer long.
Ditch and purge
After hibernating at home all winter, summer is the perfect time to declutter and purge, says creative director Sarah Elshaug from Maitland Interiors.
‘‘Less is definitely more in summer, so pack away all those extra winter comfort items. It provides a clean canvas that allows you to start styling again from a fresh summery perspective.’’
Dust detox
Start from the ground up, giving carpets and rugs a thorough winter detox.
‘‘Steam-cleaning rugs and carpets imparts a real feeling of renewal and freshness to any room,’’ says Amott.
‘‘It deep cleans and frees them from the dust and dirt we have trampled through our homes during the winter months. Have your air-conditioning system and filters cleaned to ensure fresh, free-flowing air, and service and clean all appliances so they are ready to go for the festive season.’’
One in, one out
Plan for a beautifully organised and streamlined home by applying the one-in-one-out rule.
‘‘For any new items that come into the home, an item of the same or similar category is moved on, sold or donated,’’ says Amott.
‘‘This allows us to maintain boundaries for each category of item.
‘‘This is particularly useful during gift-giving times throughout the year.’’
Holiday at home
Invest in creating a home that makes you feel like you’re always on holidays.
‘‘It makes for a tranquil retreat from life’s crazy adventures,’’ says Elshaug.
The easiest way to transition your home into a summer sanctuary is with a fresh, cool colour scheme.
‘‘Nothing beats crisp whites and neutrals paired with natural timbers and a hint of lush green thrown in,’’ she says.
‘‘If you thrive on colour, then layer in subtle pops of complimentary hues using accessories to liven things up. Select new artwork to complement your new season colours, and co-ordinate with fresh bed linen and soft furnishings.’’
Soft furnishing swap
Scatter cushions, throws and bed linens can instantly transform the look of any interior.
‘‘Swap out winter’s velvet scatter cushions for summery cottons and linens that are bolder in colour,’’ says interior designer Camilla Molders.
‘‘Replace cosy throw blankets for lighter-weight cotton versions in a cooler palette. I like to replace my winter bed [duvet] for a lighter version too.’’
Redress beds in natural breathable fabrics that look light and airy and feel cool to sleep in.
‘‘Luckily there is a diverse range of brands to suit various budgets so it’s an easy and accessible way to refresh your bedroom,’’ says Elshaug.