SUMMER NIGHTS
Struggling with these hot, stuffy nights? GABRIELLE FAGAN reveals how to turn down the heat with soaring style
Create the perfect chill-out zone with the coolest bedroom decor schemes for summer
The long, hot days of summer call for a light touch in the bedroom. When the temperature’s rising, an unfussy, uncluttered space can help you feel cooler, and even simple changes – like replacing heavy drapes with floaty fabrics like voiles, and using cotton or linen bedlinen – will all add to the relaxed vibe.
Choose from one of these three looks for a warm-weather bedroom makeover, and create the perfect chill-out zone... “Even with the scorching temperatures outside, the right choice of textiles, accessories and plants will help create a relaxing and cool bedroom,” says Ali Szalinska, director, Dekoria (dekoria.co.uk).
“The concept of bringing the outside in, with greens, natural textures and lots of house plants, has stolen our hearts this season – for a very good reason! Natural colours have a calming effect on the mind and plants help oxygenate the air, which aids restful sleep.
“To make the most of this trend, remember to add succulents, fern, ivy and snake plants for their air-enhancing properties,” Ali adds.
“Don’t be afraid to mix real plants with faux ones to create your very own easy-to-maintain urban jungle, especially if you want to minimise watering, or would like green touches in dark areas, where real plants would struggle. “Adding large botanical prints is a fabulous way to make an instant style statement, and we’ve drawn inspiration from tropical beach palms for our bold cushions and blind. Ensure the rest of your accessories are in neutral shades like pale grey, and keep the space uncluttered so those statement pieces shine.”
■ TIP: colours absorb the heat and light colours reflect it, so opt for whites and pale pastel colours for bedding, in soft cotton or breathable linen.
The White Company’s desirable range includes the Camborne Bed Linen Collection, in a luxurious 400 thread count Egyptian cotton sateen in a soft oyster shade: Oxford pillowcases, from £30; Duvet cover, from £100, and flat sheet, from £60, The White Company.