The Style of Summer

Warm summer months call for cool and casual rooms. There are several common elements that can help you achieve that look and feel in your space.

The easiest first step is to remove area rugs and heavy drapery panels, exposing easy-to-care for wood floors and flowing sheers that maximize daylight and breeze. Store your velvet accent cushions and cozy throws until October.

Now add a splash of colour with a few bright florals, fun checks and pinstipes - easily incorporated by tossing a few pillows around, and by a covering dark wood tables with cloth. Consider crisp cotton or canvas slipcovers for the larger pieces of furniture.

Opt for tables and bureaus made of pine or beech, as they are considered less formal. Even old, unfinished pieces will look great. Painted wood, iron furnishings and wicker also add to that whimsical cottage look and promote a feeling of relaxation.

Use garden accents indoors too - a grouping of lanterns with large candles can temporarily replace a table lamp. An old iron gate can be used as a screen, room divider or headboard. Urns, statuary and plants will make you feel as though you're sitting on the patio or terrace all day.

A wide range of white paint tones can freshen your walls. Creamy rich vanilla or antique white is just perfect for this season !