The Art of Summer Refresh: Simple Decor and Furniture Updates, Big Impact

Lake cottage decor

There’s something about summer that makes you want to shake things up. Maybe it’s the golden light filtering through the windows, or the way warm air invites you to linger longer at home with iced tea in hand. Whatever it is, this season has a way of whispering: refresh, reset, reimagine.

You don’t need to renovate your entire home. Sometimes, all it takes is a shift in energy—and a few thoughtful changes—to bring in that summer magic.

Let’s talk about the art of the summer refresh: simple updates to decor and furniture that make your space feel brand new.

1. Start with a Mood, Not a Shopping List

Before you rush out to buy new pieces, pause. What does summer feel like to you? Is it minimalist and breezy, like a lake cottage? Or is it wild and rustic, like a lodge getaway? Setting a mood helps guide your choices so everything feels intentional.

Try this: Create a mini summer mood board on Pinterest. Use it to inspire color palettes, textures, and layout ideas.

2. Furniture Flip: Rearrange Before You Replace

Summer is about ease and flow. Move your sofa to face a window. Pull your favorite reading chair into a sunny corner. Even swapping two pieces between rooms can spark new life.

Pro tip: Angle a chair near your canoe bookshelf and add a light throw and small Caledonia

Caledonia End Table

end table—voilà, a summer reading nook is born.

3. Let Natural Textures Lead

This is the season to lean into texture. Think rattan, jute, linen, seagrass, and light woods. These materials add warmth without weight—and instantly evoke a relaxed, summery feel.

Quick updates:

• A woven basket for magazines, blankets, or bling

• A dining table and chairs stained "natural"

• A wood frame mirror to bounce around that summer light

4. Color Cues: Think Soft & Sun-Kissed

You don’t have to repaint walls or overhaul your furniture. Instead,

Abstract Faith Based Wall decor

bring in summer’s palette with accents. Switch out cushions, coasters, or wall art in colors like terracotta, muted green, ocean blue, or even a splash of mango yellow.

Fresh idea: Frame pressed flowers or leaves for a seasonal DIY wall art project.

5. Your Outdoor Space, Elevated

If you have a balcony, patio, or even a doorstep, give it some love. It doesn’t take much to turn it into your favorite summer hangout.

Essentials:

• A comfy outdoor chair or two

• A string of outdoor lights or lanterns

• A plant or herb in a pretty pot

• A lightweight throw for cooler evenings

Bonus: Add a Bluetooth speaker and you’ve got a personal summer lounge.

Angled Settee chairs

6. Summer Scent Matters

Scents have a powerful effect on mood. Swap out heavy candles or diffusers for something

pink lemonade candle

lighter—like citrus, coconut, basil, or sea salt. It’s a subtle but powerful way to invite summer indoors.

7. Celebrate the Summer Decor & Furniture Simplicity

The best part about a summer refresh? It’s not about perfection—it’s about creating a space that feels alive and in sync with the season. Let your home reflect the joy of longer days, impromptu dinners, and the calm that only comes with letting go of excess.

So open the windows. Let the breeze in. Play your favorite summer playlist. And as the light changes, let your home transform with it.

Because sometimes, a little shift in your surroundings is all you need to feel re-energized, re-inspired, and ready to savor the season.

~revised by Katherine

P.S. The best kind of "refreshing" is the kind that comes from the Holy Spirit. He is ready to fill and refresh us as believers when we are weary, or sad, or confused with life. Victory in living comes through Spirit-filled life!