Sometimes it seems like home decor is on a mission to outdo itself. Bigger! Brighter! Bolder! And that’s especially true in summer when we gravitate toward vibrant colors and funky looks meant to make a statement.
Not this year, though. This season, you’ll want to dial things down, because the traditional and homey decor is trending in a big way. This summer’s headline reads, “Trad Is Rad!” with the return of maximalism, there’s a renewed interest in the traditional aesthetic.
But this doesn’t mean you’re stuck with putting Victoria lounge chairs on your patio. After all, there are all kinds of decorative traditions, from all over the world and some look surprisingly modern. The common strand is that they’ve stood the test of time, meaning there is less chance of decorator’s remorse.
No one wants to redo a room only to have it feel dated in a few short years. So if you are ready to give your space a (classic) refresh take a look at the biggest summer decor trends and how to incorporate them in your space.
Block Print Decor
Block print, also know as woodblock printing, is the process of printing patterns on fabrics using incised wooden blocks. The method date back centuries, in fact, it’s the earliest method of textile printing. And after years of modern, bold (and arguably tacky) prints, the handprinted look of block print is making a comeback.
Block print is a classic look that works well in both bohemian and preppy designs with its handprinted, imperfect patterns and classic color combos. We are seeing block print everywhere we turn this season: on bedding, upholstery, window treatments, and even printed and pleated lampshades.
Four-Poster Beds
If you’ve ever dreamed about sleeping in a bed fit for royalty, now’s your chance. Four-poster beds are popular again!
Not into the whole princess-look? There are modern versions that are just right for your 21st-century bedroom. Four-poster beds aren’t just for your grandmother anymore. These stately beds are back and while the canopied and curtained versions are heating up, we’re also seeing some four-posters left completely bare or adorned with low-profile fabric panels or flat fabric tops sans curtains, for a more modern twist. Draping fabric around your four-poster and letting it blow in the breeze is also a dreamy way to celebrate summer.
Organic Materials
With the meteoric rise of modern farmhouse decor, rustic furniture is hardly a new addition to our home decor. However, this summer is doubling down on the natural look with pieces made from organic materials and that have unique textures. From rustic woodwork that leaves live edges and characterized knots exposed, to natural stone accessories that balance soft textures in a space, bringing natural elements into the home can create an organic style that provides balance, warmth, and comfort.
Whether you’re embracing a traditional aesthetic or prefer a more modern design, organic materials can still work in your space. Plus you can feel good knowing that your sustainable furniture is better for the environment as well.
Outdoor Funiture That’s Just As Comfy as Indoor Funiture
It’s time to toss your old, strappy foldable lounger and trade up to something much cozier. Gone are the days of uncomfortable patio furniture. Your sofa outside should be just as comfortable as your sofa inside, so curling up with a good book or lounging while you watch the kids play is just as enjoyable outdoors as it is inside.
Even though a plush couch will cost you a lot more than just that rusty metal lounger, remember this: If you have more comfortable outdoor furniture, you’ll be more likely to spend more time outdoors. So consider it an investment.
Seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor living creates a very livable space that is perfect for making the most of summer days.
Beige That’s Anything But Basic
In summers past you might have tried to incorporate tons of colors to brighten up your space. But this year you might appreciate sticking with a neutral palette – one that includes plenty of beige.
You can thank the fashion world for this turn back to a traditional neutral: Khaki and beige have been popping up on runways this season, and that’s influencing interior design colors as well. Beige is a beautiful color to work with, and you can easily incorporate varying tones of this color into your home to highlight its true beauty. If you build in natural materials, like linen, you get an earthier feel, or you can incorporate this color through art, objects, and vases to bring forth an elevated and inviting look.
Plus, while other colors are considered “trendy,” beige is a classic choice that will last a lifetime. Too neutral for you? Just add accent colors and switch them out as the seasons change.