Friday the 21st June is the Summer Solstice which marks the longest day of the year. If you have planned that life style move it means we are half way through the year and perhaps your property has been on the market for a while without selling. If you have children you probably want them to start their new school in September so time is getting tight. One of the tell tale signs of a property that has been on the market for a long time is photos that were taken at a different time of year – the classic example is the photo that features the Christmas tree or snow in Spring or Summer. Dressing your home in a way that is appropriate to the season and having fresh photos taken is an excellent way to generate more interest. Here are some easy ways to update the look of your property and some suggested pieces.
Window Treatments
It is always important to ensure that you get as much natural light into your property as possible. In contrast to winter months you want a fresh airy feel rather than that cosy hunker down feel. For Summer, substitute heavy drapes for curtains in light fabrics and colours. Opt for simple treatments such as an eyelet or tab top style rather than swags and pelmets. This change will instantly make a room feel bright and airy. These Kaolin voile panels in Natural from John Lewis would fit the bill perfectly, although they are plain they have an attractive weave.
Soft Furnishings
Soft furnishings such as cushions, throws and bedding are a very simple and cost effective way to make seasonal changes to your décor. If you already have a property in mind choose pieces that you would like to have in your new home. If you are not yet sure of the style of your property or colour scheme then chose accessories that aren’t going to break the bank. My “go to” brands for budget accessories are Dunelm Mill, The Range and Matalan. When styling your home in summer look for lightweight fabrics in natural fibres such as cotton and linen. You want a summery colour palette and at the moment ochre, grey and blush pink are very popular. This Alisha duvet set, cotton dot throw and Balmoral thistle cushion are all from Dunelm.
I also recently found a fabulous selection in Marks & Spencer which I have my eye on for my next project. Check the condition of any houseplants and get rid of any that have died. Treat yourself to some new ones and a bunch of seasonal flowers is a final touch.
The Garden
When styling your home for summer don’t neglect your outside space especially your entrance, first impressions really do count. It’s time to refresh your hanging baskets and any planters. Any garden centre will have a selection of plants for tubs and hanging baskets. Petunias, geraniums and begonias are all very colourful and you can either go for a basket planted with all the same plants to create an impact or use a mixture of colour and foliage. It’s great fun creating your own but if you don’t have time or aren’t sure how to put one together you can buy them ready planted. Architectural shrubs such as box or bay trees are always stylish but replace them if they are looking past their best. Such shrubs are an investment but remember then can always move with you.
In summary, swap heavy curtains for lighter ones, add accessories in summery fabrics and colours and refresh the outside space. Once you’ve made these updates don’t forget to ask your estate agent to arrange for some new photos to be taken so that your property’s listing can be refreshed and generate some new interest to get you sold and on your way. Still not sure? Call me on 07745 876182 or email me at info@homestyle4u.com and I’ll do it all for you. I cover Wirral, Cheshire and the North West