Decorating & Design
10 Designers Share Their Favorite Trends For Summer
Updated on June 24, 2021
Now that sunnier skies and alfresco dining are finally here, we’re ready to jump right into summer decorating. To find out what looks we’ll be seeing everywhere, we reached out to some of our favorite experts. From mixing old and new to curvy furniture and eat-in nooks, scroll down and see what they predict will be the best trends this summer (and beyond)!
Aly Velji On Eat-In Nooks
“Summer is for casual dining, and I have been incorporating a lot of eat-in nooks into our kitchen designs lately. I love them because they give you freedom to add in furniture pieces into your kitchen with a little more flavor. They also act as extra storage which is always a good thing, and they promote casual conversation.”
Stephanie Smith & Jenelle Erickson On Organic Elements
“This summer it is all about keeping things fresh and organic. We love working with multiple layers, textures and fabrics to exude a relaxed yet tailored feel. From light fixtures and window coverings to bedding and area rugs, mix it up by choosing from an array of natural materials that are coming in strong and are sure to last!”
Jo Smeeth On Anchoring With Black
“This summer, black accents are a popular way to bring grounding energy into a home. At the same time, they give off an electric, lively sensation. I incorporate different shades of black into every room of my own home for this reason, and more clients are getting on board with it now, too.”
Ami McKay On Smoked Glass
“I love adding smoked or textured glass to our designs. It adds interest to a material that tends to be overlooked. In this bathroom, I find the gray-toned smoked glass plays well with the black frame and fixtures, which contrasts the tile beautifully.”
Sarah Atiq On Mixing Old & New
“Expect to see vintage pieces mixed in with new items to create that warm and modern aesthetic this summer. People are craving spaces that are not only crisp and new but also cozy with a hint of nostalgia. I suggest using aged leather pieces paired with sleek modern lighting to get the perfect balance of old and new!”
Luke Havekes On Curvy Furniture
“Gone are the days of track arm sofas and basic, boring silhouettes. Unconventional upholstered pieces can add a lot to a space with their forms read more like sculpture. In this downtown Montreal condo, I used a custom mid-century-inspired kidney bean-shaped sofa in charcoal velvet and two custom-made horseshoe-shaped club chairs covered in a nubby tweed fabric.”
Michelle Martel On Big Style In Small Outdoor Spaces
“Outdoor spaces don’t need to be large to be fabulous! Our family downsized four years ago from a huge backyard in the suburbs to this tiny balcony in the city. We used double-duty furniture to maximize function and greenery to give the space Caribbean vibes all summer long.”
Susan & David Scott On Thinking Beyond Open Concept
“With the last year of people working from home, the intimate spaces in open floor plans have a renewed importance in the home. Soft nooks, cozy dining areas and window seats away from the main living areas allow for more contemplative working zones.”
Alicia Ruach On Muted Color Palettes
“I love a muted color palette that provides versatility and lightens up any room! Play with different textures and natural materials like wood, cane, linen and jute. Swap out bold colors for large-scale art pieces, geometric shapes and unique decor in muted hues to infuse your space with personality and visual interest.”
Brenda Danso On Undressed Windows
“I’m seeing more people forgo window treatments where privacy isn’t required. An unobstructed window feels welcoming and airy, and offers exposed sunlight with a boost of vitamin D.”