Lighten Up This Summer

With summer now here, now’s the time to lighten up our homes and give them a much-needed breath of fresh air. Whether you’re planning a home renovation or just want to do some easy and economical updates, here are some tips to transform into a lighter and brighter breath of fresh air.

Go neutral. Neutral colour palettes are a very popular choice that many designers like us gravitate to, thanks to its versatility and broad appeal. A neutral colour palette is easy to layer up for winter and lighten up for spring. When choosing large-scale colours for your home such as wall paint, flooring and bigger furnishings like a sofa, choose muted earthy whites and cream tones.

Designer Tip: Take your neutrals a step further with a monochromatic colour palette, which can lend a lighter, more laid-back aesthetic by virtue of its simplicity. Bonus – monochromatics are also an easy way to make a room appear bigger and brighter!

Change up your fabrics. Fabrics play a critical role in the perceived and physical temperature of a home. Bring in more, natural fabrics this time of year such as linen, cottons and jute, in a lighter weave and colour palette. Bring in these textiles into your pillows, throws, window coverings and even change out your area rugs. In the bedroom and bathroom, crisp white bedding and white towels are our go-to for creating a relaxing, spa-inspired feel that instantly uplifts the soul.  Check out our latest collections of in home décor and accessories at www.shophibou.com       

Incorporate texture. If not executed thoughtfully, a neutral or monochromatic space runs the risk of falling flat. Add personality to your interiors by playing with texture and a variety of different materials. While texture is a common theme when selecting fabrics and integrated finishes such as tile or wall coverings, think outside the box and look to furniture and light fixtures as textural targets. Consider wood, wicker and straw, play with different metals, and juxtapose finishes such as glossy and matte surfaces to bring lots of visual interest and depth to your design, while maintaining the integrity of your monochromatic colour palette.

Light it up! While lighting seems like a fairly obvious addition to every room, you’d be shocked at how many people disregard its importance and the potential impact it can have on the overall ambiance. A poorly lit room can appear small uninviting.  Layer in different light sources throughout the home, incorporating ceiling fixtures, sconces and lamps in corners, tabletops and sitting areas. This will brighten up dark corners, enhance the room’s function, and highlight key points of interest such as unique architectural features, collections and artwork.

Of course, with longer sunnier days, natural light should be top of mind at this time of year. Draw open the curtains or better yet, remove them entirely if privacy isn’t a concern. While you’re focussed on your windows, go ahead and give them a good cleaning, inside and out. You’ll be amazed at how much more natural light floods your home when you remove the window grime of winter.

Tip: Enhance the natural light in your home by strategically positioning mirrors near windows. Mounting a wall mirror opposite a window will amplify the natural light and double your views! Similarly, propping a tall, vertical mirror against the wall can create the illusion on a doorway!

Welcome the beloved lazy days of summer with a home that celebrates the season in all its glory. Canadian summers are glorious but they are fleeting. Make the most of it.

Designer Eugenia Triandos, is the Principal Designer for Montreal based Hibou Design & Co.  This multi-disciplinary design firm has become known for creating  interiors that are both uniquely reflective and functional to their clients. The firm provides bespoke residential design services throughout Montreal, Ontario, & North America. www.hiboudesignco.com