Sweet Summertime
Birchview Design
We have been treated to beautiful weather so far, and it looks like it’s only going to get better and better for the hottest season of the year. It’s time to sit back, relax and enjoy our short (but oh-so-sweet) summer! Seemingly too quick, we want to make the absolute most out of this time of year, and many of us strive to carry on the summer vibes throughout the year. Within your own home, this can be accomplished with a few of our BDI tried and true methods.
Colour Texture & Shape
Our landscape is bursting with beauty in the summertime. All the colours and textures of greenery, flowers, rivers and lakes seem to be maximized by the bright, happy sun of summer. Bringing the feeling of the outdoors in is a fantastic way to evoke this feeling, regardless of the time of year. When selecting finishes for your space, opt to incorporate some cool colours, textures and shapes. Clean, straight edges mixed with soft curves are a winning combination, and one that will help give your home an elevated and polished look. Choosing a timeless base for more permanent finishes like hardwood flooring or stair and rail finishes is a good idea, and allows you to incorporate some more trendy finishes like colourful tile or fun drapery. Paint or millwork colours always look stunning in earthy tones or whites. With so many options available, many tile selections have no limitations. Smaller mosaic tiles are safe for the floor, shower base and make an amazing accent wall in the shower. Go bold and let the colours, textures and shapes of summer inspire you!
Space Planning
When you are thinking about what you want in your space, it’s best to plan with reference to the 80/20 rule. Place the most importance on what you need for your day to day. Then, where there is room, think of other design details that can serve up all the fun for the other 20% of your lifestyle. Maybe that means a sweet outdoor kitchen featuring the latest grill; a pool to beat the heat in; or a chic bar where friends and family can serve themselves for cocktail hour out on the deck. Think also about window and door placement. What will provide the easiest access to your outdoor spaces? Where will you get the best views? Depending on the style of your home, windows free of any grills or unnecessary details can frame the outside views and feel like artwork all on their own. Whatever floats your boat to make the most of summer; see what is possible to incorporate in your space (you won’t regret it!).
Beautifully Blended
With your finishes selected, it is time to think about decor. One of our favourite ways to literally bring a piece of the outside in is to take advantage of the beautiful trees and greenery that are around all summer. We love a moment of oversized branches that give an architectural look all on their own, or a simple curated gathering of greenery. Large-scale trees never go out of style and bring an organic, relaxed vibe into any space. If your lifestyle is too busy for real, consider faux and fill the base with rock or faux moss trick to make them feel more authentic. Linen and cotton textures always feel like summer, and are always a hit for throw pillows or window coverings.
Birchview Design Inc. is an award-winning interior design team serving clientele in the Kawartha Lakes, GTA, and beyond. As a full-service studio, the firm offers an all-inclusive, simplified experience with elevated design expertise. www.birchviewdesign.com Birchview Design’s 56th & Co. project is in partnership with Turnkey Construction
Photography: Ashley Adams @flashadams
