Late Summer Refresh

by ERIN SHARPLIN LOVE
erinlove@panachebyerin.com

Here we are again… the end of summer! By this point, you’ve lived with months of open windows, extra foot traffic, vacations, various gatherings and long, sunny days. Naturally, things have probably started to feel a little worn out and dusty. Some of your summer decorations may seem out of place and boring while clutter has started collecting in your most-used spaces.  Refreshing your space now will give you a clean slate for the start of the new school year and will preempt any stress that could be caused by a stale and disorganized home. Let’s get started!

Declutter the Decorations

Walk through your home and look at your flat surfaces – coffee table, kitchen counter, bookshelves, nightstand, etc. Are they completely covered?  Too many decorations often create a visual “noise” that will translate into clutter.  Instead, we want to create a calm atmosphere that feels intentional. Choose a few pieces you genuinely love and fit the season.  For instance, in August I like to decorate with hydrangeas, birds, squirrels, acorns, and other pieces that bring the outside in.  

Give Every Room a Proper Cleaning 

While spring is the traditional time to do a deep clean, I actually prefer doing it at the end of summer and into the fall.  There is just something about starting with a (literal) clean slate at the beginning of a school year.  A clean room naturally feels brighter, newer, and more inviting without changing a single element. Go room by room cleaning windows, doors, walls and floors. Don’t forget the baseboards.

Rearrange Your Furniture

One of the easiest ways to refresh your home is by simply using what you already have but in new and different ways!  Furniture often stays where it lands upon moving into the home, but you are missing out on opportunities by staying stuck! Try pulling furniture a few inches away from a wall or swap side tables between different rooms.  Move a lamp or angle a chair.  Small adjustments can make your space feel brand new again.  

Refresh the Color Story

The end of summer calls for softer, warmer colors that will transition into the fall season seamlessly.  As with your decorations, think of bringing the outside in!  Use natural colors like greens, beiges, and browns. Now is the time to change your pillows, bedding, and blankets.

Light Your Way

Lighting is probably the most underutilized decorating tool. Consider layering different light sources such as natural light, candles, and ambiance lighting.  During the day, I like to open all curtains and blinds to let the natural light in.  For the evening, instead of relying on harsh overhead lighting, turn on lamps and other warm accent lighting. Don’t forget to add candles (real or battery-operated) to your spaces, too! There is just something so relaxing about candlelight.

Refresh Bookshelves

Bookshelves often become overlooked and end up looking stagnant and cluttered. Family photos, souvenirs, candles, baskets, books, and signs end up squeezing together to become dust magnets. Now is the time to remove each piece, clean the area and replace items that fit the season and are truly loved. Mix vertical and horizontal stacks while still leaving space between.  Add trailing plants and use varying heights to create interest and movement.  

Give Your Entryway Extra Attention

The entryway sets the tone for your entire home so treat it to a little TLC. Change your doormat, wipe down your door, clear clutter, and add greenery for a welcome that will be remembered. Don’t forget to add a scent to this area. Whether through candles or a diffuser, you want your home to smell good to all who enter. Now is the time to start adding more fall-centered aromas to your spaces.  

I can’t wait to start the new school season with a fresh, clean, and organized home. I hope you feel the same!