It's definitely a no-brainer that summer is the season for embracing warmth, relaxation, and the beauty of the outdoors—an unbeatable feeling of refreshment and restoration.

That said, here at McLain by Design Interiors, we believe that your interior should echo the carefree spirit of the season, becoming a serene haven where sunshine spills over every surface. We can help infuse your home with seasonal style using just a few clever tricks—from using natural materials to bringing fresh blooms indoors, we love to create a space that lets you celebrate the laid-back charm of living in the summer sun.

The Versatility of Rattan, Wicker, and Seagrass

Natural textures are the hallmark of summer interiors, and none are more iconic than rattan, wicker, and seagrass. These materials embody the season's essence with their light, airy feel while offering impressive versatility and durability.

Rattan

Rattan is a tropical palm-like plant characterized by its vine-like stems that are both sturdy and lightweight, making it a favorite for crafting all kinds of furniture. From chairs and tables to loungers, rattan lends itself to designs that marry elegance with functionality.

Its natural golden hue adds warmth and charm to spaces while allowing designers to create sleek or elaborate shapes that remain durable and supportive. The pliability of rattan also makes it ideal for curves and bends, offering ergonomic comfort.

Wicker

Wicker, a weaving technique often using rattan, enhances the appeal by shaping intricate furniture and baskets. The weaving technique provides visual depth, creating patterns and textures that catch the eye. Furniture made from wicker offers the appearance of movement and flow, while smaller items like baskets, trays, and planters can be used to organize and beautify a space. The airy weave keeps the furniture breathable, perfect for warm-weather lounging. Wicker’s ability to pair well with textiles and other materials provides endless design possibilities.

Seagrass

Seagrass, on the other hand, brings an earthy feel and a distinct coastal vibe that is both inviting and calming. It’s especially ideal for rugs and storage baskets due to its thick, fibrous texture. Seagrass rugs offer a soft, breezy layer underfoot, inviting you to walk barefoot through the season.

Their neutral tones blend seamlessly into any palette, while the natural fibers are resilient, making them great for high-traffic areas. Storage baskets made from seagrass are not only practical for tidying up but also add a warm, organic touch that complements any decor.

Together, these materials enhance aesthetics by grounding designs in their raw, organic beauty. Rattan chairs create inviting seating arrangements, while wicker baskets are excellent for storing fresh flowers or fruit, adding a splash of color. Seagrass rugs lay the foundation for a soft, neutral palette, great for the season's relaxed spirit. These natural textures infuse spaces with warmth and enduring style that effortlessly adapts to both indoor and outdoor settings, ensuring your summer home feels like a refreshing oasis all season long.

Bringing the Outdoors In

Summer is synonymous with blooming gardens and lush greenery, making it the perfect time to invite these natural elements indoors. Incorporating fresh flowers and greenery creates a sense of vitality and adds a splash of color to any room. Foraging for blooms or selecting them from a local market can be a joyful activity in itself, while arranging them artistically is an art form that brings the entire home to life. Here's how you can effectively bring the outdoors in:

Large Statement Blooms

• Place eye-catching arrangements in vases or jars strategically in living rooms and kitchens.

• Peonies, sunflowers, and dahlias are great choices, offering bold colors and fresh scents.

Smaller Bouquets

• Brighten up nightstands, entryways, and bathrooms with more compact bouquets.

• Seasonal blooms like sweet peas or lilies work well in mason jars, bud vases, or small pottery.

Potted Plants

• Provide long-lasting greenery that is easy to care for.

• Ferns offer lush textures, while succulents bring appealing shapes and low maintenance.

• Use hanging planters to add visual interest at higher levels, or repurpose wicker baskets as plant holders.

• A plant wall can maximize visual impact while saving floor space.

Mix Textures

• Metal planters provide a contemporary touch.

• Clay pots contribute rustic charm.

• Seagrass baskets blend seamlessly with neutral tones and a coastal vibe.

• Experiment with different containers to create dynamic displays that amplify each plant's natural beauty.

Fresh Fragrance

• Incorporate aromatic flowers like lavender, roses, or jasmine for calming scents.

• Fresh florals invigorate spaces, providing a natural freshness that embodies summer.

Whether you’re filling the room with vivid floral displays or adding a touch of green with a single potted plant, welcoming nature indoors will surely revitalize your summer living experience!

Adding a Pop of Summer to the Front Door

An inviting entryway speaks volumes, especially during the sunny months when guests and neighbors are more likely to drop by. To make your front door a cheerful focal point reflecting the lively energy of summer, consider updating it with seasonal wreaths and accents. A simple switch of your wreath can instantly signal a new season.

For a personalized touch, DIY wreaths offer endless possibilities for creativity. Start by gathering natural materials like grapevine branches, twine, and seashells to craft a unique base, then layer on summery accents such as sunflowers, eucalyptus sprigs, or faux fruit. Adding bright ribbons or nautical-themed ornaments provides a playful touch. To achieve a cohesive look, coordinate your wreath with a doormat, or complement it with potted plants and lanterns around the entrance. This approach will make your entryway even more inviting and inject it with summer's welcoming spirit.

Conclusion

Bringing summer's laid-back charm into your home starts with natural elements like rattan, wicker, and seagrass. They not only capture the season’s warmth but also provide a flexible design foundation that works for both indoor and outdoor living. Embrace the beauty of nature with fresh flowers and greenery, letting the vivid hues of summer bloom across your space. Finally, a welcoming entryway with cheerful wreaths and accents will set the tone for your guests, inviting them into a home where the spirit of summer shines through in every corner. 

With these simple yet impactful design tips from McLain by Design Interiors, you can easily transform your home into a tranquil sanctuary that celebrates the joys of the season!

READY TO BRING YOUR SPACE TO LIFE?

Our ultimate goal is to help you create a nurturing home environment where you can thrive – a true sanctuary. We firmly believe that your home should be a haven, and we are committed to transforming that belief into reality. Together, let's design spaces that nurture and ignite inspiration in your everyday life! Inquire here to learn more!