7 Top Tips for Styling Your Apartment This Summer

There’s something about the warmer months that calls for a refresh. Whether you’re relaxing at home, hosting friends or simply craving a change of scenery without the price of a holiday, now is the perfect time to give your apartment a summer upgrade.  

Your home should reflect how you want to live, and where better to draw some inspiration than from the feel-good, laid-back energy of summer. At NHG Homes, we want all our residents to live comfortably and stylishly, so here are our top tips for styling your space this season, with simple updates that make a big impact.

1. Lighten Your Colour Palette

One of the easiest ways to update your home for summer? Swap out those moodier, winter tones for something a little lighter. Think soft whites, fresh olive greens or warm neutrals to help your space feel open and airy.

Try:

• Changing cushion covers to linen or cotton in lighter shades.

• Switching throws and bedspreads for cooler tones.

• Painting a feature wall or adding light-toned artwork.

These changes work beautifully in open-plan living areas, where a fresh palette can instantly lift the space and reflect more natural light.

2. Add Fresh Plants and Flowers

Indoor greenery can be overlooked, but it can bring a lot of life and movement to your space. Whether it’s a few potted herbs in the kitchen or a large statement plant in the living room, bringing nature indoors an easy way to update your apartment décor. 

Try: 

• Putting some fresh flowers on your coffee table for a burst of colour.

• Adding succulents to your windowsills or bookshelves.

• Low-maintenance plants like snake plants, peace lilies, or a cactus.

Plus, indoor plants are great for air quality and giving your apartment a feel-good summer vibe.

3. Switch to Summer Textiles

Just as you swap jumpers for T-shirts in your wardrobe, your home deserves a seasonal fabric switch, too. Lighter materials can make your apartment feel cooler and cleaner. 

Try:

• Replacing heavy curtains with more sheer or voile options.

• Choosing cotton or linen bedding for a fresher night’s sleep when the weather gets warmer.

• Adding a patterned throw or textured cushion in a bold, summery shade.

If you’re decorating a one-bedroom apartment on a budget, these swaps are perfect if you’re looking for low effort, high impact.

4. Declutter and Curate

Summer is all about keeping things light, not just in colour, but in clutter too. A summer declutter can go a long way towards helping you feel in control, more relaxed, and prouder of your space.

Try: 

• Clearing surfaces of excess objects and leave only your favourite items on display.

• Use baskets or decorative boxes to neatly store any bits and bobs.

• Curate your bookshelf or coffee table with a few seasonal touches like beachy candles or your favourite summer reads.

For apartment décor, less is often more. These small edits can help your space feel calm and intentional.

5. Refresh Tables and Surfaces

Your dining or coffee table can be just as much of a styling opportunity as it is a functional surface. Adding seasonal touches can lift the space and create an inviting feel for you and your guests.

Try:

• Lightweight table linens or runners in natural fabrics.

• Coloured glassware or ceramics in summery tones.

• Bowls of citrus fruits or simple flower arrangements as centrepieces.

Even small touches like playful coasters or a new table tray can make a difference.

6. Maximise Natural Light

Longer days mean more natural light, so why not make the most of it? Bright spaces feel more open and energising, helping to lift your mood and create a fresh, summery vibe throughout your home.

Try: 

• Rearranging furniture to avoid blocking windows.

• Using mirrors to reflect light and open up smaller rooms.

• Swapping heavy curtains for lighter alternatives to boost brightness and airflow.

In new-build apartments, which often feature large windows and open layouts, this tip can make your space shine. 

7. Add Natural Materials and Summer Scents

If you want to go a step further with your summer styling, consider bringing in natural textures and scents to engage all the senses. 

Try: 

• Rattan baskets, terracotta vases, or jute rugs for an earthy texture.

• Scented candles or diffusers with summer fragrances like citrus or fig.

• Soft, warm-toned lighting for chilled summery evenings indoors. 

Combined, these elements can help to make your apartment feel like a true retreat.

Ready to Style Your Summer Sanctuary?

Whether you’re decorating a studio apartment, upgrading your one-room apartment décor, or just looking for easy seasonal swaps, refreshing your décor for the season doesn’t need to be stressful and time-consuming.

Looking for inspiration? Visit one of our NHG Homes show apartments or browse our online galleries to see how we style our homes for everyday living. And don’t forget to follow us on social media for more decorating ideas and styling tips.