The months before summer comes to visit us is the perfect time to give your home a fresh new look without breaking the bank. The good news is you don’t have to spend a fortune to infuse your living spaces with breezy, stylish summer vibes. Below is a practical list of budget-friendly decor changes for the living room, bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom. Each section includes affordable shopping tips, DIY ideas, and step-by-step instructions to implement the makeover. While summer isn't here yet, it's great to start early with your pre-summer makeover!
A bright living room with airy decor, light fabrics, and green plants creates a fresh summer atmosphere.
Give your living room a breezy summer facelift by swapping out heavy winter decor for light fabrics, cheerful colors, and natural touches. This change will instantly make the space feel cooler and more inviting on hot days. Here’s how to do it step by step:
Steps to Refresh Your Living Room:
Store Away Heavy Textiles: Begin by removing heavy items like thick throws, dark pillow covers, and dense winter drapes. Clearing these out will already make the room feel lighter. If you have an area rug, consider rolling up any thick, dark rugs to expose wood or tile floors for a cooler feel in summer. (Cost: $0 – you’re using what you have.)
Switch to Lightweight Fabrics: Replace heavy curtains with sheer or cotton curtains to let in more light and air. Opt for fabrics like cotton or linen for any window treatments or slipcovers – these materials help keep the room cool and laid-back in summer. If buying new curtains or covers isn’t in the budget, check thrift stores or discount outlets for affordable light-colored linens. You can also DIY simple curtain panels from lightweight fabric or even use inexpensive sheets.
Add a Pop of Color with Accessories: Bring in summer colors to perk up your living room decor. Replace neutral or dark pillow cases with bright, punchy ones – think turquoise, coral, sunny yellow, or floral prints. You don’t need to buy new pillows; just get budget-friendly pillow covers and slip them over your existing cushions. Many home discount stores sell pillow covers for just a few dollars, or you can make your own by sewing (or fabric-gluing) old fabric scraps into envelope-style pillowcases. Add a lightweight throw blanket in a coordinating color for those cooler summer evenings.
Rearrange for an Airy Layout: A completely free way to refresh the space is to rethink your furniture arrangement. Push furniture a few inches farther from the walls or rearrange seating to facilitate better airflow and a more open feel. For example, move that armchair out of the corner and angle it to face the sofa, creating an inviting conversation nook. Removing or relocating a piece of furniture that feels heavy or cluttered can open up the room significantly. Take the opportunity to clear away clutter as well store magazines, toys, or extra decor pieces that don’t scream “summer.” A cleaner, more open room automatically feels fresher.
Incorporate Natural Elements: Embrace summer by bringing the outdoors in. Houseplants are an affordable, often low-maintenance way to add life and color. Place a leafy green plant (like a pothos plant or a snake plant) in an empty corner or set a small planter on the coffee table as a centerpiece. If you don’t have a green thumb, faux plants have improved greatly and still add a lush touch – or even try filling a vase with cut flowers from your garden.
Pro tip: Gather some pretty branches, natural grasses, or dried flowers from your yard (for free!) and arrange them in a vase for a rustic summer bouquet. These natural accents instantly create a relaxing, summery vibe.
DIY Summer Artwork: Save money by crafting a bit of your own wall decor. For example, make simple art prints by framing pieces of decorative gift wrap or scrapbook paper in summer motifs (palm leaves, lemons, etc.), or press and frame some dried wildflowers. You could also create a coastal-themed display with shells and sand in a shadowbox. Another easy DIY is a summery wreath for above the mantle – try using faux greenery or even paper flowers. Doing a DIY project adds a personal touch without a high price tag. (Cost for DIY art can be under $10, using thrifted frames and materials you have on hand.)
By following these steps, your living room will feel brand new – breezy curtains at the windows, pops of color on the sofa, and greenery in the corner will transform the space into a light-filled summer retreat. And the best part: you’ve done it all on a shoestring budget by re-purposing items and adding a few affordable accents. Kick back on your refreshed sofa and enjoy the summery new view!
A bedroom with sheer white curtains, light bedding, and soft colors creates a serene summer retreat.
Transform your bedroom into a serene summer retreat that feels cool, comfortable, and inviting. The key is to lighten both the color scheme and the materials so your sleeping space stays restful even on hot nights. Follow these steps to refresh your bedroom without spending much:
Steps to Refresh Your Bedroom:
Change to Breathable Bedding: Put away the flannel sheets and thick duvets. Dress your bed in lightweight, breathable bedding like cotton or bamboo fabrics that will keep you cool at night. If you don’t want to buy a whole new set, consider just a new cotton bedspread or a thin quilt in a light color. You can often find affordable cotton sheet sets at discount retailers or end-of-summer sales. Stick to light or neutral colors for a breezy look – even a plain white cotton bedsheet can feel hotel-crisp and summery. (Tip: For an extra budget hack, check for sales on bamboo or linen blend sheets, which are moisture-wicking and great for hot weather.)
Lighten the Color Palette: Swap out any dark or warm-toned bedding and decor for light, pastel shades or crisp whites. Soft blues, pale greens, gentle yellows, or classic white all create a calm, cooling effect in a bedroom. For example, use a white or pastel duvet cover in place of a heavy-patterned one, or add pillowcases in a soothing sky blue. You can even simply flip a reversible comforter to the lighter-colored side. Repainting walls isn’t necessary, but if you’re up for a small DIY paint project, an accent wall in a pale aqua or mint can instantly freshen the room’s look. Keep the overall palette minimal and airy to promote relaxation.
Replace Heavy Curtains with Sheers: Just as in the living room, your bedroom windows will benefit from lighter window treatments. Take down blackout curtains or thick drapes (you can keep the blackout liners to reattach behind new curtains at night if needed) and hang up sheer curtains or light cotton panels. Sheer white curtains allow soft sunlight and breezes to flow through, giving the room an ethereal feel. If privacy is a concern, you can layer the sheer curtains over inexpensive blinds or lightweight privacy liners. This simple swap makes the room feel more open and summer-ready. (Budget tip: Sheer curtain panels can be found for low prices at big box stores, or re-purpose some from another room for the season.)
Declutter and Refresh Decor: Clean surfaces and a few well-chosen accents will make your bedroom more relaxing. Clear off dressers and nightstands of any clutter or heavy decor items. Store away excess knickknacks to create more visual space. Next, add a few summer-themed decorative touches: for instance, place a small vase of fresh flowers or a leafy plant on your nightstand for a touch of nature. You could also change out artwork for something more seasonal (perhaps frame a piece of calming abstract art or a beach photograph). Stringing up a strand of soft fairy lights above the headboard or along a curtain rod can bring a cozy, magical glow in the evenings - these lights are very affordable and use minimal electricity. Keep decor minimal and meaningful for a tranquil vibe.
Try a Simple DIY Upgrade: Personalize your bedroom without spending much by doing a small DIY project. One idea is to create your own headboard: for example, hang a lightweight tapestry, a macramé wall hanging, or even a series of painted wood panels behind the bed to serve as a headboard alternative. This can be far cheaper than buying a new headboard and adds character to the room. Another idea is to repaint an old nightstand or dresser in white or pastel chalk paint to give it a shabby-chic summer look. Little crafts like these make your bedroom uniquely yours without a hefty price tag. If DIY isn’t your thing, even swapping out drawer knobs for cute, inexpensive ones (think brushed brass or glass knobs) can give furniture a fresh feel.
With these steps complete, your bedroom should now feel light, cool, and restful – perfect for retreating on a warm summer day. The combination of breathable bedding, airy colors, and personal touches will not only improve the room’s look but can also help you sleep more comfortably on balmy nights. Enjoy your new summer sanctuary!
A bright kitchen with white cabinets and open shelves can be easily accented with colorful decor for summer.
Kitchens often become gathering spots, so infusing some summer cheer here can uplift the whole home. The goal is to add pops of color and clever accents that make the kitchen feel bright and lively, all while staying on budget. Don’t worry – you won’t need a full renovation, just a few strategic swaps and DIY tweaks. Here’s how to refresh your kitchen for summer:
Steps to Refresh Your Kitchen:
Declutter and Clean Surfaces: Start by giving your kitchen a good decluttering. Clear off unnecessary items from countertops to create a more open, airy feel. Put away appliances you won’t be using as much (bye-bye, slow cooker) to free up space. A tidy kitchen instantly feels fresher. Wipe down surfaces so everything sparkles – cleanliness goes a long way toward that “new” feeling without spending a dime. While cleaning, consider rearranging the countertop layout: maybe move the coffee maker to a new spot to open up a prep area, or relocate a knife block that interrupts the sightline. This small shuffle can make the space feel different and more functional.
Add Vibrant Textile Accents: An easy way to introduce color is through kitchen textiles. Swap out old dish towels, oven mitts, and placemats for ones in bright, summery colors or patterns. For example, get a few dish towels in citrus yellow or turquoise and maybe a fun tropical print hand towel for the sink. These usually cost very little (you can often find sets on sale or at discount stores). Similarly, place a cheerful tablecloth or runner on your dining table if your kitchen has one. Colorful napkins or placemats can also dress up an eating nook. These fabric touches add instant summer style and are practical as well. (Money-saving tip: If you’re crafty, buy inexpensive fabric and sew your own napkins or placemats. Or check dollar stores for budget-friendly kitchen linens.)
Bring in Summer Décor and Greenery: Incorporate a few decorative elements that evoke summer. A simple idea is to create a centerpiece with seasonal fruit – for instance, fill a bowl with bright lemons, limes, or oranges and set it on the island or table. This adds color, and you can of course use the fruit too!
Potted herbs on the windowsill are another fantastic summer addition: they add greenery, fresh scents, and handy ingredients for cooking. Try a small pot of basil, mint, or rosemary; they thrive in sunlight and are inexpensive at garden centers. If you have open shelving, display some colorful dishware or glassware that fits the summer theme – perhaps aqua blue glasses or plates with floral designs. Simply rearranging your shelves to show a few vibrant pieces (even pretty mason jars or pitchers) can make the kitchen feel more decorated.
Update Functional Items with Style: Think about items that are both useful and decorative. For example, swap your dish soap bottle for a nicer dispenser (you can find stylish reusable soap pumps for a few dollars). Decant pantry staples like pasta or lemonade mix into clear jars and line them up on the counter for a “market fresh” look. You could also hang a seasonal print or a small chalkboard on a kitchen wall and hand-write a cheerful quote or your summer menu on it. Another idea: change your chair cushions or covers if you have a breakfast bar or dining set in the kitchen. Covering chair pads with a new fabric (nautical stripes or gingham, for example) can be a simple DIY sewing project that gives the seating a fresh vibe. Little affordable changes like new quirky utensil holders or colorful mugs on a hook rack can also add charm.
Easy DIY: Upcycle and Refresh: To save money, look at what you already have and see if you can transform it. One fun DIY is to upcycle glass jars into kitchen decor. An empty pasta sauce jar can be cleaned and used as a vase for fresh flowers from the garden on your windowsill. Smaller jars can organize tea bags, spices, or even serve as casual drinking glasses. If you have an old tray, try repainting it in a bright color to use as a serving tray or coffee station base. You can also create art for your kitchen: cut out pictures from old cookbooks or print free vintage fruit illustrations and frame them for instant wall art. If your cabinets are looking tired and you have a bit of budget, consider changing the hardware – new knobs or pulls in a trendy brass or ceramic can make cabinets feel updated at a low cost.
Lastly, consider a small herb garden project: mount a few mason jars on a piece of wood, plant herbs in them, and hang it on a sunny wall – it’s decor and a fresh herb source in one, and much cheaper than buying a fancy wall planter.
By making these changes, your kitchen will feel bright, functional, and summer-fresh. The combination of decluttering, adding color, introducing plants, and showcasing some personality through decor will enliven the space. Best of all, you’ve likely spent very little by using budget stores and DIY tricks. Now enjoy cooking and gathering in your refreshed kitchen, perhaps with a cold lemonade from that bowl of lemons you so stylishly displayed!
Even your bathroom can get a summery facelift with a few quick changes. Think spa meets beach vacation – you want the room to feel fresh, bright, and relaxing. Bathrooms are usually smaller, which means a little effort goes a long way (and for little cost!). Here’s a step-by-step guide to revitalize your bathroom for summer:
Steps to Refresh Your Bathroom:
Swap in a Bright Shower Curtain: The shower curtain often takes up a large visual area in the bathroom, so changing it can instantly set a new tone. Take down any dark or heavy-patterned curtain and replace it with a bright, summery shower curtain. Look for one in a fun print (like tropical leaves, coral stripes, or a beach scene) or simply a lighter color that complements your scheme. You can find affordable shower curtains at discount home goods stores or online; even a solid white or aqua curtain can make the room feel more open. If you have glass shower doors instead, hang a decorative curtain on the outside just for the season, or decorate with removable decals for a pop of color. This one change can lift the mood of your bathroom significantly.
Introduce Summer Colors with Towels and Rugs: Just like with other rooms, color does wonders here. Bring in a set of fresh towels in a coordinating summer color palette – for instance, crisp white towels paired with a couple of accent hand towels in teal or sunny yellow. Towels are often on sale during summer, and even a few new hand towels can brighten up your towel rack. Likewise, change out the bath mat for something more vibrant or with a lighter texture.
A quick-drying cotton rug in a stripe or geometric pattern can add interest (make sure it has a non-slip backing or use a rug gripper underneath). By focusing on textiles, you not only add color but also that soft, spa-like feel underfoot. Roll up a few spare towels or washcloths in a basket for a luxury hotel touch that costs nothing extra if you already own them.
Add Natural and Spa-Inspired Touches: To give your bathroom a relaxing summer spa vibe, incorporate nature and simple decor. For example, place a small potted plant on the vanity or a shelf – many plants (like peace lilies or ferns) thrive in the humidity of a bathroom and help purify the air. If sunlight is an issue, even a realistic faux plant or a vase of dried eucalyptus can do the trick. Consider changing your soap dispenser and toothbrush holder to ones with a bamboo or wood look, or go coastal with glass and shells inside.
Another idea: put out a dish of seashells or a jar filled with scented bath salts as decor. Such details evoke the beach and bring serenity. Keep surfaces fairly clear; just display a couple of these accents to avoid clutter. Functional decor like stylish storage baskets can both organize your toiletries and enhance the look– for instance, use a small wicker basket to hold toilet paper rolls or rolled hand towels for an aesthetic and useful detail.
Refresh the Scent (Candles or Diffuser): Scent is a subtle but powerful way to change the atmosphere. Bring in a summer fragrance to your bathroom to make it feel like a getaway. You could use a scented candle with notes of citrus, coconut, or ocean breeze, or set up a simple reed diffuser with essential oils (lemongrass, lavender, or jasmine are great summer picks). Switching up your home’s scent for the season introduces new notes that fit the warmer months. Light the candle in the evening for a spa-like glow during a relaxing bath, or let the diffuser gently scent the room all day. (Remember to never leave candles unattended, especially in the bathroom.) This small touch engages the senses and costs very little – many quality candles and diffusers are available at budget stores or you can DIY a diffuser with essential oils and reeds.
DIY a Personalized Bath Mat or Accessory: For a fun and thrifty project, try creating something for your bathroom yourself. One easy DIY is a homemade bath mat. For example, you can cut old towels or cotton t-shirts into strips and braid or knot them into a rag rug, or even use an old woven placemat as the base and add a non-slip backing. According to experts, making your own bath mat out of repurposed materials is a fun project that adds a personal touch to the space.
Another idea is to frame some inexpensive artwork or print out a summery quote (“Hello Sunshine” in a cute font) to hang on the wall – since bathroom art is small, you can often use dollar store frames and free printables. If you have a plain mirror, consider edging it with self-adhesive decorative tiles or even seashells you’ve collected, for a unique coastal frame. These DIY touches cost very little and make your bathroom feel one-of-a-kind.
By following these steps, your bathroom will go from basic to bright and refreshing. A new splash of color from the shower curtain and towels, a hint of nature and scent, and a clever DIY or two will create a summery retreat you’ll enjoy every morning. And none of it requires expensive renovations – just creative swaps and budget finds. Step into your “new” bathroom and enjoy the calm, cool ambiance perfect for the summer season.
Final Tips: When redecorating for summer on a budget, always start with what you have – can you re-purpose or rearrange something instead of buying new? Small changes like moving furniture, swapping covers, or adding plants can make a big impact for very little money. Shop smart at thrift stores, clearance sales, or even your own storage bins. And don’t shy away from DIY; even simple crafts can save money and give your home a personal, stylish touch. With the room-by-room tips above, you can achieve a refreshing summer makeover throughout your home without overspending. Enjoy your stylish, budget-friendly summer decor!
