Sunday 27 March 2011

Hello Summer!

Summer is almost here. For those of us in New Delhi, the sun is already quite harsh. But we still have a few weeks before things really get 'hot', and now is a great time to look around your house and summer-ize.

Here are some great ideas:

Keep It Light: This is my pet subject, but we all know consciously or unconsciously that the most important aspect of any living space is really the colour scheme. So if you have been indulging in the plums, reds, purples and dark blues in terms of curtains and covers, it is now time to bring them down or take them off. some suggestions for the summer: lime greens, pale  blues, baby pink, lavender and good old white used individually or mixed and matched can give your room, apartment or house a summery feel instantly.

Blinds: I'm a big fan of natural blinds made of bamboo or jute. If your house is particularly bright and tends to get very hot in the afternoons, a very easy solution is to get cutom made blinds made, either with the natural material like bamboo or just with thick weather resistant cloth material. fold them up early in the mornings and evenings to get in the fresh air and let them down in the afternoons to cut out the sun.

Carpets: This can be quite a chore, but indeed the heavy duty carpetting that works during the winter can actually bog down your spirits in the summer. Roll them up and better still just send them to the cleaners for the next season. Instead, get in light rugs in cheerful summery colours coordinated with your curtains and cushions and throws. This can actually transform your house.

Water: It can get very difficult to relax during a scorching summer...even with your airconditioning on, the heat can drain you. Keep your energy levels high and your interiors tranquil at the same time by bringing home a fountain. The gurgling water sound can soothe your senses as well as serve as a natural humidifier for you house.

Cotton Time: Silks, polyesters or velvets have to go now. Bring in cottons and linen for bed covers, sheets and throws. Summer is about natural material, basic colours and clean and fresh living spaces. So enjoy all things natural over the next couple of months, until monsoon rings in.

House Plants: This is also a good time to trim some of the potted ferns or palms that is growing out side of your house, shift them into pretty pots and bring them in.

In brief, just bring down and fold up and keep away anything that is too ornate and heavy. Bring in light colours, hapy prints, cool designs and turn the look of your living space around to a create a breezy feel. That could help you cool down a few degrees when the mercury hits the 40s. You will thank me for it.

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