7 Ways to Lighten Up Your Home's Decor for the Summer Season

Flowers are blooming, gardens are flourishing, fresh air blows warmth through open windows ... all this means summer has arrived again. Longer days mean more time to tackle decorating projects that have been resting in your mind all year long. Don't procrastinate any longer; pick a weekend and get to it! Open up the windows and repaint your walls. Visit a flea market and find a great bargain on a piece of furniture that just needs a little tender loving care. Find inspiration in what's around you, whether it's the colors of your garden, shells on the beach or flavors of fresh summer fruits on a sunny day.

1. Go natural. Bring your heavy, plush cloth rug to the cleaners then pack it away for the season. In its place, lay down a simple area rug made out of a natural material like sisal or beach grass.

2. Brighten up dark moldings. If your home is full of dark wood trim and molding, think about painting it a lighter color, like white or ivory. You'll be amazed by how dramatic the change will be.

3. Berry-licious. Decorate your home with berry-themed items to capture the sights and flavors of summer. Add to the ambience with some berry-scented candles or potpourri.

4. Air it out: When opening the windows isn't enough, don't immediately resort to turning on a costly air conditioner. Try cooling off with a simple room fan. New styles aren't nearly as intrusive as the wind machines of the past.

5. Close your kitchen for season. Shut down your oven and stovetop for the warmest months of the year and grill outside or make a meal out of a refreshing salad and cold sandwiches.

6. Go green. Bring the bright colors of a sunny summer day indoors with a vibrant shade of green, such as lime, yellow-green, sage or seafoam.

7. Eat from a bed of flowers. Pretty floral patterns on plates, teacups and other dishware are perfect for summer. Pick a color from your pattern and find a tablecloth to match and keep your dining table set with your favorite chintz dishes. Or just set up a tiny side table for tea that's ready to go when summer visitors stop by.