Summer Interiors Self-Mailbag

It's time for another seasonal self-mailbag! For those of you new to the idea, these are all of the questions that I think need answering, so I've asked myself! If you have an extra question of your own, feel free to ask in the comments section below!

Q:Which colours are in fashion this Summer?

A: The beauty of summer is that every colour is in fashion! Summer is a season in which you can truly express yourself and get creative with some of your favourite colours. Remember to leave enough white or natural space to serve as a simple backdrop; too much colour, without adequate neutrality, can be migraine inducing.

Q:I don't want to re-decorate my entire home every few months, which styles are actually going to last?

A: It's always tough trying to make your home work with the current styles, without restricting its future development. I've always been of the opinion that an interior, after its initial creation, is something which must develop organically. If you like a particular style or trend, then feel free to integrate it into your interior. Otherwise, you'll end up change your interior a few times a year and never really capture any sense of satisfaction with the process.

Q:How can I create a continuity between my outdoor terrace/garden and my interior?

A: I know we usually only deal with interiors, but we'll make an exception for summer. Creating a great interior requires a continuity or 'flow' between every room in the home, creating one big interior, as opposed to several smaller ones. The most commonly made mistake is to confuse creating continuity with giving your home one constant theme. Creating a flow within the home can be a simple continuation of colour, shape, style or influence; this is also true of your outdoor areas. Using the same colour, or drawing inspiration from similar places to your interior will extend your interior out into the wild!

Q:What are some good 'quick fixes' for creating a cooling indoor environment?

A: To name but a few: Removing all rugs, keeping curtains drawn whilst you're at work, open some doors and windows, stone floors, exposed floorboards and the use of cool colours are all great ways to cool things down during the hottest days.

Q:One of the best things about summer is the amount of daylight hours. How can I make the most of natural light in my home?

A:Natural light can give your home the kind of energy and atmosphere that just can't be created out of a bulb. The amount of natural light you receive is partially out of your control (position of your home, weather etc), but that doesn't mean there isn't plenty you can do to emphasise and utilise what you do have. Positioning of mirrors is a fantastic method of reflecting and refracting light, resulting in the illusion of more light. You can't make the most of light that can't get into your home, which gives curtains the clear edge over blinds. Blinds look great, but will always block a certain degree of light, which is honestly the last thing you want during the summer months.

Q: How can I accessorise my home if it needs a few finishing touches?

A: Accessorising can be particularly difficult in the Summertime. Most home accessories, such as cushions and blankets, are designed to add a homely comfort to a contemporary interior. In this instance, that 'cosiness' is the last thing you need. Try accessorising using brightly coloured sculpture, eye-catching contemporary wall clocks or fresh flowers in order to better utilise the space, whilst emphasising the colour of summer.

Q:I want my furniture to look good for Summer, but also to last a long time! Thoughts?

A: Solid wood furniture is usually the best way to achieve longevity as well as aesthetics. Smooth, balanced contemporary designs will ensure a timeless simplicity. Oak and Teak, with their rich and nourished grains, are great for creating a beautiful juxtaposition between natural wood and contemporary design. Although well known for traditional furniture, oak has been given a new lease of life by Europe's top contemporary furniture designers, so don't be put off!