How to keep your home cool this summer
When it comes to making a wow statement in your home, most people opt for neutrals then add a pop of colour, layering up texture and design to create a perfectly styled look.
Adding some of that detail is easy – a snazzy throw here, a statement vase there, or – according to House Beautiful’s 2022 trends ideas – statement lighting, can make a world of difference.
But when it comes to style which not only looks great but does a practical job of keeping dazzling sunshine and stifling heat out, many people are scared off by what they think is a tricky process.
Here’s the low down on some magic window makeovers aimed at the DIY novice, which will fill your summer with sunshine, whatever the weather.
Dress to impress for less
A window is way more than just glass – it’s your place to watch the world go by while keeping it at bay, making your home a staycation haven that deserves a little design magic.
A few simple tricks of the trade will let you measure up then order free fabric samples (link to https://www.dotcomblinds.com/free-fabric-samples to create your own unique sense of style set for the summer season, all from the comfort of your own home.
Top tip: Using an online service cuts out the middle man, with same day dispatch and next day delivery.
Still need a little more inspiration? Here’s the DotcomBlinds guide to what’s hot and what’s not.
They call it mellow yellow …
Quite rightly! Sunshine colours simply scream summer, and a burst of vibrant yellow or sky blue is perfect for the high-traffic areas of your home, like living rooms and kitchens, where you want the wow factor alongside the practical versatility of a blind.
Top tip: These colourful pops can also brighten up pokey corners – if you have a long, dark hallway or a small box room, add a zing of zest to make it sparkle, even on a drizzly day.
Bring the outside inside with a garden room
Watch any property programme on TV and the ‘must have’ of the decade is the bi-fold door, filling open plan living and eating spaces with bright light and making a seamless blend from indoors to outdoors. Traditional patio or French doors have the same downsides, too much sun on a dazzling day, too much heat loss on cooler days and a loss of privacy if you are overlooked.
Choose a thin Venetian-style blind to nestle neatly inside the window frame, solving all those problems at the simple flick. You don’t have to sacrifice style for space, these elegant 25mm slats come in a range of colours, with mouth-watering raspberry, pistachio and sunflower joining traditional wooden and metal colourways.
Or opt for the honeycomb of a pleated blind, whichever most suits your home, simply measure, order and install within hours!
Top tip: Choose a style that looks good day or night, and that ticks all the boxes for practicality and design.
Sleep therapy in the long hot summer
Ah yes, with a glorious long hot summer comes stuffy, airless nights, especially troublesome if you have tired and fractious kids.
Choose a blackout or dimout style to give maximum style and versatility, with practical comfort.
Top tip: Don’t forget to keep the blind down during the day if bedrooms are in direct sunlight to help keep them at a comfortable temperature.
Must haves for 2022Electric cars, electric scooters, electric toothbrushes … why not electric blinds?
These heavy duty workhorses are the perfect solution for extra wide spaces, for home owners whose mobility is limited, or even where the access is tight … let the mains take the strain, and add some oomph to your roller blind.
Top tip: Add on a remote control and lie in bed in the morning and simply touch a button to see the blinds rise on another beautiful sunny morning … bliss!
Can this really all be done online?
In a word, yes! Find style advice, measuring and installation guides and free samples at www.dotcomblinds.com.