Summer Stay Cool Idea #58: Redecorate

With temperatures blazing across the U.S., everyone is looking for ways to stay cool this summer.  Sure, the top of the list includes activities such as relaxing at the pool (beach/lake/sprinkler), spending time with friends, and going on vacation.  It may be way down the list, but don’t overlook the cooling effect of decorating!

Decorating may be the most underrated means of cooling off.

Yes, decorating may just be one of the most underrated ways to cool off.  And the best part is that afterward you’ll have something to show for it—from a new sofa to some fresh decorating ideas.

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Get Out, Stay Cool

Let’s start with the idea of furniture shopping. When summer is at its hottest, going to the mall is always a good idea—so why not the furniture store? It’s cool there too, and you’re always welcome. You may even be greeted with cookies, popcorn or a cold beverage—you won’t find that at The Gap!

Whether you’ve got a purchase planned in your near future or not, home furnishings stores are a great place to visit when the heat index climbs. If you’re not in the market for new furniture, it’s still worth stopping in just to gather decorating ideas. You’re sure to see the latest colors and styles and return home with more than a few possibilities for sprucing up your own space.

Not sure where the best furniture retailers are in your area? It’s as simple as entering your zip code .

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Stay In, Get Cool

Use the Color Visualizer on HomeFurnishings.com to experiment with paint colors.

Too hot to leave the house? Get cool in front of the computer and get decorating.

With the free tools on homefurnishings.com, you can virtually redecorate your home without spending a dime. Start with the Room Planner and experiment with your floorplan using your existing furniture; then try new looks with your dream furnishings. Next you’ll want to play with the Color Visualizer. You can see how different paint colors, flooring and finishes look in a variety of room settings. Then print, save or email your designs. And don’t forget to explore the Image Galleries for inspiring looks created by professional designers.

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Think About Outdoor Spaces

Decorating your outdoor spaces will help take your mind off the heat. Photo: Sunbrella.

Hot as it is, we’ll all be spending more time outdoors this summer—so don’t neglect your outdoor spaces. Whether you’re looking for a complete set of new outdoor furnishings or just one comfy chair for relaxing, there’s plenty to choose from. And if you haven’t shopped for your outdoor “room” in a while, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at the variety and quality of furnishings available. While you may not be able to get cool outdoors right now, at least you can be comfy and stylish.

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Get Inspired

The best part about decorating and dreaming about future decorating projects is that it takes your mind off the heat. No matter how hot it gets, your decorating dreams will keep you cool.

 

Furniture for Father’s Day

As the day to revere the fathers and father-figures in our lives approaches, it’s time to think outside the box for gifts. Surely there’s a better way to show dads our appreciation than with goofy mugs and corny gadgets.

The original comfortable chair featured on All in the Family

What about furniture for Father’s Day? Maybe a new recliner? What dad wouldn’t want a new comfy chair to watch the game or read the paper…I know mine would!

Beauty and the Seat

Now there are two camps regarding recliners: those who seek comfort (dads) are in favor of them, while those who seek beauty (purist decorators often label the recliner a “no-no”) often are not. The good news is that recliners have come a long way since the days of Archie Bunker on All in the Family.

Today there are beautiful options that bridge the divide between comfort and beauty. As we report on HomeFurnishings.com, many reclining chairs (also called motion furniture) are so well designed, you’d never guess that they’re recliners. Manufacturers have expanded this category and now offer recliners in a variety of fabric and leather options as well as a variety of eco-friendly options. And if you’re looking for a more streamlined chair without the traditionally bulky profile, those are available as well.

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Stylish Sitters

Here are just a few of the many recliner options in stores today:

La-Z-Boy continues to lead the way with stylish recliners like this model: The Carlyle.

The 'Laramie' from Broyhill is a recliner designed to look at home in almost any style room.

For more modern tastes there's the "Andre" from Lane Home Furnishings.

Leather is always a good fit for comfort and durability, and it looks super comfy on this model from Berkline.