Bring that sunny summer feeling indoors whatever the weather throws at you, with some clever lighting ideas…
There’s nothing like a lovely warm summer’s day for lifting the spirits… but even if the great British weather isn’t cooperating, you can use lighting to create a lovely summery atmosphere indoors…
What’s the best kind of lighting for creating a summery feel?
With some stylish, well-chosen lighting, you can turn your home into a fresh, inviting summer haven – whatever the weather is doing outside. The key is to layer your lighting.
Pendant lights and chandeliers offer ambient glow and visual drama, while wall lights and sconces add a soft, golden layer of warmth. Then there are table lamps and floor lamps – ideal for filling dark corners with a gentle, summery radiance.
What’s the best colour temperature for summer lighting?
The colour temperature of a lightbulb refers to how ‘warm’ or ‘cold’ the light appears, and is measured in Kelvins (K). Cooler, blue-white light is close to natural daylight and appears at the lower end of the scale (around 4,000-5,000K), and is great for recreating the feel of a bright, energising summer’s day. Meanwhile, warmer, yellowish light appears at the higher end (around 2,700-3,000K) and will create a more cosy, relaxed ambiance that brings to mind glowing sunsets and warm summer nights.
Bringing the sunshine indoors - ideas and inspiration
From bright and breezy living spaces to cosy summer evening nooks, here’s how to use light, colour and texture to create a summer-inspired interior…
Maximise natural light
Sheer curtains or adjustable blinds are your friend. Keep window sills clutter-free and trim back any outdoor shrubs or other plants that could block the flow of light inside. A neutral colour palette will reflect the light and make the space feel more open and airy, and you can add in colour accents via lamps, cushions, rugs and other accessories.
Add some summer sparkle
Choose fittings that bounce the light around. A glass pendant or chandelier reflects beautifully and makes a statement. Wall lights with brass, silver or chrome finishes add a polished gleam.
Introduce bold pops of colour
Summer is all about energy and colour – think hot reds, lush greens, deep blues and vibrant yellows. Lamps like the Mildred table lamp in hot chilli deliver instant summer mood, especially when paired with a patterned shade like a ikat.
Embrace natural materials and textures
Materials like rattan, cane, linen and wood bring the outside in. With its simple curves, the Rattle table lamp in natural cane, above, is warm, simple and elegant – and topped with a sunshine-yellow shade, it radiates summer charm.
Brighten up dark corners with rechargeable lighting
Our portable rechargeable lamps can go anywhere, no plugs required – great for gloomy corners or reading nooks. And when the sun pops out, you can whisk them outside for al fresco ambiance. (And if you get caught out by a summer shower, you can simply move things indoors and enjoy an indoor picnic…)
Change up your lampshades
Lampshades are an easy and cost-effective way of instantly transforming your home and giving it a fresh summer vibe (without the need to redecorate). Make your space look and feel bright and breezy with lampshades in light, sheer fabrics, or make a big, summery statement with a bright block colour.
Vibrant floral patterns are a lovely way of introducing a spot of summer cheer – how about a rich meadow flower design, like the straight empire lampshade in red English Meadow by Matthew Williamson?
Whether you're chasing the sunshine or creating your own, the right lighting makes all the difference. From zingy shades to breezy textures, there's a summery Pooky setup for every space.
Browse our full collection of lamps and shades to find your perfect summer glow.