With Spring here (officially anyway), it is time to get your sunroom into shape for the Summer. Now is the time to take advantage of the hot interior design trend of bring nature inside your home. Your sunroom is one of the best places to blend the lines between inside and outside. Here are a few design tips on how to decorate your sunroom with an eye towards making it feel like an extension of your backyard.
Let In the Natural Light
The whole point of a sunroom is to let in the light. Technology has made it possible to install large windows and still be energy-friendly. While many people are not dressing their windows at all, those who wish to have some coverage are opting for blinds made of natural elements like bamboo, or loosely woven cotton or linen curtains that give privacy, yet still let in light.
Another way to let the light into the room is through the use of French doors that open onto a deck, brick patio, or into a lush garden.
Stay Away from Synthetics
Science has proven we need light to be healthy and feel good, so make your sunroom one of the happiest rooms in your home with the use of comfortable furniture covered in natural fabrics like linen. Lots of brightly covered throw pillows are great accents to use with neutral base colors like cream, gray or navy.
Mid-century modern pieces are perfect to use in sunrooms because of their curved wood shapes. If mid-century is not for you, use furniture made of natural material, like rattan.
While some designers nix the use of wicker in a sunroom, current design is all about reflecting the homeowner’s style. So, if you love wicker, go for it. A fun substitute would be a bamboo chair or settee.
Flooring Sets the Tone
Wood-look porcelain tile, painted cement, high-quality vinyl planks, or natural wood are all strong bases upon which to build the look and feel of a sunroom. They are easy-clean options that add style and quality to the room. Complete the look with a sisal area rug to add texture.
A recent trend is to lay a floor using either hexagonal tiles or painted tiles, like those found in Spanish villas by the sea. These statement floors make the room feel a bit exotic.
Make it Your Oasis
Accent the room with lush green plants that enhance look and the quality of the air. A few of these plants include: English Ivy, Peace Lily, Lady Palm, Boston Fern, Snake Plant, Golden Pothos, Wax Begonia, Red-Edged Dracaena, and Spider Plant
When choosing plants, be careful. Some, like peace lily, are poisonous to animals. Make sure you keep any of these far from beloved pets, or out of the house completely. A list of plants poisonous to pets is available at aspca.com.
Sunrooms are frequently the most popular room in the house. They are the gateway to the outdoors in the summer, and they can be a great private reading nook or technology getaway in the cooler months.
