paint trends for summer by inspire

Summer Paint Trends You Have to Try

Drab Walls? Painting is a Quick Fix

Summer is an ideal time to spice up your décor with fresh color.

If you’re painting your interior, you can open the windows to air out paint fumes and keep a breeze flowing through. If you’re painting your exterior, you can enjoy the sunshine and take frequent spiked lemonade breaks. It’s a win-win situation!

No matter what your color preferences are, we have some fabulous summer paint trends you don’t want to miss out on this month.

Paint Trend #1: Patio Painting

summer paint trends for patios

Credit: https://www.flickr.com/photos/lilbear/150225322

 

A dull grey patio is no place to drink margaritas this summer. If you have a concrete base (or even wood like in the example above) you can easily spruce it up with an appealing paint job to give your patio some life.

First, thoroughly clean the concrete to remove any dirt and debris so that it doesn’t mix in with your paint. You can use water and a mild eco-friendly detergent and scrub the surface with a broom or long handle scrub brush. Make sure you rinse all the soap away and allow your patio to dry completely before painting. If you’re patio is older, rent a power washer for the weekend. You’ll be shocked at the difference in color a power washer makes in the wood.

Now comes the fun part: Choose an exterior paint color that speaks to you. It could be something simple that compliments the exterior of your house or something more vibrant for a touch of fun.

If you’re really ambitious, you can turn your patio into a work of art. We were totally !nspired by this picture from Better Homes and Gardens:

credit Better Homes and Gardens

credit Better Homes and Gardens

Patios tend to withstand a lot of wear and tear. You might get away with one coat of paint for the season, but if you want something that will see you through a few summers, we recommend two to resist chipping or peeling over winter.

Once your paint job is complete, apply a sealer. Do not skip this part! A sealer will lock in the color and protect the finish well into next season too.

You don’t have to stick to your main patio, either. Try it on your concrete pathway for a look that’s right on trend.

Paint Trend #2: Painting Patterns Indoors

Chevrons and stripes have been on the décor scene for a while (usually on wallpaper and accent pillows) but this summer décor lovers are using paint to create a unique look you won’t find in the stores.

The great thing about painting patterns is affordability. All you need is painter’s tape to create your desired pattern and your usual painting supplies.

You also have the freedom to create your pattern in any color combination you want—something wallpaper doesn’t offer.

Wherever you decide to paint your pattern, try sticking to one area or wall for a bold statement look. It’s important not to overwhelm the eye with a kaleidoscopic room.

To anchor your space and create a soothing contrast, we recommend solid furniture pieces like the Lexus Settee in White. Clean, simple lines mesh perfectly with patterned spaces…

accent seating Inspireathome

(!nspire tip: Be sure to check out Pinterest and YouTube for different tutorials on creating your taped pattern and use a top-quality painters tape to avoid paint bleeding.)

Bold Backsplashes

 

backsplash painted glass

credit: DHV Architects

 

Summer painting is all about the peek-a-boo effect; finding unexpected places to infuse a pop of color and ignite a sense of summer freshness. This look, by DHV Architects was created by painting the backsplash a bold color and overlaying it with clear glass. More affordable than glass tile and equally dramatic.

While colored accent walls will always be a popular décor move, top decorators around the world are having fun working with more condensed areas in bolder colors.

The smaller the area, the brighter you can go without overwhelming the space.

Think: backs of bookshelves, picture frames, kitchen backsplashes and ceilings; even baseboards and doorframes are making bright appearances in décor magazines.

This trend looks especially great against white backdrops and lighter colored walls and carpets, allowing your bold pops of color to stand out even more.

If you’re afraid to take the bold color plunge we recommend starting small. Try a cluster of vibrant picture frames on one wall and go from there. You won’t be disappointed with the results!
Have you given any of these summer paint trends a try? We’d love to hear all about your ‘before & after’ stories in the comments below. Happy painting!