Summer Home Tour 2017: Stylish Coastal Decor Ideas
Welcome to my summer home tour — come on in and stay a while!
“In the summer, the days were long, stretching into each other. Out of school, everything was on pause and yet happening at the same time, this collection of weeks when anything was possible.”
―Sarah Dessen, Along for the Ride
RELATED: Simple Beachy Summer Mantel
Summer feels like it should be slower, gentler, and more restful — but in our house it’s anything but slow. Between family visits, pool days, and neighborhood gatherings, our calendar fills up fast. We trade structure for spontaneity, trading alarm clocks for late mornings, but the pace remains relentless in the best possible way.
We pack each day with backyard barbecues, swim sessions that leave everyone sandy and sun-kissed, and long evenings where the light lingers until eight. It’s joyful and full — the kind of busy that’s loaded with memory-making moments, even if it doesn’t always feel restful.
Yes, we get to see more of each other and more friends and extended family, which is wonderful. Still, sometimes I joke that I need a vacation from our vacation — not because I don’t love it, but because the non-stop fun can be exhausting for an introvert who appreciates a little routine.
I adore everything about summer — the turquoise blue of the water, the navy accents that ground our decor, flip-flops, sunscreen scents, and those long evenings. My summer styling leans into navy and turquoise accents throughout the kitchen and living spaces to evoke a seaside feeling even when we’re at home.
Super cute Summer Essentials free printable from Jones Design Company (printable title noted for inspiration)
Balancing the energy of summer with my personality means carving out quiet moments during the day, even amid the excitement. That balance of exhilaration and exhaustion shows up in parenting and in the work I love — helping others create homes they cherish.
Motherhood, which I sometimes call “momming,” is the most intense and rewarding role I’ve ever had. It’s 24/7, and every little moment — from sleepy cuddles to “I love you” whispers — fills me with joy. Those are the memories I try to savor rather than record, knowing that presence matters more than documentation.
One recent night, my littlest sang every line of “You Are My Sunshine” as I rocked her—she’s only two and a half. That heartfelt moment was priceless. I almost reached for my phone, but I didn’t want to break the spell. Those are the summer memories I’ll cherish most.
Running a creative business from home lets me be flexible: I can spend afternoons at the pool, visit family for a few days, and work late when needed. It’s not always easy, and sleep can be scarce, but the trade-off of being present for the kids while doing work I love makes it worthwhile.
When overwhelm creeps in, I remind myself to breathe and enjoy this brief season. Summer is a rhythm of joyful chaos — two months full of connection, long daylight, and simple pleasures. Soon enough it will be time for sharpened pencils and backpacks again, so I try to soak in the light, the colors, and the laughter while it’s here.
RECIPE: Lime Thumbprint Cookies (recipe credit noted for inspiration)
Enjoy the journey. Summer often brings a mix of emotions: exhilaration and exhaustion, relaxation and hustle. What in your life feels wonderfully contradictory right now? I’d love to hear about your own summer balance and the moments you’re holding close.
