In denial? Keep the summer vibes going with these 5 pro design tips

With Labour Day fast approaching, it’s hard not to feel the nostalgia of summer already setting in. But while August’s days are numbered, that doesn’t necessarily mean the summer fun has to stop. In fact, with a few simple home design tips (or a new home that channels all the best parts of the summer season!), you can live out the winter months in a vacation oasis right in your own home.

How? Simple: take some hot tips from these Toronto listings! They’re great examples of how simple design touches can give off warm summer vibes all year long.

1. Soak up the sun … indoors!

If you yearn for sunlight in the darker months of the year, finding a home that’s filled with natural light is key.  Take a peek at these two light-filled listings for some sunny inspiration: 
This Victorian Row in Roncy boasts a beautiful sunroom that opens into the backyard, plus big and bright second-floor bedrooms. With a beautiful contemporary kitchen and an attractive income apartment in the basement, this listing is giving us lots to smile about

Or, enjoy views of the valley at 12-Mile Creek from your light-filled sunroom at 404 Bronte Rd. With plenty of space to work and entertain, this 4-bed, 4-bath home close to Bronte Harbour truly sparkles in the sunlight. 

2. Embrace the outdoors

There’s no better way to extend those precious summer nights than by relaxing in your private backyard oasis. And we’ve found a listing that’s really maximizing the great outdoors. us all major patio-envy:

Enjoy the heat while it’s here with a breezy outdoor abode, like this one at 251 Ontario Street The fully fenced-in yard surrounded by large trees provides a ton of privacy for backyard soirees. Located centrally in the downtown core, this listing is the perfect blend of modern elegance and city convenience, just steps from shops and neighbourhood parkettes.

3. Lean into the natural decor

Longing for the beach long into winter? Take some inspiration from your favourite sand and surf and incorporate it into your home décor. Freshen up your walls with natural materials and hues, and opt for carpets with a sea-soaked palette to pull the look together.

If the water’s edge makes your heart sing, you might fall in love with 77 Maughan Crescent. This listing pairs the perfect accents to bring that beach-inspired aesthetic to life. A big summer-season plus? It’s just a 14-minute walk to Lake Ontario!

4. Light up your life

Finding ways to brighten up the dark corners of your home is a great way to keep the winter gloom at bay. Add layers of lighting to each space, brighten walls with light-coloured paint or finishes and choose sun-simulating lamps to chase the shadows away.

This bright and light-filled listing at 15 Elsie St is the perfect example – a gem that’s few and far between! Close to Bloor Street and the Toronto Rail Path, this stacked 2+1 bedroom townhome offers a great layout in a great community.

5. Get closer to the sun and sky

Feeling down spending time on the ground? Maybe it’s time to set your sights a little closer to the sun!

This spacious eighth-floor condo listing at 39 Brant St. offers an open concept floor plan that lets the light shine in. The concrete accent walls offer a modern touch, and the oversized balcony is the perfect space to spend some time closer to the sky.

Happy house hunting!