Summer Styling: Summer Home Refreshes Under £100

Want to give your home a summer makeover but not sure where to start? Our resident interior design expert, Rebecca Jones fromEdward Thomas Interiors , talks revamps, refreshes and reinventions for under £100, showing how smart swaps can make a big impact.

Which rooms are best to refresh for summer, and why?

The places where you spend the most time are best to target as you’ll really feel the benefit of any changes. So the living room, kitchen and bedroom would be my top three. Add layered lighting, linens and lighter fabrics. If you’re short on time, somewhere like the bathroom or downstairs WC is also a great space to revamp. Whether that’s repainting or simply adding some new accessories, you’ll definitely notice the difference!

What colours, textures and materials create fresh, summer-inspired interiors?

Summer 2026 is embracing soft pale and pastel shades, think buttery yellow, cornflower blue and off-white, but is combining these with high-impact colours. Rich reds and plums, sun-kissed terracotta, and chocolaty browns all make a statement accent. Pair these with earthy or marble ceramics, woven rattan lighting and accessories, and mixed woods for a layered yet inviting look.

Which under £100 refresh makes the biggest visual impact?

A wall or ceiling treatment can be a real game changer. Colour block painting, with soft edge shapes like arches and circles, works well to create a focal point in the room or to elevate a new feature such as a mirror or shelving. Drenching is still having a moment too, and a painted ceiling will certainly add instant impact. Don’t discount areas of panelling or wallpapering either. Both are brilliant for creating affordable, characterful features without overwhelming the space.

What trends are worth trying this summer (on a budget)?

Heritage maximalism can be very budget friendly. This ‘more-is-more’ trend offers a way of mixing heritage design elements with the statement colours and textures I mentioned earlier. If you want to introduce this into your interiors, my advice is to start small. So swap a plain lampshade for a patterned one, or change door and cabinetry handles to something more decorative and detailed.

Another trend we’re loving is the lived in, comfort-first look. Before buying anything new, rethink your layout. Does your furniture work with the natural flow of the room? Would a new layout make the room feel cosier and more welcoming? You might be surprised by the difference rearranging your existing furniture can make, and best of all, it’s free!

Where do you recommend shopping for summer bargains?

Lately, we’ve spotted brilliant homeware in M&S, H&M and Zara. You can also pick up budget-friendly finds at Homesense or The Range, especially if you’re looking for seasonal accessories.