10 Stylish Summer Updates

Want to shake things up, but don’t want to invest the time and money in a complete interior makeover? Redecorating doesn’t have to mean major changes. Sometimes a little refresh can breathe new life into an existing scheme, as these style updates showcase.

- Mairead Walsh

1 Fresh focus

Creating a new centrepiece – for a dining table, console table or shelving unit – stretches your artistic muscles and reinvigorates a scheme that may just need a new focal point. Pick a colour or theme and use seasonal pieces, florals, ceramics or objects, to create an entirely new arrangement. You’ll be surprised how it can highlight other elements of the décor.

2 Reflecting change

When it comes to mirrors, the bigger the better. Mirrors are especially effective when placed opposite a window to augment the natural light and sense of space. You can also try hanging two or three with complementary frames and geometric shapes for even greater impact, as 2XL Furniture &HomeDecor (pictured) demonstrates here, where the reflections also highlight the statement chandelier.

3 Make it personal

Old postcards, concert posters, travel treasures and other personal memorabilia are a fun way to make a space uniquely yours and offer great conversation starters with guests. Displayed on a wall or placed beneath the glass top of a table, these special items can add great character to your scheme.

 4 Frame game