Designers Predict the Biggest Interior Design Trends of Summer

South Carolina-based designer Abby Evans of Metal + Petal welcomes the use of eye-catching patterns wherever you see fit.
“This summer, we’re leaning into the charm of pattern with renewed enthusiasm. Whether it's a striped linen, a floral wallpaper or a sculptural light fixture with unexpected detailing, pattern brings a jolt of freshness and movement to a space. Even in the most pared-back, neutral interiors, a well-placed pattern introduces a bit of whimsy, depth and an invitation to look closer. It’s not about going bold for bold’s sake, but about creating interiors that breathe, evolve and speak to the season.”

Photo by: Kaitie Bryant

Butter yellow has been everywhere this spring and the trend is expected to continue for summer. “Everyone is embracing this soft, buttery shade — it's versatile and uplifting,” says designers Elizabeth Bennett and Mallory Robins of Kobel+Co. “It is a perfect neutral alternative to white and beige and is the ideal color for easy updates to existing decor.”

Photo by: Nate Sheets Photography

The summer season is a great time to lean into texture and designer Sara Swabb is all for woven accents in a tonal palette. “Natural woven elements—like rattan, cane and abaca—are back in interiors in a more refined, sculptural way,” Swabb says. “Whether it’s a handwoven pendant, a framed cane screen or an abaca-wrapped coffee table, these pieces add warmth and movement while keeping the space feeling open and airy. They ground a space without weighing it down.”

Photo by: Stacy Zarin Goldberg

Take advantage of al fresco entertaining — preferably with a well-stocked bar (AphroChic Home's Vineyard Bar Cart is pictured). “Our homes are becoming more and more our sanctuaries in the 21st century, and instead of having to deal with the hassle of going out for a cocktail, people are adding bars to their outdoor spaces,” says Jeanine Hays and Bryan Mason, founders of AphroChic. “Simply include a bar table, a modern bar cart and some signature cocktails or mocktails, and your patio easily becomes the destination for the next cocktail party or brunch.”

Photo by: AphroChic Home

According to designer Vern Yip, you can't go wrong with tropical patterns in bright hues. “Incorporate versions showcasing a variety of tropical foliage in patterns featuring color combos such as pink, gold and green for a fresher take,” says Yip, author of Color, Pattern and Texture, which will be released on October 14. “Look to bedding and throw pillows as easy ways to fold in tropicals without the pressure of a longer-term commitment.”

Photo by: Robert Peterson

A gallery wall with matching frames doesn't have to be the go-to. Brooklyn-based designer Emma Beryl of Emma Beryl Interiors loves the look of mismatched frames for summer. “It adds a relaxed summery feeling to your house and also allows your art collection to grow naturally without having to worry about finding the same frames you used for the first pieces you hung up.

She recommends Artfully Walls, which simplifies the process of arranging different pieces of art. “It makes it so easy to build out an art story with their gallery wall tool," Beryl shares. “I especially love the 'Gallery Glam' (kit) because the frames incorporate all different materials, textures and feelings to build a layered look.”

Photo by: Julia Robbs

Wallpaper is an easy way to experiment with pattern and color, whether you go for traditional non-pasted papers or peel-and-stick options. “Wallpaper is one of those design elements that always leaves a lasting impression, no matter the season,” says Austin-based designer Annie Downing of Annie Downing Interiors. “Right now, I’m especially drawn to pistachio green. It’s such a beautiful hue: soft, slightly nostalgic and just unexpected enough to feel fresh. I love using it in small-scale wallpaper patterns, where it creates a subtle backdrop that adds depth and dimension. It brings a softness that still feels rich and vibrant — perfect for summer — and it makes any space feel more intentional, especially when layered with art.”

Photo by: Cydney Cosette

When in doubt, take a cue from designer Julia Longchamps Designs and embrace flowers. “A fresh vase of hydrangeas instantly brightens up any space and just makes everything feel happier—little bursts of joy in bloom,” Longchamps says.

Photo by: Keyanna Bowen

Designer Lauren Kyle McDavid is leaning into nature this season. “Playing off natural stone colors with layered textures, mixed stones and soft accents like florals and books adds depth and warmth,” says Kyle McDavid. “This summer, it’s all about creating spaces that feel grounded in nature but styled with intention — where a leafy tree, a wool throw or a vintage book becomes part of the design story.”

Photo by: Ayo Erinle