Five summer home trends you need to know about - from wabi-sabi to maximalism

As the weather warms up, it's the perfect time to inject some creativity and sunshine into your home décor. From playful updates to stylish additions and vibrant colours, there are plenty of ways to enhance your outdoor space.

Here's a look at what's trending in homewares and furnishings:

1. Clean Girl aesthetic.

The Clean Girl trend, inspired by the laid-back style of off-duty models, is all about sophistication and understatement, according to Anjelica Delfino, paint and interiors expert at Valspar Paint.

"This aesthetic is more of a lifestyle than a fashion statement, extending to our interiors with a focus on minimalism and neutrals."

To incorporate this trend into your home, Delfino suggests opting for a neutral colour palette and adding accents of linen and wool to create a soft, inviting space.

"Layering these textures adds a touch of luxury to the home, making it feel cosy and comfortable, yet well-curated. Our homes should be places of protection and rejuvenation amidst our busy lives."

Adding indoor plants to your decor can also help create a calming, zen-like atmosphere.

2. Wabi-sabi styling.

"The philosophy of wabi-sabi has gained popularity in the world of interior design. Originating from a traditional Japanese worldview, it celebrates the beauty of imperfection and the natural world," explains Delfino.

Wabi-sabi is recognised for its minimalist approach, embracing the unique qualities found in natural materials, which creates a tactile and organic feel in home decor, according to Delfino.

"If you want to introduce wabi-sabi into the home but aren't quite prepared to part with your belongings, an easy place to start is with decor," suggests Delfino.

"Pairing a fresh, brilliant white with a deep, rich brown creates a sophisticated yet understated look."

She continues. "Nature is also a huge part of this aesthetic, so refresh the mind with accents of soft greens that blend seamlessly and bring the natural world into the home, resulting in a calming interior.

3. Maximalism.

Colour has been at the heart of many trends this year, paving the way for a new wave of maximalism in our homes, highlights Gisela Lancaster, head of buying at Sofology."

Better known as Maximalism 2.0, this will be the summer of intricate patterns, bold colours and abundant textures.

"The one step change to previous years will be an avoidance of anything too overwhelming, says Lancaster, so here are three tips to achieve the right balance in any living space."

Start with a cohesive colour palette to help connect the curated clashes in a calm and contemporary way geometric scatter cushions, graphic curtains, bold wallpaper and a bright sofa can all work together as long as your colour palette remains concise.

Lancaster advises: "Don't shy away from lime and orange citrus shades when it comes to furniture and furnishings... energising pastels can add real zest to both contemporary and traditional schemes, while welcoming the sunshine into our homes."

"Mix modern pieces with reclaimed and vintage finds to add character and depth to these bursts of colour and pattern," she suggests.

4. Fun Fusion.

The Fun Fusion trend is quickly becoming a favourite, according to Daniela Venturini, art director and trend forecaster at Wayfair.

"In a time where people are keen to create personal sanctuaries and escape the doom and gloom of the real world, this optimistic style brings playful reassurance and a sense of light-hearted spontaneity," Venturini says excitedly.

"Think bright colours and sculptural shapes to recreate the look! ".

Venturini assures that this fun, refreshing style is accessible no matter your budget and is also perfect for outdoor areas, regardless of size.

"Extending that sense of self with a statement planter or some choice accessories, from bold drinking glasses to durable textiles, makes this an easy aesthetic to recreate."

5. Retro Glam.

"There's a reason Retro Glam is a strong trend for this season and beyond, breathing playful nostalgia and reassuring comfort into our homes when we need it most," Venturini observes.

"As more and more people seek familiarity, this considered combination of classic design, traditional detail and contemporary accents really appeals."

Venturini suggests a setting with vintage-style lighting and elegant crystal glasses alongside neutral furniture for a balanced, dramatic finish.

"It's easy to achieve this look outdoors too, whether you have plenty of room or playing with a smaller space."

"Simply mix jewel-tone velvet cushions with a wicker garden sofa, balancing textures and colour to create just the right amount of eccentricity choose fancy glassware to add a touch of class."