Beat the Heat: Keeping Your Home Cool & Stylish This Summer

As the temperatures rise, maintaining a cool and comfortable home becomes a priority. However, beating the heat does not mean sacrificing style. Every designer should be responsible for creating spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also comfortable, especially during the summer.

Photography: Noughts & Crosses | Project: Treetops, New Delhi

Here are some expert tips from our Creative Director, Devika Khosla, to keep your home naturally cool while ensuring it remains vibrant and inviting.

• Embrace Light and Airy Fabrics

Swap out heavy winter fabrics for lighter options. Linen, cotton, and sheer drapes allow for better air circulation and add a breezy feel to your rooms. Opt for light-coloured fabrics to reflect heat rather than absorb it.

 

Photography: Noughts & Crosses | Soft natural fabrics with lighter earthy tones give our project, Terra a cooler edge over Gwalior’s summer heat.

Comfort is key during hot summer nights. Swap out heavy comforters for lightweight throws and choose breathable fabrics for bed sheets and pillowcases, as they allow for better airflow, keeping you cool and comfortable throughout the night.

• Maximise Natural Ventilation

Strategically open windows and doors to create cross-ventilation. Use screen doors to keep insects out while letting fresh air in. Ceiling fans are also a great addition; they use less energy than air conditioning and keep the air moving, providing a cooling effect.

 

Photography: Amit Mehra | Our project Sattva House boasts ample natural ventilation and light, helping moderate the indoor temperature sustainably. 

• Cool Tones and Nature-Inspired Colors

Incorporate cool tones like blues, greens, and whites into your décor. These colours evoke a sense of calm and coolness and keep your space fresh and vibrant. Nature-inspired shades can help you feel connected to the outdoors, which is particularly soothing during the warmer months.

Photography: Noughts & Crosses | Our project, The Valley Of Dreams, is the perfect example showing the comfort that comes with mixing natural materials and cool shades. 

According to our Creative Director, Devika Khosla, lighter colours can also help keep your home cooler. Soft pastels or neutral tones reflect sunlight, making your space airy and cooler. Sheer curtains crafted from lightweight materials like linen or cotton diffuse harsh sunlight while maintaining a bright and inviting atmosphere.

• Indoor Plants for a Breath of Fresh Air

Indoor plants are more than just decorative elements. Plants naturally cool the air through transpiration. They also improve indoor air quality and add a touch of nature. They act as natural air purifiers, removing toxins and balancing humidity levels in your home.

Photography: Noughts & Crosses | Indoor and outdoor plants can significantly cool down your home, as seen in our project, Terra, Gwalior.

Consider placing ferns, spider plants, or peace lilies in your living areas. These plants thrive in indirect sunlight and help keep the environment cool.

• Cool Flooring Choices

Consider swapping out heavy rugs for lighter, breathable materials like jute or sisal. These natural fibres are not only durable and stylish but also help keep your floors cool. If you have hardwood or tile floors, they can also help in maintaining a lower temperature in your home.

 

Photography: Noughts & Crosses | Tiles and natural materials like wood help maintain a comfortable temperature in our project Rue 32.

By implementing these tips, you can create a naturally cool and vibrant living space that keeps you comfortable throughout the season. Remember, a few strategic changes can make a significant difference in how your home feels and looks. Enjoy the summer months with a refreshed, stylish, and cool interior!