Summer is honestly one of my favorite times to switch things up at home, especially in the kitchen.
I love bringing in lighter, brighter, and more cheerful touches that instantly lift the vibe. And the best part?
You don’t need to do a full renovation. Just a few simple decor swaps can totally refresh your space.
Whether you’re into beachy vibes, tropical prints, or something more rustic, there’s something here you’ll love.
Let’s jump into 20 easy ways to give your kitchen that warm, sunny glow.
1. Tropical Themed Accents
I’m obsessed with tropical touches in the summer. Think palm leaves, pineapples, and maybe even a cheeky little flamingo print.
I usually just add a couple of fun pieces like a fruit-patterned dish towel or a bold table runner with a pop of color.
Even one piece of wall art can make your kitchen feel like a mini vacation. Trust me, it makes sipping your morning coffee way more fun.
I love the tropical wallpaper moments by Curated Kitchen and Shelterness
2. Jute Rugs for Natural Texture
One of my favorite swaps is replacing heavy winter rugs with something lighter. Jute rugs are such a good choice for summer.
They add warmth without making the space feel stuffy. I like to place one in front of the sink or under the kitchen table.
They’re durable, easy to clean, and the natural look pairs perfectly with any color scheme.
3. Summer Tiered Tray Styling
Tiered trays are my go-to for seasonal decorating because they’re so easy to update. In the summer, I like to fill mine with little succulents, some seashells I’ve collected, or tiny faux citrus fruits.
I’ll sometimes add a small candle or cute napkins to make it feel pulled together.
And honestly, I love that I can change it up whenever the mood strikes.
4. Sunflower Textiles for a Pop of Color
Sunflowers scream summer to me. I love using sunflower dish towels or even a tablecloth to bring that cheerful yellow into the space.
Sometimes I just hang a single sunflower oven mitt on a hook for a little burst of sunshine.
It’s such an easy way to brighten things up without going overboard.
5. A Mini Herb Garden
There’s something about having fresh herbs in the kitchen that feels so summery. I like to keep basil, mint, or rosemary in little pots on the windowsill.
If you’re short on space, a hanging herb planter works beautifully.
Not only does it look adorable, but I swear herbs make your food taste better.
6. A Seasonal Fruit Bowl Centerpiece
This might be the simplest idea, but it makes a big impact. I love keeping a bowl of lemons, limes, or peaches on the counter.
It doubles as décor and a healthy snack. I like to use a woven or ceramic bowl to make it pop even more.
Swap out your regular fruit Bowl for a wooden dough bowl and instantly get a more rustic feel.
7. Wicker and Rattan Accents
Wicker and rattan are totally summer staples. I’ve added a wicker bread box and a rattan fruit basket to my space and I love how it brings that light, breezy feel.
You could even add a set of cane-back chairs if you want to go a little bigger. These textures go with everything from farmhouse to modern decor.
8. Citrus-Scented Candles or Diffusers
Okay, I am seriously into scent. A lemon or grapefruit candle instantly makes the kitchen feel clean and uplifting.
I also love using essential oil diffusers with citrus blends. Even placing fresh lemon peels in a bowl adds a natural burst of freshness.
I recently came across this post by Tara Lenney on summer essential oils blends , you can check it out here
9. A Rattan Pendant Light
This one is for those who want a slightly bigger update.
Swapping out a heavy light fixture for a rattan pendant makes such a difference. I love how it casts a soft, cozy light.
It makes the kitchen feel airy and relaxed, like you’re somewhere tropical even if you’re just making breakfast at home.
10. Seasonal Wall Art Swap
Wall art is such an underrated way to update a space. I like to switch out darker, wintery pieces for something lighter—like a beach landscape or even a DIY abstract sunset.
If you’re not ready to invest in new frames, removable peel-and-stick wallpaper is a great temporary option to brighten things up.
- Vintage inspired lemon pattern
- Peel and stick to apply, pull up to remove
- NuWallpaper is safe for walls and leaves no sticky residue behind
11. A Kitchen Island Centerpiece
Your island deserves a little love too. I like to create a mini vignette with a wooden tray, a vase of fresh flowers, maybe a couple of mason jars, and some cookbooks with fun, summery covers.
It makes the whole space feel intentional without being fussy.
12. A Fun Seasonal Coffee Bar
This one’s just for fun, and I think every kitchen needs a little personality.
I love writing seasonal quotes on a chalkboard or framing a playful summer saying like “Tropical Vibes Only.” It’s a sweet, simple way to add a little joy to your space.
13. Gingham Patterns for Classic Charm
Gingham is such a classic summer print, and I’m always drawn to it this time of year. A red-and-white gingham tablecloth or blue-checked napkins gives me all the picnic vibes.
You can even find gingham seat cushions or curtains if you want to go all in.
14. Potted Plants for Freshness
Greenery is always a good idea. I’m a big fan of low-maintenance plants like pothos, snake plants, or even fake plants if you don’t have a green thumb.
I like to place them near the window or hang a few in planters to bring in that fresh, lively feeling.
15. Lemon-Themed Decor
Lemon-themed everything, please! I adore yellow accents in the kitchen, and lemon prints are such a fun way to bring that in.
I’ve used lemon-print tea towels, yellow dishware, and even filled a clear glass jar with real lemons.
It’s cheerful, it’s bright, and it never goes out of style.
16. Seasonal Blooms
A simple seasonal centerpiece can brighten up your entire kitchen.
Even just adding some bright glassware can totally change the feel of your table setup. It’s a simple switch that makes meals more fun.
17. Coastal-Inspired Details
Coastal decor doesn’t have to be over-the-top. I’ve added small touches like driftwood pieces, rope-wrapped jars, and seashells in a vase.
A beachy centerpiece like that can make your space feel fresh and breezy without going full nautical.
18. Mason Jar Decor
You can never go wrong with mason jars. I use them for everything—from holding utensils to showcasing fresh flowers.
Tie some twine or ribbon around the top for a rustic summer touch.
They’re budget-friendly and give your space that sweet, homey feel.
19. Lavender for Calming Fragrance
I absolutely love the calming scent of lavender in the kitchen.
A small vase with dried lavender or a sachet in a drawer adds the most soothing touch.
Bonus points: the soft purple looks gorgeous with yellow and blue summer tones.
20. Vintage Touches for Character
One of my favorite ways to make the kitchen feel cozy is to add vintage or thrifted items.
I’ve picked up retro signs, old-school glassware, and even a little antique scale that now lives on my counter.
These pieces have so much charm and make the space feel more personal.
Summer kitchen decor doesn’t have to be complicated. I like to treat it as a chance to have a little fun, try something new, and make my space feel fresh and inviting.
Mix textures, experiment with color, and most importantly, make it feel like your happy place.
Do you have a go-to summer kitchen idea I missed? I’d love to hear how you decorate for the season — let me know in the comments!
