As the final days of summer approach, there’s still time to soak up the vacation season, without leaving your home. A summer staycation is the perfect way to tap into laid-back luxury from the comfort of your very own oasis. Spend a fraction of the price for an experience you’ll enjoy daily for months, or even years. With just a few simple upgrades, you can transform your everyday space into a mini retreat that channels your favorite beach house or vacation rental escape all year round. Convinced? Here are five easy ways to make your home feel like a destination and extend that summer state of mind just a little longer.
1. Let the Sunshine In (On Your Terms)
Capture that relaxing resort-inspired feel with light-filtering window blinds and shades. Go for sheer or woven fabrics that soften natural light while protecting your interiors from harsh rays.
Roman shades or cellular shades in light-colored, airy materials help diffuse sunlight throughout the room—perfect for brightening your space without overheating it. Not only do the right window treatments provide privacy, but they also enhance the overall ambiance of your summer home sanctuary.
Pro tip: Look for motorized options to adjust your shades with the touch of a button, just like at your favorite vacation rentals.
2. Bring Beach House Vibes
No need to go coastal to bring in those summer decor ideas. Think breezy textures, relaxed neutrals and a few thoughtfully placed accents like linen throws, woven baskets or driftwood-inspired details.
Even a simple swap of pillows or a lightweight summer rug can transform your living room into a beachy retreat. This is where woven wood shades truly shine with a natural texture and laid-back look that evokes the feel of a tropical getaway, offering both function and style for any room.
3. Extend Your Living Space Outdoors
When it comes to summer staycation ideas, think outside the home. The more time you can spend touching grass in fresh air, the better. Elevate up your patio or balcony with comfortable seating, string lights and a weatherproof dining area.
Adding outdoor shades to control light and heat while still enjoying the view, can be a game-changer, especially if you’re dining al fresco or lounging poolside. Ultimately, creating an inviting outdoor space gives your home the feel of a vacation rental without ever leaving your property.
4. Create a "Vacation-Only" Zone
Even the smallest spaces, try designating one room or even just a corner, as a relaxation zone. This means no laptops, no laundry and no distractions. Set up a comfy chair, a window view if possible and maybe a small side table for your favorite summer reads and drinks.
This helps create separation between your daily grind and your summer unwind, even when you’re not technically away. Layer in soft window shades and blinds to control natural light throughout the day, setting the mood for everything from sunrise meditation to golden-hour lounging.
5. Please the Senses
Tapping into the five senses is a powerful way to shift mindset without ever leaving your space. Swap out cool overhead lights for warm-glow lamps or candles. Consider choosing a signature summer scent inspired by your favorite getaway. Channel tropical beaches with coconut, sea salt or citrus. Transport yourself to a tranquil campsite with pine and smokey scents. Small sensory changes help reinforce that this time is special, even if it’s just a weekend at home.
With a few thoughtful touches and the right window coverings, you can turn your everyday home into the kind of vacation property you can enjoy all year round. Whether you’re dreaming of a cabin, cottage or beachy getaway, these staycation ideas bring the comfort, style and serenity of travel—without the travel of course.
Looking for more ways to refresh your space? Explore our curated collection of window blinds and shades to find the perfect fit for your summer (and year-round) sanctuary.
