Summer Projects: Where to Invest Time (and Budget) This Season
Summer is one of our favorite seasons for home projects—and not just because the weather’s great. With longer days, more flexible schedules, and contractors often have a little more availability, it’s the perfect time to tackle those updates you’ve been dreaming about all year.
But we’re not talking about DIYs from your Pinterest board. This is about smart, intentional changes that make a real impact—and are best handled by professionals. Whether you’re planning a full-room refresh or just want to make a few updates that elevate your space, here are a few summer-friendly projects worth investing in.
1. A Fresh Coat of Paint (The Right Way)
Painting is one of the quickest ways to transform a space—but don’t underestimate the power of doing it well. A professional paint job can take a room from forgettable to elevated, especially when you choose colors that reflect how you want to feel in the space.
Things to Consider:
What mood are you after? Bright and airy? Moody and dramatic? Playful and bold?
Don’t default to white just for resale. Choose colors you love—you’re the one living with them.
Finishes matter:
Walls – eggshell
Trim – satin
Ceilings – flat
Want a statement moment? High-gloss ceilings (especially in pantries or dining rooms) can be stunning—but know they require extra prep and precision.
Hiring a Pro? Ask These Questions:
Who do your neighbors recommend?
How do they prep? (If they skip sanding, priming, or floor protection—run.)
What steps do they take to protect surrounding surfaces and furniture?
⏱ Timeline Tip: Most rooms take 2–3 days, depending on size and condition. Our recent nursery project took 3 days: one for prep, one for trim/doors, and one for walls and touch-ups.
2. Swap Your Light Fixtures
New lighting can completely change a room’s vibe—and summer is a great time to make the switch. Just like the right accessories can elevate an outfit, the perfect lighting fixtures add elegance, warmth, and personality to your space. Whether you’re replacing dated fixtures or layering in more thoughtful lighting, working with a licensed electrician ensures everything is installed safely and looks as good as it functions.
Some of our favorite ways to elevate a space with lighting:
Chandeliers: Instant drama. Let them steal the show.
Indoor Lamps: Affordable, flexible, and perfect for layering.
Recessed Lighting: Functional, clean, and great for energy savings.
✨ Want more lighting tips? Check out our previous post: [Lighting 101: The Secret to Perfectly Lit Spaces].
3. Upgrade Your Countertops
If your kitchen or bath needs a refresh but you’re not ready for a full renovation, updating the countertops can make a huge difference. And in summer, it might actually be faster to book fabricators and installers thanks to more schedule flexibility.
Design Tips:
Quartz: Durable, easy to maintain, and still a client favorite.
Dekton: Growing in popularity for its ultra-durable properties—great for high-traffic kitchens.
Marble or Quartzite: Beautiful statement materials, best used in spots with less daily wear like bars or powder rooms unless you love the long term patina these materials get with daily use.
Working with a designer can help you narrow thousands of options into 1–2 that actually fit your space, style, and needs—saving you time and major decision fatigue.
⏱ Timeline Tip: Expect about 2–4 weeks from selection to install, depending on material and complexity.
4. Add a Backsplash (Without the Hassle)
Sometimes it’s the finishing touches that make a room feel complete. A backsplash adds polish, texture, and personality to your kitchen or bath—and summer’s a great time to finally make it happen.
We always recommend visiting a local tile shop (like Venice Tile & Marble or J&D Tile) where you can browse in person and connect with a professional installer. It’s the easiest way to ensure the end result looks custom—not chaotic.
Let’s Make the Most of Summer
You don’t have to knock down walls or live in a construction zone to breathe new life into your home. With the right projects—and the right professionals—you can make meaningful upgrades that work for your space and your lifestyle.
Thinking about a summer refresh? Now’s the time to get on the calendar. We’d love to hear about your project and help bring your vision to life.