Kellie Richardson: Easy hacks to glow up your home for summer gatherings
Announcement posted by Invigorate PR 19 Aug 2025
Celebrity interior designer Kellie Richardson shares her top styling secrets for creating a light, bright, welcoming home this summer
With summer just around the corner, now is the time to get your home ready for barbeques, birthday parties and those long, lazy evenings spent with friends and family. According to celebrity interior designer and founder of Kurved by Design, Kellie Richardson, creating the perfect entertaining space isn't about spending big, it's about making smart styling choices that make your home feel light, bright and irresistibly inviting.
Richardson is the global brand ambassador for Barelli Bathrooms and a recognised authority on Feng Shui, specialising in creating positive, welcoming living spaces by applying time-honoured design principles.
"Summer is the season for connection," Richardson said.
"When people walk into your home for a party or get-together, they want to feel instantly relaxed and welcome. The atmosphere you create sets the tone for the whole occasion."
Start with light and airflow
Nothing says summer like a home that feels open and fresh. Throw open windows and doors to invite in breezes, pull back heavy curtains and use sheer drapes or blinds to let natural light flood in.
"If your home feels dark and heavy, your guests will too," Richardson said.
"Light and air are free design tools, use them to lift the mood before anyone even sits down."
Richardson also recommended placement of decorative lamps on side tables and sideboards and wrapping outdoor potted plants with solar lighting. Solar garden lights are also ideal for garden beds and pathways to illuminate areas of the outdoor area and yard.
Bring summer colour and texture into every space
Summer styling thrives on colour and vibrancy. Swap out dark or heavy accessories for pops of fresh colour in cushions, throws and rugs. Think ocean blues, coral pinks, lemon yellow or leafy greens.
Richardson recommended swapping winter-weight fabrics like wool and velvet for lightweight cottons, linens and breathable blends.
"Natural fabrics not only feel better in summer, they move with the breeze and give a relaxed, effortless vibe," she said.
Even small swaps, such as bright placemats, patterned napkins or a fresh table runner, can completely change the feel of a dining space.
Use furniture to encourage connection
Whether it's a casual BBQ on the deck or cocktails inside, people naturally gather in comfortable, well-defined spaces. Arrange seating in small clusters rather than pushing it against the walls and add stools or poufs for extra guests.
"Outdoor lounges, low tables and lightweight chairs you can move around are perfect for creating a flexible entertaining layout," Richardson said.
"The aim is to make it easy for people to mingle without feeling cramped or awkward."
Style your table and serve ware for impact
Richardson said summer entertaining is the perfect excuse to freshen up your serve ware.
"Matching isn't as important as choosing pieces that feel joyful and relaxed," she said.
She suggested mixing coloured glassware with neutral plates, adding a bold jug for water or cocktails and using timber or stone platters for grazing boards. For a more elevated look, layer linen napkins with patterned plates and small bud vases down the centre of the table.
"Many of these things can be purchased affordably online, during sales or even through second-hand stores or markets. The key to styling is to find unique or hero pieces that lift the table, space or entire room," Richardson said.
Add life with plants and greenery
Greenery brings freshness, movement and colour into a space instantly. Indoor plants such as monsteras, fiddle leaf figs or palms make a big statement in living areas, while smaller potted herbs or succulents are perfect for kitchens and outdoor dining tables.
"Even if you're not a plant person, a few bunches of fresh flowers or greenery from the garden in a jug or vase can transform a room," Richardson said.
"It's an easy, low-cost way to make a home feel alive."
Don't forget the bathroom
While most of the action happens in the living areas, guests will inevitably visit your bathroom and it's one of the most revealing spaces in the home.
"A clean, well-styled bathroom says you've thought about every detail," Richardson said.
"Add fresh hand towels in a summer colour, a scented candle and keep the vanity clutter-free. It's a small touch that makes a big impression.
"For extra impact, look at adding scented hand soap and a luxurious hand cream dispenser next to the bathroom sink so guests can pamper themselves while using your amenities."
It's all in the details
Richardson said the secret to creating a warm, welcoming summer home is in the details; fresh scents, soft lighting, uncluttered surfaces and personal touches that reflect your style.
"You don't need a full renovation to host a great summer party," she said.
"With a few thoughtful changes, from colour and fabric swaps to fresh plants and inviting table settings, you can make your home a place people love to be. That's what summer entertaining is all about."
About Kellie Richardson
Kellie Richardson is one of Australia's most respected interior designers and the founder of Kurved by Design. Known for her timeless aesthetic, media presence and accessible approach to style, Kellie has transformed countless homes with her signature blend of sophistication and functionality. A sought-after commentator on design trends, home styling and Feng Shui, she is also a breakfast radio host and regular guest on national media. Through her work, Kellie empowers Australians to create beautiful, liveable spaces that reflect their values and lifestyle.