How to cool a room in summer? 7 ways to deal with the heat in your home
At home we rest and recuperate after a long day. In the winter, we seek warmth and in the summer, we seek refuge from the heat, which can be particularly harsh on city dwellers. In order to feel comfortable within our own four walls, we don't have to invest in an air-conditioning system straight away - a few simple tricks are often enough to ensure a pleasant temperature at home even in the middle of summer.
High temperatures reduce the comfort of everyday life and have a negative impact on our general wellbeing and quality of sleep. They are particularly troublesome for occupants of flats on higher floors, in blocks of flats with large windows or without adequate ventilation.
When the summer heat takes its toll, it is worth reaching for simple and effective solutions to reduce the heating in the room. Here are 7 tried and tested ways to maintain a pleasant temperature even on the hottest days.
1. ROLLER BLINDS AND CURTAINS - AN EFFECTIVE SHIELD AGAINST THE SUN'S RAYS
Most summer heat enters the home through the windows. The good news is that this can be easily counteracted! All it takes is a cleverly chosen shield. Thick, light-coloured blackout curtains, sunscreen films or external blinds act as a shield: They reflect the light, stopping the sun's rays, thus limiting the heat build-up and helping to keep the interior pleasantly cool. Classic roller blinds also protect the interior from excessive heat, while allowing you to regulate the amount of light coming in and provide more privacy.
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THE COOL EFFECT OF LIGHT COLOURS IN AN ARRANGEMENT, OR HOW TO COOL DOWN A FLAT WITH COLOURS
On hot days, it is not only the temperature, but also the way we perceive a space that affects our mood. Light colours - such as white, pastel blues and beige - optically "cool down" the interior, making it appear fresher and more airy. In combination with light materials, such as transparent glass(An vase) and airy textiles, they help to create a pleasantly refreshing atmosphere.
To enhance this effect, it is also worth reaching for furniture with a light matt finish, which reflects light and does not overwhelm the interior. The Into collection with grey beige fronts will subtly complement such an arrangement, emphasising its cool, harmonious character. In combination with light-coloured walls, the white lamellas will also go well, creating a coherent, modern base conducive to summer relaxation.
3. HOW TO COOL THE ROOM? CHOOSE LIGHTWEIGHT AND BREATHABLE FABRICS
On hot days, what we wrap our interiors in is of great importance. Light, natural fabrics such as linen or cotton allow air to circulate freely and regulate the room temperature effectively. Cotton or linen curtains or cushions "breathe", do not retain heat and improve thermal comfort during the day and night. Linen Linen cushions or a Merino blanket made from natural merino wool will work perfectly.
Find out more about building a cosy atmosphere in your home.
4. SCENT DIFFUSERS - A SUBTLE WAY TO COOL DOWN IN HOT WEATHER
Essential oils, e.g. from peppermint, eucalyptus or citrus fruits, guarantee a pleasant fragrance and are a natural way to cope with the heat. Their aromas have refreshing properties and give a subjective feeling of refreshment. If, in addition, their scent is released from an aesthetically pleasing diffuser, they also become a stylish design accent. Modern devices work quietly, so they can even be placed on the bedroom nightstand and increase sleep comfort.
5. COOL MICROCLIMATE THANKS TO POTTED PLANTS
Potted plants, such as ferns, ficus or areca palms, not only look beautiful, but also increase the humidity in the air, which helps to naturally lower the temperature in the room. Flowers also improve air quality, which in turn translates into a better mood. Placing them in bright, decorative covers will further brighten up the space and introduce an atmosphere of peace and harmony. To ensure that the plants retain their valuable properties and aesthetic appearance, it is worth remembering to clean them of dust regularly.
For inspiration, see: Flowers and plants for the home - turn your interiors into an oasis of greenery
6. VENTILATE THE ROOM AND HUMIDIFY THE AIR TO LOWER THE TEMPERATURE
Natural ventilation methods give the impression of cooling the air without the use of an air conditioner. In order to cool the flat, it is best to open the windows in the morning and evening when the temperature outside is lower. During the day, when the sun is shining the strongest, they should remain closed and curtained to limit the sun's rays entering the building.
On the hottest days, we can indulge in controlled short drafts to 'exchange' the air and refresh the space. An interesting cooling trick is to set up a running fan next to an open window to improve air circulation. To increase the cooling effect, you can place a bowl of ice in front of it - this will make the breeze more refreshing.
Discover also our inspirations for a cosy terrace and balcony.
7. REDUCE DOMESTIC SOURCES OF WARM AIR
How do you naturally cool your home? It is worth paying attention to limiting the generation of heat by electrical appliances. During the day, try to switch off unnecessary appliances such as TVs, lamps or chargers that unnecessarily raise the air temperature. The situation is similar with cooking. If possible, it's better to move it to the evening hours, when it's cooler outside, to avoid additional heat build-up in the kitchen and neighbouring rooms during the day.
Find out the best ways to separate the kitchen from the living room.
SUMMARY: HOW TO COOL YOUR FLAT IN SUMMER?
Natural methods of cooling a flat are an effective and economical way to combat the summer heat. The use of bright colours, potted plants, light fabrics or appropriate ventilation can create a pleasant microclimate without having to install air conditioning. With these simple measures, you can lower the temperature in the room, improving the comfort and well-being of the occupants.