Summer is fast approaching and there is no better time to give your home a tropical feel.

You don’t need to go on vacation for a taste of the exotic, and you don’t have to take a cruise to experience an ocean adventure. If you want to give your home that luxurious, fresh summer vibe, you’re in the right place! Read on to discover some ways you can make your home a tropical paradise – even if you’re landlocked like myself in the cornfields of the Midwest.

Pick out tropical artwork.

With places like Hobby Lobby, Michaels, and Jo-Ann Fabrics, you don’t need to spend a fortune to add some stunning pieces of art to your home. Opt for a wall canvas with tropical prints or designs. Anything from an exotic landscape to a pop-art pineapple piece will do the trick. And if you’re the crafty type, you could DIY it. There’s nothing cooler than displaying your own artwork for everyone to see.

Grab some shells.

Shells are an easy and affordable accessory that can look beautiful in any home. Plus, they are a great way to personalize your house, as you can collect shells whenever you go on vacation. You’ll be bringing a little bit of your holiday back with you – bonus points for incorporating memorable moments into your home decor! – and it will add a relaxing and special vibe to any room.

Focus on your bathroom.

What better place to incorporate a beach feel than the one room where water and relaxation converge? Make your bathroom fresh and invigorating by adding some tropical home decor. Switch your air freshener plug-in out for fruit scents like mango, lemon, coconut, or pineapple. And don’t be afraid to bring some color into the room with bold rugs, bright towel sets, or even a decorative accent wall.

Add a bed canopy.

A bed canopy is a unique feature in any home that can make you feel like island royalty. Not only will it add that desired tropical vibe to your bedroom, it will add a touch of romance for you and your S.O. Look for something lightweight that will flow and imitate an ocean breeze.

Use plants.

One of the easiest and most effective ways to give your home a tropical feel is to add the right plants. From windmill palm trees, tropical flowers, and bamboo, the possibilities are limitless. Adding some greenery to your decor instantly creates the sense of being on a Caribbean island. And if you’re what we call a “black thumb” like me, there’s nothing wrong with opting for plastic. No need to water them, just make sure you dust them once in a while.

Try out a new ceiling.

Feeling bold and want a big change? Change out your ceiling. Out with the old, in with the new! Or should I say in with the bamboo? Woven bamboo ceilings can turn your room into a tropical paradise! If you’re up for the design challenge, there are many styles you can choose from. Bamboo can also be used for an accent wall if the ceiling doesn’t seem a proper fit for you. Or, if you prefer to start small, use bamboo for window coverings to replace those old curtains.

Adjust your lighting.

The key to a tropical and fresh feeling in a home is to let as much natural light flood in as possible. You could also mix up your standard lighting with fun, colorful shades that mimic the bright colors of ocean life. Your choice of lighting makes a statement to anyone who comes inside your home.

Replace old pillows and cushions.

There is no denying that buying a new set of cushions and pillows can give your home an instant lift without breaking the bank. Plus, there are so many cool designs available today! Check out local craft stores or department stores for some that include cute vacation quips or quotes about relaxation.

Change out your fabrics.

Pick new fabrics with care and purpose by either reupholstering existing furniture pieces, or looking for ways to bring new fabrics in. Remove any dull shades and switch to brighter colors like yellow, orange, or even sea foam green. If you use throw blankets, find one to match your new tropical theme.

From small, temporary changes to larger and more permanent ones, there are various ways you can make your home more tropical.

Give your home that exotic vibe you’ve been seeking by trying out some of the tips above. Don’t forget to drop a line below and let me know how it turns out for you!