This summer has been busy from the start—an anniversary trip to Savannah, a flooded kitchen floor from a busted fridge filter, VBS, swim lessons and swim team. With all of that going on, I’ve leaned into simple, low-fuss decorating around the house so the spaces feel calm instead of cluttered.
I mentioned a pared-back approach in my living room tour last week and carried that same simple summer style into the kitchen. Open shelves and a few thoughtfully chosen accents make the space feel seasonal without being overdone.
I cleared the spring decor off the shelves and started fresh with a “less is more” mindset. The color and scent of a peach candle inspired the palette—a soft peach tone paired with turquoise accents and plenty of greenery for a relaxed summer look.
I had some faux peach stems in my collection and used them with lamb’s ear to create a simple, farmhouse-style centerpiece. Faux florals and fruit are workhorses for seasonal decor—they store well and look fresh year after year.
Those peach stems were a Southern Living store find in Huntsville, Alabama last year. I wish I could point you to the exact ones online because they’re such a perfect, summery touch—faux fruit can add charming color without the upkeep.
I introduced turquoise melamine plates and bowls on the open shelves. They have the look of pottery but are durable for everyday use—perfect for families and casual summer entertaining. The color ties back to the living room accents and gives the kitchen a bright, cohesive feel.
On the eat-in table, I kept the centerpiece casual: faux lemons in a mango wood bowl and faux strawberries in a small ceramic basket. These pieces are seasonal without being fussy, and they store away easily when the season changes.
I added a few coastal touches—resin starfish and other small accents—to bring a relaxed, summery vibe without overwhelming the space. These small details complement the turquoise dishes and peach tones for a cohesive, inviting kitchen.
My lemon wreath sits on the Fintorp hanging system beside the chalkboard. I kept the chalkboard simple this year—no elaborate chalk art—so the kitchen stays breezy and easy to live in.
If you enjoyed this quick kitchen tour, there’s a fuller look at the living room mantel in the linked post. Together, the spaces show how a few well-chosen items—soft colors, faux fruit, and durable tableware—can create a welcoming summer home without a lot of effort.
Do you simplify your decor when life gets hectic? I tend to clear out items for donation and keep only what feels useful or joyful—less clutter equals less stress. I’d love to hear how you handle seasonal decorating when your schedule fills up.
Decor Source:
Sources on the kitchen shelves:
- Turquoise plates and bowls
- Georgia Peach Candle
- Candle wick trimmer
- Large blue glass vase
- Weathered window frame cutout
- Driftwood orbs (similar available online)
- Cutting board
- Eucalyptus wreath
- Wicker chair
- Medallion indoor/outdoor pillow
- Faux fiddle leaf fig (similar)
- Utensil crock
- Chippy corbel (similar)
- Metal and wood barstool (similar)
- Faux ferns and woven planters from IKEA
Sources in the eat-in kitchen area:
- Painted starfish
- Turquoise plates and bowls
- Hyacinth placemat
- X-back chairs
- Chandelier
- Navy striped curtains
- Bamboo blinds
- Curtain rod