July 8, 2024 – With the arrival of warm weather, homes become the perfect setting for spending time with friends and family. Hosting guests in the summer can be a real pleasure—or turn into a nightmare if you’re not prepared. What if you could enjoy it to the fullest without any stress? CULMIA, a real estate developer with more than 8,000 homes delivered across more than 126 developments throughout Spain, presents its tips for transforming any home into an ideal summer retreat for sharing, inspired by the top lifestyle trends for summer 2025.

1. Make your home feel like summer the moment you walk in the door

What would you think if you visited a house in the summer and it was gray and dark? First impressions matter. So choose colors that evoke summer and a cheerful mood, and don’t be afraid to incorporate them into your home:

• A buttery yellow—warm and cheerful—perfect for throw pillows or lightweight blankets.
• Deep blues and fresh greens, perfect for textiles or table decorations that evoke the sea and nature.
• Bordeaux, which adds a touch of sophistication and elegance even to relaxed settings.

Do you need to paint the whole house? No, it’s all about making small changes that make a big difference: swap out the cushion covers or place a vase of wildflowers on the table. That way, your home will already feel like summer before you can say “hello.”

2. Unexpected Guests: How to Sleep Well Without an Extra Room

You don’t need a big house for everyone to sleep well. The key is in versatile solutions:

• A good sofa bed can be a lifesaver in the summer.
• Inflatable beds are quick to set up, comfortable, and take up little space.
• A folding bed or tatami-style bed can be easily stored away after the weekend

Keep a “guest kit” on hand (a towel, a bottle of water, or a nightlight), and your guests will be delighted.

3. Open spaces: Less is more when there are more people

When your home gets cluttered, organization is key. Get rid of what you don’t use, clear off surfaces, and focus on visual order. Your home will look bigger, feel fresher, and be more comfortable for everyone. Tips?

• Dual-purpose furniture (ottomans with storage, extendable tables).
• Open shelving instead of closed cabinets.
• Decorative baskets to keep things organized without sacrificing style.

4. Balconies and Terraces That Bring People Together

Whether you have a narrow balcony or a large terrace, lOutdoor spaces can become your favorite spot this summer. CULMIA recommends:

• Create a chill-out area with mats, light blankets, and extra-large pillows.
• Add a small folding table for impromptu dinners.
• Add outdoor rugs and plants to define the space and decorate it.

5. Plants, Textures, and Objects with Soul: Decorate to Welcome Guests

Hosting guests isn’t just about making beds. It’s about making your home say something about you:

• Mix and match different sets of tableware to give your home a unique look.
• Add plants (indoor palm trees, herbs in the kitchen, or hanging pots).
• Use natural materials such as linen, jute, or rattan for tablecloths, covers, or furniture.

And here’s one more tip: mix personal mementos with decorative elements. A home with a story always wins people over.

6. Light That Invites You to Stay

Good lighting can transform any evening. Having friends over? Combine dimmable LED lights , decorative wall sconces, and statement lampsto create different moods. For outdoor dinners, don’t forget:

• Solar-powered garlands or lanterns.
• Scented candles with citronella.
• Portable lamps for side tables.

7. Technology for a Smart Summer

Home automation and comfort go hand in hand. This summer, more homes are adding:

• Smart blinds that regulate the amount of light and heat entering a room.
• Temperature sensors that effortlessly adjust the environment.
• Voice assistants for controlling music, lighting, or climate control.

8. Set up a home theater or a safe play area for kids: Yes, it’s possible

If you’re hosting guests with children, you’ll need a Plan B. Set aside specific spaces for them:

• A corner with a projector and cushions turns into a movie theater.
• If they’re younger, use an enclosed space as a safe play area, with soft rugs, cushions, and some decorative toys.

While they’re busy, you can enjoy the afternoon shade on the terrace. It’s a win-win.

“Summer is an invitation to open up our homes. You don’t need a complete renovation—you just need to know what to highlight and how to create welcoming, cool, and functional spaces,” explain Cristina Ontoso, CULMIA’s sales and marketing director.

We recommend reading this press release while listening to our playlist “Destino, tu hogar.”