Oh My Styled Life

Creating Your Summer Retreat: City Chic and Scenic Charm

Nothing says summer like your own personal oasis, whether you live in the bustling city or the tranquil countryside. Converting your home into a summer retreat can make the season even more enjoyable.

No matter the location, we’re revealing the secrets to creating a home that captures the essence of summer living. These inspired ideas from our talented designers and their recent projects will help you build your perfect summer retreat.

City Chic: Crafting a Modern Urban Oasis

Maximize Light and Space

For urban homes, maximizing natural light and space is key. Large windows can be strategically placed for privacy, allowing sunlight to flood the interior while offering stunning cityscape views. For this city home near Lake of the Isles in Minneapolis, the foyer sets the tone. It seamlessly connects the vibrant urban outdoors to the home’s modern interior. Stunning arched windows connect outside from within and saturate the space with natural light. A low-profile white bench offers a welcome, and even the rug continues the brick walkway seen along the exterior.

Streamline Interiors

City Living Interior Design O'hara Interiors — In this city home, we used leather furnishings and automated shades to blend style with functionality. The kitchen features a sleek quartzite countertop and ceramic tile backsplash, balancing elegance with practicality.

A clean, streamlined design can make a city home feel like a retreat from the hustle and bustle. Opt for minimalist furniture and built-in storage solutions to maintain a clutter-free environment. Varied materials, textures, and neutral patterns can add warmth and welcome to any home.

Read this blog post and learn how to maximize your storag e.

Outdoor Connection

Modern Home Design O'hara Interiors — The home’s proximity to Lake of the Isles makes the transition from urban living to outdoor enjoyment seamless, offering convenient access to activities like kayaking and cycling.

Even in the city, connecting indoor spaces with the outdoors is essential. Incorporate balconies, terraces, or patios to enjoy the fresh air and beautiful views.

Tips for your outdoor living spaces that will last you through the yea r.

Pastoral Charm: Designing a Serene Retreat

Embrace Nature

For those in the countryside, embracing the natural surroundings is a must. Large windows and open-concept designs can bring the beauty of the outdoors inside. In this new build just outside of Stillwater, we created spaces that flow effortlessly into the outdoor areas, allowing the landscape to become a part of the interior design.

Family-Friendly Spaces

Bunk Room Design In Stillwater Mn — A must-have for this family was a bunk room with full-size beds and a hidden bookcase door, providing a fun and practical solution for accommodating children and guests. The kitchen, with its walnut butcher block counter and ample storage, is perfect for family gatherings and meal preparation.

Country homes often cater to larger families and frequent visitors. Designing functional and practical spaces is crucial. This bunk room is perfect for hosting children and their friends, with built-in shelves and drawers for books and toys. Add a fun wallpaper to enhance the playful ambiance of the room!

Click here to check out more bunk room inspiration!

Outdoor Entertaining

Outdoor Living Design For Your Summer Retreat — The outdoor space was as important as the interior, including a pool house with a cooking and entertaining area, motorized shades for comfort, and a three-season porch with ceiling heaters, ensuring year-round enjoyment.

Creating dedicated outdoor entertaining areas enhances the summer experience in the countryside and invites you to spend more time in nature. Consider adding a pool house, a three-season porch, or an outdoor kitchen.

40 Outdoor Bar Ideas for Festive Entertain ing

Tips for Creating Your Summer Oasis

Maximize Natural Light: Use large windows and glass doors to bring in as much natural light as possible.

Streamline Interiors: Opt for minimalist designs and built-in storage to keep spaces clutter-free and functional.

Connect with the Outdoors: Incorporate balconies, patios, or terraces to create seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor living.

Embrace Nature: Use natural materials and colors to reflect the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Design for Functionality: Create practical spaces that cater to your lifestyle, whether it’s a kid-friendly bunk room or a spacious kitchen for entertaining.

Enhance Outdoor Areas: Invest in outdoor entertaining spaces like a pool house, outdoor kitchen, or three-season porch to make the most of summer living.

Whether you’re in the heart of the city or outside the city limits, creating a summer retreat can transform your home into a haven of relaxation and enjoyment. At O’Hara Interiors, we craft spaces that capture your best lifestyle, whether it’s the vibrancy of city life or the tranquility of the countryside, ensuring your home perfectly suits every aspect of your lifestyle.