Summer Cooling Tips

We just returned from Las Vegas where the temperature soared to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. There's nothing like 120 days and 100 degree nights to make home seem cool.

However, our days of 106 still feel HOT. Besides air conditioning, there are some interior design tricks that make your apparent room temperature feel cooler. Apparent room temperature means the way you perceive what you senses tell you, not the actual air temperature.

Make your eyes tell your brain that you feel cool in your rooms. Lighten up your accessories. Store extras that you don't need; uncluttered space feels lighter. Also, store dark colored accessories. Add refreshing green ferns and tropical plants.

Next, think about what your sense of touch tells you. Change out heavy fabrics until the weather changes.

Your sense of smell also influences the coolness. Use essential oils that remind you of the seaside or forest.

Your sense of hearing can play a role in coolness, too. Besides a water fountain, aquarium bubbles and soft tropical music also help refresh.

Don't forget your sense of taste. A tall glass of fresh lemonade or cold sherbert in a chilled sundae dish makes you feel pampered, which goes a long way towards making you feel comfortable during these hot days.

Enjoy summer!

Copyright (c) 2005 Jeanette J. Fisher
Joy to the Home
Design Psychology for Glorious Living and Top-Dollar Sales