Summer is officially here, and with it, comes that laid-back, easy, breezy tropical vibe that we’ve all been waiting for. Creating a tropical aesthetic can instantly transport you to an island getaway without ever having to leave your home.

If you’re looking to infuse your space with a touch of paradise this summer, curating a tropical aesthetic is exactly how to get there. From coconut-ty home fragrances to bamboo floor lamps, here’s how to create that perfect summer oasis right at home.

Design with water features.

You can’t have the beach without water, which is why adding a water feature to your space can mimic that tropical vibe you’re looking for.

For example, a tabletop fountain can create a soothing sound that’s kind of like tropical rain. Or, a small indoor pond or waterfall can be a striking focal point in a foyer. Or, if you’d rather keep it simple, a large fish tank filled with tropical fish is a great way to add color.

Any of these features can promote a relaxed vibe where you can sit back, relax, and feel like you’re at a tropical beach resort.

Mix in unexpected textures.

A lot of modern homes are decorated using items made from common materials like wood, porcelain, or glass. But decorating for a tropical aesthetic is a little bit different.

Instead of incorporating items made from smooth and sleek materials, tropical aesthetics make use of items in unexpected textures like shaggy rugs, coarse seagrass baskets, or even faux fur accents in tropical prints.

Add just a touch of metallic.

Metallic pairs really well with tropical aesthetics, but you have to be careful not to overdo it. Because it’s such a bold finish, a little bit goes a long way. So here are some of the ways you can integrate it into your decor without overwhelming the space:

• Hang copper pendant lights with woven rattan shades
• Display tropical plants in metallic planters or pots
• Decorate your mantel with golden sculptures of tropical birds or sea creatures
• Mount gold-framed mirrors onto tropical wallpaper

Experiment with tropical scents.

No tropical getaway is complete without good vibes. And the best way to create a beachy ambiance is through the senses.

Aromatherapy products featuring tropical scents like coconut, pineapple, or jasmine are everywhere during the summertime. So you can grab candles, incense, or whatever you like to promote a bright and cheerful vibe for your home.

Decorate with tropical plants.

Part of what makes the tropical aesthetic appealing is its connection to nature. And if you’re into flora and fauna, now is the perfect time to break out your favorite tropical plants.

Palm fronds, monstera leaves, and hibiscus flowers are all popular choices for tropical decor. You can put them in woven baskets for a cute kitchen display, or hang them from the ceiling using macramé plant hangers. Or, if you’re up for the challenge, create a DIY living wall by arranging a variety of plants and vines.

Add bold, unconventional furniture.

When it comes to curating a tropical aesthetic, bold is always the right idea, especially as it relates to furniture.

Instead of decorating with boring, traditional furniture, go for pieces that make a statement. Think chairs or sofas in unconventional shapes like a round rattan chair or a chaise lounge with tropical fabric upholstery. Or maybe something like a driftwood coffee table or a bamboo sideboard can serve as functional art pieces, which help add to the tropical aesthetic.

Use lighting to create a tropical effect.

If you’ve ever been to a luau, you probably know that lighting plays a major role in creating a tropical mood. And luckily, you can recreate that ambiance right at home.

When it comes to tropical lighting, dim is the name of the game. Warm, soft lighting from rattan table lamps, bamboo floor lamps, or seashell-shaped fairy lights can really up the ante on your tropical vibe.

Or, if you prefer something more permanent, try installing dimmer switches on your light fixtures so you can control the lighting levels yourself.