If the non-stop barrage of vacation posts on your social feed is giving you a serious case of FOMO, we’re here to tell you that you needn’t book a trip to the Amalfi Coast or stay at a bougie beachside hotel to make the most of your summer. Whether your summer plans involve working on a 2,000-piece puzzle with friends, experimenting with craft cocktail recipes in your kitchen, or turning your backyard into your own personal pool club, you can make this summer one to remember. Read on for our top 10 ways to level up your summer vacation at home and find more summer-ready finds and activities in the Design Milk Shop.
Finally – an inflatable pool that design lovers and their little ones can enjoy. Mylle pools are a must-have for keeping cool in the summer heat and come in an array of fun, modern prints and patterns that’ll spruce up your yard. They’re made of an ultra-durable heavyweight vinyl material that’ll outlast any conventional kiddie pool and have an easy to use inflate and deflate valve for a quick and painless set up.
$115
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If summer camp wasn’t in the cards this year, Haus’ fun and modern playhouse is sure to keep kids entertained and engaged for hours (indoors and out!). Inspired by modernist design, this chic playhouse boasts a clean, minimal look that leaves plenty of room for kids to explore their creativity – let them go wild and paint to their heart’s content (just make sure to use washable paint), then simply wipe it clean and create something new!
$149
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For an on-brand summer activity, look to this set of cookout themed mini puzzles from Areaware. Complete with a watermelon slice, burger, beer can, and a s’more, every miniature jigsaw puzzle in this summery set is less than 12″ x 12″ when assembled, making them a great bite-sized break from your phone or TV screen. For a fun challenge, split the set up among friends and see who can complete theirs the fastest!
$60
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This 500-piece jigsaw puzzle from Ordinary Habit’s latest drop captures the dreamy essence of a slow summer afternoon. Designed by Italy-based artist Lida Ziruffo, Home Flowering is full of colorful and creative details that make it a blast to piece together – from the vibrant dried flowers hanging from the ceiling and the greenery beyond the window, to the freshly baked pie and adorable kittens cozying up at the kitchen table. Besides, once you’re done, you’ll have a new piece of wall art to display!
$50
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Let the kids in your life channel their inner architect with this Bauhaus-inspired play set. Complete with 40 interlocking pieces (and limited-edition silk screen prints!), there’s no limit to the creative structures kids can create – from a playhouse tower to a winding maze. The set is intuitively designed to captivate your little one’s attention and encourage independent play. And with the set’s bright colors and ultra-modern patterns, you’ll be happy to keep it on permanent display in your backyard or living room!
$169 (15% off!)
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Nothing quite like some friendly competition to spice up your summer at home. Next time you play one-on-one, know that the Round 21 Mini Hoop is ready to play – just attach the steel rim and net to the shatterproof backboard and you’re good to go. We love the modern and bold pattern on this hoop, and the color and playfulness it brings to indoor and outdoor spaces. Hang it over a door in your home (don’t worry it comes with protective padding) or take it outside to turn your backyard into home court.
$59
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While the Mon Oncle BBQ can technically be used anywhere thanks to its portable, briefcase-like design, having one on hand will take your at-home grilling game to the next level. When not in use, it takes on the look of a retro briefcase, complete with nylon straps and a leather handle for easy transport. Set it on your tabletop, and it transforms into a convenient and compact barbecue solution that grills just as good as it looks. Our favorite part? It’s practically designed to be easy to dismantle, easy to clean, and easy to stow away – making it a perfect summertime essential.
$450
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Perfect for enjoying your favorite cold drinks al-fresco, W&P’s Porter Glass is a summertime staple. The durable glass cup has a protective silicone wrap (that comes in a variety of soft, sorbet-like shades!) so you can take it with you on walks around the neighborhood, in the pool, or on a picnic without a worry. The best part? With every use of this stylish, reusable cup, you’re saving a disposable plastic cup from the landfill! And it’s dishwasher safe – what could be better?
$25
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Summers at home mean you can “stay out” as long as you like, and Pablo Designs’ portable lantern means you can keep the good times going long after the sun goes down. Designed with a curved leather handle and available in luxe, chrome, brass, gun metal, and matte finishes, the Bola Lantern brings a crisp and contemporary look to indoor and outdoor spaces alike. On top of the warm ambient glow it projects, the Bola’s spherical shape is a modern and timeless classic that’ll never go out of style – plus, the reflective disc base helps amp up the light for added visual interest.
$450
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Backyard hangs never looked better than with the Bend Goods Hot Seat. Intricately made using bent wire, the newly updated Hot Seat has a cool, modern look and a more compact form that’ll spruce up outdoor spaces of every size. The powder-coated finish makes it a perfect fit for indoor and outdoor spaces alike, and it comes in a variety of fun, summer-ready shades!
$780
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Upgrading your summer at home with the help of these modern finds? Show us how and tag us at @designmilk to be reposted on our Instagram!
