The summer heat and humidity can be challenging, but with thoughtful and aesthetic home design, you can stay cool and comfortable while embracing sustainability simultaneously. In our blog, we share five expert tips to help you beat the heat efficiently and eco-consciously – both for the planet and your wallet.

1) Smart Home Systems… that are really smart!

Every wonder if a smart home system can really be smart? When you choose the right system, it can save you time, energy, and automatically boost your comfort. By combining sensors and automation controls, your smart home can regulate temperature and humidity, purify air, reduce energy consumption, and simplify lighting and blind control to create the perfect mood. Integrating smart cooling and dehumidification—especially in tropical climates like Hong Kong—helps manage heat and moisture effectively, reducing mold, protecting furniture, and improving air quality. These systems learn your habits and adjust settings automatically, lowering your energy bills and carbon footprint.

When selecting a home automation system, opt for a flexible, open platform that can easily upgrade as technology evolves. KNX, the worldwide standard for home and building control, supports lighting, HVAC, security, energy management, and more, while integrating with popular voice assistants like Google Home. Keep physical switches simple to avoid clutter and additional stress —let your smart system be the central control hub for all devices. This approach streamlines your home’s operation, making it more efficient, comfortable, and future-proof.

2) Windows & Window Coverings

Windows are a major source of heat gain in summer, accounting for up to 87% of indoor heat increase. The best option is to change your windows to double glazed if possible. During hot and sunny times of the day, sheer curtains or blinds can help to block out heat while still allowing natural daylight to illuminate your interior. You can also consider adding UV sticker film to your windows which help block harmful rays while maintaining natural light in your home. Plus, don’t forget to think about your home’s orientation. East-Facing Windows receive strong, direct sunlight in the early morning. This morning sun is bright but generally less intense than afternoon sun, providing natural light that can energize spaces like bedrooms or breakfast areas. After midday, east-facing rooms tend to cool down as the sun moves away. West-Facing Windows face the late afternoon and evening sun, which is typically hotter and more intense than morning sun. This can cause significant heat gain during the hottest part of the day, making rooms uncomfortably warm in summer afternoons. Opening and closing your curtains manually or automatically with sensors connected to a home automation system to reduce heat gain can increase comfort and lower your need for cooling.  

3) Air Flow and Humidity

Maintaining good airflow and controlling humidity are essential for comfort and energy efficiency, no matter where you live. In regions with high humidity, especially during warmer months, consider using a whole-home dehumidifier to keep indoor moisture levels consistent. This helps reduce the sticky, uncomfortable feeling that comes with excess humidity and can save energy by easing the load on your air conditioning system—when humidity is balanced, your AC doesn’t have to work as hard to cool your home. To promote natural cooling, design your space to allow cross ventilation by placing windows or vents on opposite sides of rooms, encouraging fresh air to flow through. Adding ceiling or standing fans can boost this airflow, creating a gentle breeze that makes warm days more comfortable.

Using energy-efficient dehumidifiers or humidifiers helps maintain optimal humidity levels without wasting energy, improving both comfort and indoor air quality. These simple, eco-friendly strategies reduce reliance on air conditioning and can be adapted to various climates and homes around the world. By combining good ventilation, humidity control, and smart technology, you can create a healthier, more comfortable living environment while minimizing your environmental impact.

4) Summer Bedding

Choosing the right bedding can make a big difference in how cool you feel at night. Organic linen bedding is the top choice for summer because of its natural breathability and moisture-wicking properties. It has thousands of tiny pores to allow heat to dissipate and absorb moisture without feeling damp, keeping you cool and dry. Additionally, opting for bright, light-colored bedding can reflect sunlight and create a fresh, airy atmosphere in your bedroom. These vibrant hues not only enhance your comfort but also contribute to a cheerful summer vibe, making your space a relaxing retreat during those warm nights.

5) Outdoor Cooling

Extend your comfort outdoors by creating a cool and inviting outdoor living space using simple, eco-friendly strategies. Start by installing outdoor shading such as umbrellas, pergolas, or retractable awnings to block direct sunlight and reduce heat buildup. Incorporate plenty of greenery—trees, shrubs, and climbing vines provide natural shade and cool the air through transpiration. Adding an outdoor water fountain can also help create a refreshing microclimate with the soothing sound and cooling effect of evaporating water. Additionally, choose light-colored decor and surfaces to reflect sunlight rather than absorb it, keeping your outdoor space cooler throughout the day.

By combining these outdoor cooling tips with smart technology, thoughtful window treatments, natural ventilation, and sustainable textiles indoors, you can design a home that stays comfortable and cool all summer long while reducing your environmental impact. Liquid Interiors is here to help you create stylish, sustainable spaces that extend your comfort seamlessly from the inside out, turning your home and outdoor areas into refreshing retreats that you’ll love to enjoy.