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October heralds the true beginning of fall, and I, for one, couldn’t be happier. We’ve officially entered the cozy season, the season that inspires sitting back and enjoying a cozy night in. So I was wondering how interior designers can embrace the season in their own homes? While you might think their spaces are filled with the latest trends of the season, the designers I spoke with took a simpler approach. Read on for some fall home update ideas straight from the pros. Their answers may surprise you!
Decorate with flowers
Decorating with flowers is appropriate any time of year, but Sarah West of Sarah West Interiors says it’s a special part of her fall routine. “Every Sunday, I go to the local farmers market and pick flowers. It’s something I look forward to every week and it’s a simple and effective way to freshen up my home for the fall,” she explains. “Instead of following the latest fall decorating trends, I prefer to keep things subtle – using fresh florals and cozy scents to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.”
West recommends looking for darker-colored flowers this time of year. “In the fall, I’m partial to florals like amaranth, calla lilies, and dried shallots. I love rich, deep tones like fuchsias and burgundies that bring seasonal warmth to any room,” she shares.
If you’re lucky enough to have your own plants, you don’t need to look anywhere but your backyard. “I like to cut a branch from the Japanese maple tree in bloom in my yard that’s starting to turn red and orange,” says Danielle Baranis of Danielle Baranis Design. “It conveys everything I love about autumn. It’s not forced and feels right in any room.
Make your lighting comfortable
Lighting is one of the few ideas that is often overlooked when it comes to fall home renovations. The light source and the tone of the light are especially important when you want to create a cozy atmosphere. Let’s face it, fall wouldn’t be fall without candles. “Accentuating antiques and beautiful woodwork in a space by adding tapered sconces is an old-school way to create a moody environment,” Devika Kanadé As Itih company says. “The yellow glow of the candle flame really adds a warm feeling.”
Taper candles look gorgeous on any surface, from woodwork like Kanadé to mantles, coffee tables, and dining tables. Another way to add warm lighting without candles? Replace the light bulb. “If your space typically uses white light, swap it out for lower-wattage yellow bulbs to create the same feel. [It’s] An easy, inexpensive swap to change the color and tone of your space,” says Kanadé.
Let nature be your guide
Nature is the greatest designer, and Kanadé himself loves bringing the outdoors indoors.
Kanadé recommends incorporating dried flowers and collected objects into your home, and creating your own décor with natural materials. “If you melt taper candles all over to create a unique candle holder, an unusually shaped piece of wood can be used as a centerpiece,” she suggests.
Add a warm aroma
Who doesn’t love the smell of pumpkin and cinnamon? Fall is one of the most incredible seasons for fragrance, especially for your home. “Smell plays a huge role in creating a cozy atmosphere,” West gushes. “One of my favorites is Aesop’s Istros Aromatique Room Spray, which has a smoky and floral blend that’s perfect for fall.”
Whether you choose to place candles, room sprays, or reed diffusers in your home for fall, choose scents that are grounding, warm, and spicy for fall. “When it comes to candles, I love Aesop’s Ptolemy Aromatique candles for their earthy scent, and Jenni Kayne’s candles, which add a sense of comfort to any space,” West continues.
Everything is simple in Baranis’ home. “The Fresh Market brings out cinnamon brooms every year, and for me they are a go-to and regular every fall,” she said. “I love the smell and the charm it has against the corner. It brings warmth and coziness to my breakfast room and livens up my kitchen.
Incorporate jewel tones
Color is probably the most obvious idea when it comes to fall home decorating. But don’t think you need to decorate your home in bright orange and red! “I like to highlight dark and rich colors, like jewel tones,” Kanadé shares. Sapphire, ruby, and emerald green are great colors to pair with this time of year, and Baranis agrees. “Saffron and mustard are my year-round favorites, but they really come alive in the fall,” she says. “They pair well with all fall tones. From freshly pressed napkins to floral arrangements, this hue blends perfectly with everything fall.
Decorate with brown tones
Brown continues to be in the spotlight this year and it’s the perfect color for fall. Kanadé has also noticed this trend and likes to use different shades of wood as well as brown paint. Don’t know where to start? Karnad suggested looking upward. “A fun, temporary way to add character to your fall space is to paint your ceiling a darker color, like brown, cherry, or burgundy,” she suggests. “It adds depth to the space without overwhelming it, adds mood, and creates a stunning backdrop with simpler light tones on the floor.”
If you’re a little nervous about using dark ceilings year-round, Kanadé is quick to tell you that paint is only temporary. “Going into spring, you can always repaint the ceiling a lighter color,” she says. “The beauty of paint!”
Layer and blend textures
A cozy fall home would feel incomplete without soft, luxurious textures. “Fall is a great time to mix textures and layering in your dining room table and living space,” says Canard. “Throws made from velvet, tweed and corduroy are a great way to use materials and add lots of warmth.”
In addition to cozy throws, consider switching out your curtains for something softer, like velvet. There’s an art to layering pillows on your sofa, and the mix of colors and textures makes it especially appealing. If layered textures start to feel complicated and fussy, take a step back. Remember to keep it simple. “When it comes to fall looks, my philosophy is to keep it simple—fresh flowers, warm scents, and a cozy blanket by the fire are all you need to embrace the natural beauty of the season,” she says.
Dust off seasonal tableware
Fall home renovation ideas are not only perfect for fall, but also for getting ready for the upcoming holidays. If you’re taking on hosting duties this year, it’s time to dust off your seasonal dinnerware and dinnerware. Kanadé encourages not hiding it for special occasions Use it as an unexpected decoration. “Bring out finer china and unique dinnerware, but using them as display pieces rather than functional items can change the style of your space and give it a whole new look,” she encourages. “Dark glassware is also simple but effective.”
