September 22 marks the first day of fall, and it’s the perfect time to begin transitioning our interiors from the light, relaxed feeling of summer to the warmth and coziness of the new season. Fall’s natural palette offers plenty of inspiration, with rich shades of pumpkin, russet, warm brown, caramel, and golden yellow bringing an inviting sense of comfort indoors. Rather than making dramatic changes, I like to think of fall decorating as layering, by introducing a few carefully chosen colors, textures, and accessories that complement the existing design of a home.
One of the easiest ways to embrace the season is by changing pillows and throws. Replace lightweight summer fabrics with cozy textures such as velvet, chenille, wool, or chunky knits in warm autumnal shades. A pumpkin-colored accent pillow or a rust-colored throw can instantly make a neutral sofa feel more seasonal without overwhelming the room. Area rugs can also make a significant difference, particularly as temperatures begin to drop. Consider adding a rug with subtle patterns or warm tones to define a seating area and create a softer, more comfortable feeling underfoot. These simple additions can make a room feel noticeably cozier without requiring a major redesign.
Accessories provide another easy opportunity to bring fall indoors. Candles (with real flames or with faux LED flames) add warmth and atmosphere, while a collection of candles in varying heights can create a beautiful glow on a dining or coffee table. I use large LED candles with rechargeable batteries in my fireplace every fall and winter. With a flick of the remote control, I turn on a warm glow every evening. Tableware is another detail that can transform a space for the season. Try incorporating earthy-toned napkins, textured placemats, ceramic serving pieces, or amber and gold accents for an understated fall table. Natural elements such as branches, dried grasses, pinecones, or seasonal flowers can also add color and texture while bringing a bit of the outdoors inside. Bittersweet is a personal favorite, but the berries and husks can get a little untidy if they drop off, as they are prone to do!
The beauty of seasonal decorating is that it doesn’t require starting over. A thoughtfully chosen combination of pillows, throws, rugs, lighting, and accessories can completely change the mood of a room while allowing the larger investment pieces to remain in place. As an interior designer, I encourage clients to choose fall accents that work naturally with their existing color palette rather than simply following every seasonal trend. With a few warm colors and inviting textures layered throughout the home, September can be the beginning of a beautiful transition toward the cozy, comfortable feeling that makes fall such a special time of year.
Beautiful, warm russet tones
Autumn inspiration with paisley and stripes
I love the blend of fall colors offered by a cozy braided rug