10 ways to refresh your home for fall, according to an interior designer
Transform your space into an autumnal oasis with these easy (and budget-friendly) ideas.
Nights are getting cooler, the days shorter and no doubt you've had one (or two) of those pumpkin spice lattes. Your home decor should follow, allowing you to cozy up in the chillier evenings. While this takes a little effort to accomplish, not to worry — it can be easy and you don't need to spend a fortune. My interior designer know-how has got your back with simple and budget-friendly ways to get your home fall-ready.
August Grove Preserved Mixed Assortment Wreath
Illume Noble Holiday Midnight Pumpkin Glass Candle
Joss & Main Selma Cotton Throw Pillow
Home Soft Things Tweed Knitted Throw Blanket
Abstract Framed Canvas Prints, 3-Piece
Gracie Oaks Boxwood Topiary Artificial Plant
Rosalind Wheeler Glass Pumpkin & Gourd Set, 3-Piece
Red Barrel Studio Autumn Wheat Table Runner
Lucky Brand Plaid Sherpa Reversible Comforter Set, Queen
Spirit Linen Cotton Towel Set, 18-Piece
To start, we're going to swap out your color palette, change up your scents and warm up your rooms with the right textures for fall. Wayfair, one of my go-to retailers, has some lovely autumnal decor that will make this task even simpler. Ready to be inspired? Scroll down for my tips and top picks.
1. Start with the front door
Elevate your entry with seasonal decor that welcomes your guests with the right kind of vibe. Hang something pretty on the door, like the wreath below; add a new welcome mat that scrapes the mud off your boots and sends a seasonal message; or refresh your planters with chrysanthemums or some faux pumpkins. Have fun with your design — it will last through November.
While there are plenty of faux options out there, I love a preserved wreath for a more natural touch. This piece is a bit more delicate than something plastic, so it requires a covered entry — or use it inside on an inner door or over the mantel. A touch of metallic painted leaves makes this wreath holiday-worthy for the next two seasons.
"This wreath is beautiful! It’s smelled so wonderful in the box. I love the colors and it looks stunning on my front door," wrote a thrilled shopper.
2. Change up your scent
Interior design is more than furniture and accents. It's about setting a mood and that means reaching as many senses as possible. Don't forget your nose. The warm spicy smell of cinnamon and the earthiness of pumpkin will evoke fond memories for your friends and family.
A great way to emit the right scent for the season is a plant-based candle. Not only will it stimulate the olfactory cortex, it will create a cozy ambiance. This pumpkin-scented one does the trick.
I also love a pretty vessel that can be reused — upcycle this one to keep things environmentally friendly by repurposing it as a vase or container or for future votives.
3. Mix up the colors and textures
Change up your palette and add some cozy texture, like boucle, a faux sheepskin or corduroy. Choose rust, moss green, warm golds and other shades of autumn to create a seasonal oasis in your living room, den or bedroom. Keep your furniture neutral so you can change your accent palette each season for a fresh look.
This pillow comes in half a dozen colors, all suitable for the fall season — but I adore this olive tone. Its parquet corduroy pattern provides just the right texture for a casual look. Choose from three different sizes — use an 18- or 20-inch on the sofa and the 22-inch option on your bed.
Said a five-star reviewer: "The pillows are just what I was expecting. They're also firm but soft to give a nice support to my back."
4. Cozy up
It's a bit too early to put the heat on, but a toasty blanket will do the trick while you binge-watch your favorite Halloween movies. Cuddle up under a chunky throw that adds color and texture to your sofa or wing chair. It also looks pretty layered at the end of your bed.
This chunky throw comes in a bevy of colors, all suitable for the season — I'm partial to this pretty rust shade. The fringe on the end adds some fun detail. Plus, the poly-knit fabric means easy care in the washing machine.
Nearly 10,000 Wayfair shoppers give this accessory five stars. "This blanket is something I will keep with me all day — like no joke. It's comfortable and it’s big enough for anyone (unless you're really, really tall)."
5. Liven up the walls
Looking for a bigger impact? Change up your art. Quicker than a coat of paint, your walls can stand out with just the right canvas. Try this triptych over the sofa or bed to add some fall-inspired colors.
Three canvases, each sized 16 x 24 inches, are available in natural (shown), white or black frames. While art doesn't need to match your decor, these abstract designs — in pretty tones — will work well in modern, boho and eclectic settings.
"Colors are as vibrant as pictured. They were easy to hang although we didn’t use the hardware provided. Looks great over our large sectional sofa," said a buyer.
6. Keep it fresh
If you don't have a green thumb, a faux plant will do, like this boxwood topiary that works year-round. Add it to your dining table, the front porch or anywhere you need a touch of green. Pair with faux or real mini pumpkins and other fall decor to set the scene for the season.
There's no maintenance necessary for this 10-inch artificial plant that looks natural enough to trick the eye. It'll give your space — inside or out — a pop of green that lasts all year long.
A satisfied shopper said it best: "This topiary is just the right size to sit on a bookshelf. The base is very heavy so it will not topple over. The topiary is nice and bushy and not inexpensive looking. Just the thing I was looking for to put on my bookshelf."
7. Dress up mantels and tabletops
While there's no need to go overboard with decor, one or two accessories that nod to the season can be fun. I love a handmade object, like the glass pumpkins below. Made by artisans, it gives your home a special, unique touch, versus something that looks mass-produced.
Handcrafted by glassblowers, these pumpkins are special. The varying shapes allow them to be used together as a set or separately. Available in grays, reds and classic orange, they're pieces of art.
"The gourd set is beautiful in the gray swirl. Matches my decor perfectly," said one fan. Added another: "The pumpkins arrived in great shape and they look so festive with my other fall decorations. I recommend these to anyone checking them out."
8. Elevate your dining table
Dress up your holiday or everyday table with a classic runner that adds color and texture. Runners create a ground for your centerpiece, a pair of candlesticks or even your utilitarian lazy susan. It's a simple way to add some holiday spice to your eating area.
I love this delicately embroidered runner that can be used to dress up or down your table depending on the event. The earthy oatmeal-linen background is filled with subtle accents of autumn leaves in pretty gemstone colors.
It's a great option for holiday get-togethers: "A beautiful and high-quality runner for my autumn/Thanksgiving dining table. I love the subtle design and colors of the leaves," said a five-star fan.
9. Spice up your bedroom
And by that, I mean add some new decor. For the most impact, change up your bedding. It's practical to add a heavier comforter or duvet for the colder seasons. Plaids, checks and chunky textures work well for fall and winter. Keep it neutral and add pops of color with throw pillows and blankets. For instance, grab the set below and add autumn-friendly jewel tones now. Switch it up to reds and greens or royal and icy blues for winter.
Comfy and casual, Lucky Brand is more than your favorite jeans. A windowpane plaid reminds us of cozier times. The sherpa-lined reverse side keeps things uber warm, evoking the hygge lifestyle.
"I love the soft sherpa underside of this comforter. This is the perfect set for anyone, anywhere!" exclaimed a pleased purchaser. "Its colors are beautifully chosen to fit any room. This is a must-have for anyone looking for quality warmth and comfort that looks and feels like something luxurious but at an affordable price."
10. Beautify your bathroom
You can add autumn style to every room in the house, including the bathroom. A simple change of towels is an easy way to emerge from the summer months. Not everything has to be orange. Try a rich jewel tone like a plum or sapphire blue. Switch your reed diffuser to an earthier scent and add accent soaps in fall colors.
For a rich jewel tone, try a pop like this luscious raspberry-magenta shade. Other good options include deep mahogany or creamy birch. The 100% cotton towels are quick drying, which means warmth and comfort right out of the shower.
"Excellent quality and choice of colors. I purchased three sets of different colors for each of my bathrooms," a fan wrote.
The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
