We know what you’re thinking: “I don’t have the time or money to redecorate my entire house for fall!” Don’t worry: There are plenty of ways to incorporate a cozy autumn theme into your home design without a big budget, or taking until winter to finish. We asked designers to share easy ways to make over your house for fall. It’s all about the accessories and colors—even small changes can make a big difference in your home. Just pack away your sisal rugs and linen pillows for next summer, and introduce chunky knitted throw blankets and candles to give off a warm glow. With a cozy and welcoming home for fall, you won’t mind being cooped up indoors (and your family and friends might invite themselves over!). Take a look at what the experts had to say and try a few out this autumn.
Switch Out Pillows and Throws
This is just about the easiest way to bring something seasonal into a space without spending too much money. “I like to add new pillows and throws around my house, when I can, as the seasons start to change,” says interior designer and Target home style expert Emily Henderson. “I’ll use thicker blankets with more texture on the back of my couch, or style them in a basket next to an accent chair.” Plus, this is the perfect time of year to experiment with sumptuous textiles. Bring in some chunky knits or faux fur for a luxe look.
Style the Mantel
When the days get crisper, nothing sounds nicer than getting cozy by the fireplace. Since you’ll spend a lot of time indoors, update the spots where you and your family will be congregating. “Make your fireplace the focal point of your living room by re-styling the mantel,” says interior designer Karen Vidal of Design Vidal. “Group a different piece of art and some objects from other areas of your home, then enjoy some new scenery by the flames.” It’s also a great opportunity to update your fireplace accessories—purchase a new basket for firewood or a decorative fireplace screen.
Mix In Prints
There’s nothing like curling up by the fire with a cozy Pendleton blanket or tartan throw. “The patterns of your home décor will naturally tell a seasonal story, just like the colors do,” Henderson says. “Floral patterns and bright colors signal spring and summer. So, for fall, try more substantial patterns like plaid or thick stripes, in warmer colors.” It’s also a great way to introduce patterns into your home if your current décor contains a lot of solids and neutrals. Just a blanket, pillow, or rug in these designs will signal “fall.”
Accent With Seasonal Colors
When you think of an autumn color scheme, the first thing that comes to mind is probably a spectrum of oranges and reds. You can never go wrong with adding a few accents in this color scheme. “Fill a vase with orange blooms or fill a bowl with oranges instead of mini-pumpkins,” Vidal says. “You can also showcase books with spines or arrange vases or ceramics in the hues more prominently for autumn.” The best part: You can keep these out well into fall and through the Thanksgiving holiday.