You can transform your home into a warm, functional, beautiful space with just a few basic changes, upgrades, and décor elements. Fall, being a period of transition, presents the perfect opportunity to do this. Here are some ways to start off.
Cozy Bedroom Retreat
1. Bedroom Ambience
The bedroom should come first because you need a good night’s sleep to make the most of your days. In autumn, nights become darker and colder; therefore, ditch the lightweight summer sheets and go for heavier materials like flannel or brushed cotton, a wool or bamboo duvet, and a king mattress.
To create an atmosphere that is welcoming and cozy, play around with colors and textures. If you’re doing a fall overhaul, some of the best colors for a bedroom are shades like burnt orange, dark green burgundy, or mustard yellow would make great throw pillows, blankets, curtains. You could even create a striking accent wall by painting it one of these colors. Use soft candlelight with fall scents, such as pumpkin spice, cinnamon, and nutmeg, to further enhance the feeling of coziness in your room.
Consider different types of adjustable beds that can make your bedroom more comfortable, too. Depending on your needs and preferences, there are electric, manual, and hydraulic beds that you can adjust to support your head, back, legs, and feet. This type of bed is a must-have if you enjoy reading or watching TV before sleeping. Do not forget to add adjustable mattresses that flex and contour along with the base of your bed.
Cozy Living Spaces
2. Invest in Comfy Rugs
If you have cold hardwood or tile floors, right now is the perfect time to introduce those warm area rugs into your space. They act as a barrier against cold floors while adding texture and comfort to your room.
Go for rugs that complement autumn colors or patterns that resonate with the general theme of your house during this season. A light gray rug with subtle hints of rust or mustard can effortlessly add warmth and depth to a room. Alternatively, you can also opt for chunky knit rugs or faux fur for a more luxurious and cozier feel.
To enhance visual interest, consider layering multiple rugs of different sizes and textures. For instance, place a large rectangular carpet as the foundation and top it off with a smaller round or oval rug.
3. Incorporate Natural Elements
Since fall is a time for a fruitful harvest, why not bring those vibes into your living spaces? Materials such as wood, wicker, or rattan have an organic and earthy feel that can add warmth and coziness to your home. Incorporate them in your furniture, such as a wooden coffee table or wicker armchair.
Add some indoor plants to brighten your rooms and give them some life. Low-maintenance indoor plants that can still thrive even when exposed to little light include the peace lily, ZZ plant, spider plant, and pothos. They will help purify your air (especially since cooler seasons call for more time spent indoors), humidify your space, and boost oxygen levels at night.
4. Add Soft Lighting
With the days becoming shorter and darker, lighting becomes imperative in creating a snug environment. Rather than using hard overhead lighting, choose warm and soft lights. In any given room, you cannot go wrong with string lights or fairy lights, as they add a touch of warmth to your place. You can install them on walls, around windows and mirrors, or drape them over shelves.
Candles are another great alternative. Their soft, flickering light creates a calming and intimate atmosphere. Choose scented candles with warm notes, such as cinnamon, vanilla, or pumpkin spice.
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5. Change the Seating Arrangements
Instead of a traditional linear setup, arrange seating either in a circular or U shape. This fosters conversation and creates an intimate and cozy atmosphere. Don’t shy away from using varied forms of seating, like putting together a comfortable couch and mismatched armchairs. You can also throw in some floor pillows or bean bags for a laid-back feel. Play around with colors to keep the space from looking too monotone.
Functional Kitchen and Dining Space
6. Optimize Your Pantry
During this season of festivities and gatherings, you’ll spend more time in the kitchen, preparing meals and hosting guests. It’s essential to have a well-stocked pantry for any impromptu meal plans or unexpected visitors.
Start by clearing out what’s expired or never used. Then, stock up on staples like canned goods, pasta, rice, and spices. Use clear containers or jars with labels for easier identification and baskets to corral smaller items.
7. Dress Up Your Dining Table
A stylishly laid dining table is an immediate upgrade to any mealtime moment. Use a fine-quality tablecloth or runner that coordinates with dishes and kitchen decorations for a cohesive look. Add a centerpiece, such as seasonal flowers, in a vase or a decorative bowl full of pinecones or ornaments. You can also experiment with objects from nature, such as branches, leaves, or fruits, as accents.
8. Upgrade Your Appliances
If you’ve been eyeing new kitchen appliances, autumn presents the perfect opportunity to upgrade. Invest in modern and energy-efficient appliances with advanced features and designs to streamline cooking and add a touch of style to your kitchen.
Outdoor Preparations
9. Refresh Your Patio
Get a professional landscaper to clean and spruce up your outdoor living space. Refresh your outdoor furniture, add some plants, install a fire pit, and invest in outdoor lighting fixtures for an inviting ambiance.
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10. Spruce up Your Front Porch
The first impression of your home begins at the front porch, so make it uniquely yours with seasonal decor and personal touches. Consider adding a new doormat, potted plants, wreath, or other decorations to welcome the season.
Conclusion
The secret to upgrading your home for fall is seeking inspiration from nature. Play around with earthy, muted, and warm tones to create a cozy and inviting ambiance. Remember to incorporate your own personal style and preferences to make your home truly feel like your own. Happy decorating!
Linda Barbara has worked in various capacities including as an interior designer, a teacher and the proud owner of a home décor blog, upgradehometutors.com.