It might still be summer, but with just weeks to go until the official arrival of autumn, it’s never too early to start planning your new season home makeover. The key objective as we head into the latter half of the year? Creating a cosy and inviting feel that you’ll love to spend your time in as the nights draw in, with luxury and sophistication guaranteed.
From adding some warm blankets and throws to changing up your colour schemes, there are lots of easy ways to make the switch from bright and airy to all-round snuggly, and all without compromising on glamour. Best of all, the majority of them are quick and easy to implement – which means you won’t need to spend days stripping the paintwork and starting from scratch. Let’s face it – few people have time to do that every three months of the year, and a few elegant touches is all it takes to transform your living space for the new season ahead.
Add warmth with seasonal colours
One of the easiest ways to up the cosiness factor is to add a dash of autumn colour – and if you’re up for the challenge, then a single statement wall or panel can make all the difference. Rich, terracotta tones, burnt oranges or dark, verdant greens can all add the desired effect, and the chimney breast makes for the perfect element of your room to highlight. But if you’d rather not have to touch a paintbrush at all, then add a few accessories instead. Throws, cushions and rugs are all a quick way to make the switch, offering maximum impact in minimal time.
Learn to love layering
On the subject of throws and blankets, layering some autumnal tones and different textures is a great way to inject some instant cosiness into any living space. Combine chunky knits with fine knits, linen fabric with faux fur or sheepskin and you’ll effortlessly create the desired feel. And, you’ll always have something on hand for those cooler evenings, when you’re huddled up in front of the fire with a good glass of red wine.
Layer them up on chairs, stools and sofa arms to add depth and dimension, and ensure that your house guests always have access to something warm and stylish to cover up with, too.
Get arty
Switching out your wall art is another way to change up the look and feel of your home in minutes, and while bright prints and leafy designs might have served you well during the summer months, darker, moodier pieces come into their own at this time of year. If you can’t quite let go of your penchant for foliage, then choose leafy designs in autumnal colours – oranges, browns and rusts, just as you’d see on the ground outside.
If nature prints aren’t your vibe, then seek out some atmospheric prints that will complement your colour scheme and match with your new-season accessories. Art is very much a matter of personal taste, so shop around for something you’d love to see taking pride of place on your wall.
Light up your living space
When it comes to creating that cosy feel, nothing is as important as lighting. Backlighting and dimmer switches come into their own at this time of year, and a carefully positioned floor lamp can be all that’s needed to provide a soft glow without going overboard.
If you’re partial to twinkling lights, then invest in some luxury fairy lights and arrange them strategically to highlight specific areas. Fireplaces and hearths, available to buy from the likes of Fireplace Choice, work well, and can be made features of the room, drawing the eye in an instant and making you feel warm and fuzzy inside from the moment you open the door.
Add an autumn garland
Another one for foliage fans, an autumnal garland is the perfect way to bring a little nature into your home even during the darker months. If you’re feeling creative, then why not make your own? Collect some leaves and berries on your next outdoor walk and have fun designing it with children or friends. Long garlands can take pride of place on your fireplace, while wreath-styles look great hung on front and back doors.
