3 min readThere's just something about the dramatic shift from summer to fall that creates a universal urge to redecorate. It's almost instinctual, like nesting.
Perhaps it's because we subconsciously know that cold weather is nigh, and we'll be spending more time indoors soon. Or maybe it's simply because the changing leaves and their color palette have a way of inspiring.
Whatever the motivation is behind your drive to make your home feel cozier for fall, it doesn't mean you need to spend money on more faux pumpkins and leaf garlands. We talked to three designers to glean some ideas on how to achieve the same result without buying anything new.
Bring in Fall Cuttings
According to designer Diane Luna, one of the best ways to transition your home from summer to fall is with fall cuttings from your yard.
"I was raised in the countryside by a mother who decorated with literally everything she could find in our yard," she says. "Her found-and-gathered style felt as if we’d adorned our home with the fall season itself. Branches beginning to turn amber were beautiful on our mantel, and simple sprigs turned lovely in beautiful vases."
The best part is that this tip works in nearly any room in your home, but especially in guest-facing spaces like your living room, kitchen, and powder bathroom.
Set Up a Reading Area Near a Window
We all have that extra accent chair in our home that rarely gets used. But sometimes all it needs is a cozy throw pillow and a little rearranging to make it an ideal spot for reading. Designer Thecla Glueck loves positioning a chair right next to a window with a great view of the changing leaves in the fall. Bonus points if you add a small table to set your reading material and coffee mug.
“The most budget-friendly fall updates are often the simplest," she says. "Before buying anything new, shop your home by rearranging accessories."
Use Your Fireplace
If you have a functioning fireplace, designer Megan Cherin of Cherin Studio says there's no time like right now to use it.
"Feeling cozy for fall can be as easy as getting that fireplace going," she says. "Something about the warm dancing light of the fire makes us just want to settle in and slow down."
But even if your fireplace isn't in working order, you can still achieve a similar effect by lighting candles inside the hearth.
Use Seasonal Treats as Decor
Now that it's finally not too hot to turn the oven on, fall is the perfect time of year to revive your love of baking. And the best part is that a glass dome full of cookies or muffins sitting on the counter doubles as decor, as does a rustic wooden bowl of pears and apples.
"I always set food out on an early weekend morning when the family is about to stir, and I can’t help but be stylish with the arrangement," Luna says. "Food is a great way to decorate."
Pull Out Your Thickest Throw Blankets
If you tucked away all your throw blankets for the summer, now is the time to dig them out and layer them strategically into your decor.
"Draped delicately on the sofa, nothing says fall is here like a warm, caramel-hued wool throw blanket available at the ready," Cherin says.
Give Your Space a Cozy Glow
The leaves aren't the only thing that changes in the fall. If you pay attention to how natural light hits in your home, you may notice it looks more golden due to the sun's lower position in the sky. You can take advantage of this cozy glow by temporarily removing some of your heavier drapes or simply opening your curtains wider.
When it comes to making your home's artificial lighting feel more cozy and inviting, Glueck says the key is to avoid over-lighting your space. If your overhead lights are on a dimmer, use the lowest setting and rely more on table lamps and candle glow instead.
"Softer, lower light instantly makes a room feel warmer, cozier, and more intimate," she says.
