Fall Has Arrived!
The leaves are turning, the air is crisp and cool and the most exciting of all – it’s SWEATER WEATHER! For those of us here in Central Pennsylvania the oppressive heat has started to break, and we can enjoy the outdoors without melting. But what does Fall mean for your home? Let’s talk about 5 things you can do to turn your home into an autumnal oasis.
Start by embracing alllllllllll the cozy textures. Home goods in the Fall are by far my favorite of any season. Why? Aside from the soothing, rich color palette they come in such a wonderful array of TEXTURES. We’re talking nubby chenille, cozy faux fur and everything in between. Explore the use of throws, plush pillows and rugs in a variety of textures to create an inviting atmosphere that draws friends in and brings everyone closer together.
Next we discuss color. Mother-nature inspired browns, tans, oranges, yellows and dark greens create spaces that transition the indoors to the outdoors seamlessly. Pick one or two colors you want to focus on, that best compliment your home’s core color palette (ie. dark wood floors contrast nicely with muted orange tones that pop against their depth) and expand on them. Replacing pillows and/or pillow covers, blankets, stems and foliage in a range of oranges for example will give your home LIFE. Be sure to remove any items with strong colors that will contrast. That beautiful blue bowl on your dining table that looks like the ocean? Stash it for the season.
Don’t forget about your outdoor spaces! Your front porch and entryway leave endless opportunities for pops of color and fall festiveness (totally a word). Add a rug under your doormat in a seasonal color, put out pumpkins, hang a wreath and add lanterns and candles that speak to your color palette. Don’t forget about your seasonal flowers! Adding a planter or rows chrysanthemums (commonly referred to as mums) in a red, gold or bronzy hue will add the pop of color that will make your neighbors stop and stare.
Now for the fun part – accessories! Décor is absolutely the jewelry of the home that brings it all together and elevates your space. There are so many options out there that speak to your individuality and style. Love pumpkins? Go wild! Choose from velvet, wood and glass in a myriad of color options… In addition to textured organic vases, you can choose stems to complement the other elements in your home to make a cohesive design. Don’t forget about the knick-knacks! Use acorns, leaves, squirrels, candles and table linens to complete your vision.
Finally, don’t forget about essential home maintenance to ensure you have a safe fall-winter season here in Central Pennsylvania. Store away all summer tools and machinery, clean and cover/store your patio furniture and cushions and clean gutters all around your home. Check for gaps around windows, store screens and turn off all outside water valves and put away hoses. Clean and cover grills or smokers and cut dead or damaged trees and shrubs near your home so they don’t damage siding in the event of winter weather.
Now it’s time to enjoy! Pour that glass of warm cider, invite your friends over and turn on the fireplace. The cooler months give you a chance to reflect and slow down to enjoy the simple things in life. Stay present and enjoy the season! Cheers! xx