Autumn is in the air and the seasonal changes are starting to occur. People begin stocking up on heartier foods, sundresses and sandals are exchanged for sweaters and boots, and the light and bright palette of spring is toned down to earthier shades yet warmed up with gold-tinged tones. It’s always fun to bring these seasonal switches into your home decor as well, and while color may seem like the natural way to bring Autumn in, texture is also a great way to help your home change with the seasons..
When envisioning a crisp Autumn day, I always think of enjoying the colors from the leaves while being wrapped in something warm and soft. Adding throw blankets to arm chairs, couches, and beds will instantly add some Autumn flair to your home. Instead of concentrating solely on color, focus on the fabric. Because Autumn weather is cool, not freezing, the feel of the fabric is more important than the weight. Chenille, a very soft, woven yarn, is a rich fabric in which you will immediately want to be wrapped. Flannel is also a great fabric for fall blankets–it’s extremely soft, easy to clean, and is available in more patterns than most woven-yarn throws.
Another great way to infuse the spirit of the season into your home without painting your walls Pumpkin Spice is to concentrate on flooring. While there is no doubt that a hardwood floor can look beautiful, think about the relationship between warmth and texture. Walking around on a bare floor can make the whole house feel colder. Adding a plush wool rug to your space instantly warms up your room. Also, consider other, natural materials. Jute is a soft yarn available in warm shades and woven thickly to add a “cushiony” feel to your floor.
Rich and soft textures also allow you to more liberties with your color palette. If something “feels” like fall, it can be purchased in whichever colors match your already decorated room. While pinks or blues aren’t often associated with fall, the sumptuous textures from new fabrics of matching blankets and flooring will create a fall feel that can’t be beat.