Popular Fall Decorating Trends According to Experts
“Fall is a time for coziness, for slowing down, and for reconnecting with friends and family,” says Lauren Meichtry, founder of the home accessories brand Elsie Home. We’ve got a list of 7 popular fall design trends to make your home look ready for fall.
Fall Porchscapes
Intricate fall front porches have been rising in popularity over recent years which often include pumpkins (duh!), stalks of corn, colorful mums, and other seasonal items. On top of the fabulous curb appeal, front porches are increasingly more popular spot to entertain with the cooler fall weather making it more comfortable to gather outdoors. Top designer, Margarita Bravo, says that porchscapes are going to be the hottest trend of the season! “If you have a large porch, you can easily set up a few tables and chairs and invite your friends over for an evening of food and conversation,” she says. “Porchscapes are also a great way to enjoy the outdoors without having to leave the comfort of your own home.”
Earthy, Nature-Inspired Colors
Traditional fall colors, of course, are orange, red, yellow, and brown. These days, most top designers are turning to other nature-inspired tones and colors to create more extensive and refined combinations. “I always gravitate toward warm, richer tones come the fall season, such as deep greens, blues, and browns,” says Kathy Kuo, CEO and founder of Kathy Kuo Home. “I love designing with these colors because of the layer of sophistication and character they add to a space without overpowering it.”
If you prefer to stick with the traditional fall color pallete of pumpkins and colorful leaves, try experimenting by adding one or a couple unexpected shades to switch things up. Try a navy blue pillow or forrest green table runner and see how it sets off the rest of the orange and yellow decor. You can even try some metal decorative accents to add some shine to your design!
Entertainment-Ready Spaces
Seasonal celebrations were understandably put on hold during the pandemic, but now gatherings are back in full swing and fall is the perfect time to our friends and fam! Interior designer Amanda Evans says that post-pandemic, most of her clients are focused on preparing their homes for a “season of entertaining”. All of the common areas (kitchen, dining room, and living room) are the center of fall decorating. Amanda recommends integrating features that cater all of the five senses, like including candles or essential oil diffusers. “The power of scent can bring coziness into a space without much décor at all,” Meichtry says.
Textural Fabrics
How great is it to snuggle up under a comfy, cozy blanket when the weather turns colder? It’s probably my favorite thing about this time of year, so comforting fabrics are an absolute must, and texture is a key trend for 2022. “Layering chunky knitted blankets and decorative pillows with velvets and other rich, textured fabrics will quickly transform your space from a light and airy summer feel to a warm and welcoming fall vibe,” says New York interior designer Courtney Sempliner. If you want to refresh your living room or bedroom, try to mix in a few different fabrics like cashmere, faux fur, and plush. It will give your space a cozy, layered look.
Cozy Sanctuaries
I think it’s safe to say the last few years have taught us that your some should be your sanctuary. Sanctuaries are at the forefront of fall decorating this year, according to Amanda Evans. Take advantage of the changing season to make yourself a special nook somewhere in your home. Maybe make a comfy window seat with soft pillows and a festive throw, or just put a big comfy chair in a corner with a side table and lamp to create the perfect reading nook.
Dark & Moody Kitchens
White kitchens have definitely had their time in the spotlight recently, but fall means darker and moodier! “People have become more experimental and bold in their design choices in the last year or two and it’s exciting to see what that has parlayed into in their interiors,” says Killy Scheer, owner of the Austin-based design firm Scheer & Co.. “Fall truly is a great time to usher in warm earth tones and deep jewel tones, reflecting the colors found in apple orchards, pumpkin patches, and all the warm cozy elements associated with the season.”
Scheer says that the kitchen is the best place to start if you’re looking for an excuse to do a bold renovation. “The kitchen is a fantastic place to integrate moody details,” she explains. “I always recommend allowing for the opportunity to install more exciting stones and backsplashes in a variety of hues and with unique veining patterns. Additionally, you can bring in darker woods with depth, from old growth oaks to varying cuts to contemporary takes on fluted and scalloped details.”
Bold Patterns to Add Some Personality
With more of us working from home on a permanent timeline, everyone is looking for ways to brighten up the areas that are used most. The minimalist-home is becoming a thing of the past and “People are using bold colors and fun patterns as a way to add life and positivity to their space and create an environment that exudes personality,” says Gil Walsh of GW Interiors. Bold accent walls (painted or wall-paper!) and colorful area rugs are super easy ways of experimenting without a heavy commitment. You can also start in smaller rooms such as the powder room, entryway, or hallways to get started with using eccentric patterns and bright colors.