From the changing of leaves and harvesting of crops to the delightful feel of crisp mornings, Fall is a distinct season of transition, evoking feelings of warmth and comfort, as well as imagery of “wood, leaves, and earth,” says Bryan Moore, a Copenhagen sales and design associate. With its rich colors and inviting textures, the arrival of autumn is the perfect time to “energize your space with a new aesthetic by layering, art, rugs, and other accessories on top of core pieces,” observes Moore. “Bringing these characteristics into a space, like a family or dining room, creates a safe and comforting environment and helps usher in positivity and a fresh perspective,” he adds.
Below, we worked with Moore to curate five design themes that are perfect for incorporating Fall’s inviting elements into your space, with product and design recommendations for each aesthetic.
Rooted in comfort and hominess, rustic warmth is a classic element of fall home decor that will give your space a timeless feel as the weather changes outside. Natural woods and leathers, distinct textures, and an array of warm colors add a touch of organic charm.
“Many people I’ve worked with live in [Texas] hill country and want the warmth of rustic design, but with a more contemporary aesthetic,” starts Moore. “Combining warmer materials with classic clean lines and polished metals can create that modern rustic look.”
For a versatile aesthetic, opt for a wood or leather core piece; wooden dining sets and bedroom sets with visible grains or natural finishes create an artisan feel, while the rich texture of a leather sectional or sofa adds visual and practical warmth. Flesh out your other main furnishings in the material opposite from your anchor piece or use pieces with both wood and leather. For example, a textured fabric armchair in a vibrant color beautifully complements a neutral leather sofa. Accent with smaller items in metal, stone, or brick, and consider incorporating eclectic or antique pieces to add character.
Browns, reds, and beiges establish an inviting foundational palette; add pops of burgundy, mustard, and deep orange to truly feel that fall influence.
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Envelop yourself in feelings of belonging and coziness whenever you enter a room with autumnal ambers. This color-focused aesthetic celebrates the richer, vibrant hues of fall, with a base palette of amber, gold, and bronze. Use these tones for your anchor pieces, like a sectional, and accent with earthy tones like forest green, navy blue, and deep burgundy.
Incorporate furnishings with fine upholsteries like leather and velvet for a luxurious, inviting feel, and accent with throw pillows, blankets, and rugs in textured fabrics like chenille, wool, and boucle.
Amber’s color spectrum is larger than you think – furniture with brass or gold accents, lamps that emit a warm ambient glow, orange-tinted glass, and pinecones or pumpkin decor all contribute to autumnal warmth.
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“A cozy organic aesthetic is perfect for those ready to curl up in a warm, quiet space,” Moore starts. Many “will enjoy its focus on pattern and movement, with both textured fabrics and warm-toned leathers.” This design theme celebrates the beauty of natural materials and their ability to inspire a serene atmosphere. Focus on choosing curved or plush, oversized furnishings to enhance your coziness.
Bring the outdoors in with plants and other greenery, from faux potted plants to dried flowers. Use these to accent your core wood, leather, and stone furnishings. And don’t be afraid to layer fabrics and patterns – mixing wool and linen fibers with thicker textures like corduroy and flannel add both physical warmth and visual depth.
Start with a neutral color palette of cream, grey, and brown to establish a grounded feel, then add pops of terracotta, mustard, and green; these deep, earthy tones add excitement without disrupting the cozy vibe. Consider using soft, indirect lighting to evoke the soothing embers of a fireplace.
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For those of us who bring family and friends together for fall gatherings, a welcoming and functional space can entertain guests seamlessly. Multifunctional furnishings and easy-care materials create an adaptable space that’s comfortable for everyone. “A dining room is the perfect space for this aesthetic,” Moore says. “Besides the main pieces, changing out an area rug or any artwork can instantly open up a room for entertaining.”
Consider choosing core pieces that add both style and function; sleeper sofas, extendable dining tables, and items with integrated storage are “perfect solutions for fall get-togethers,” says Moore. These designs help create an organized space, with enough room for you and your guests to dine and recline.
Pay attention to your lighting needs – a combination of overhead lighting, table lamps, and floor lamps is best for illuminating every corner of a room, so no one feels left out. With this design theme, your color palette and accessory choices are more flexible; go bold with sculptural statement pieces and bright reds and purples or keep it classic with contemporary artworks and neutral beiges and browns.
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“Families with young children or individuals who cherish variety are among those who appreciate the versatility of this aesthetic,” Moore states. “It encourages you to rearrange your space and bring in items that express everyone’s personalities; whether that’s unique pieces of art or durable designs that are kid friendly.”
To echo the eclectic nature and changing beauty of the fall season, consider your chosen space as a celebration of individuality, both of your unique needs and preferred styles. Your main furnishings should be primarily functional – but with a distinctive twist, like a modular sofa, asymmetrical bookcase, or adjustable craft table. Next, accessorize with statement pieces that have value to you, whether it’s a vintage rug, handmade artwork, or a fun, quirky sculpture.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match textures and patterns, as well as get bold with your color scheme – adding personal touches such as family photos, souvenirs, and knickknacks will help tie everything together.
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“One of the things I love most about interior design, and what inspires me, are the endless possibilities,” says Moore. “Whenever I work with someone who has trouble finalizing their furniture selections, I provide them with several different designs and layouts to show how the looks can change with pillows, art, rugs, and other accessories. If the core pieces are chosen correctly, you can layer on top of them and energize the space with a new aesthetic, like during the changing of the seasons. You deserve to walk into a room and be excited to be there, and seasonal interior design changes help usher in positivity and a fresh perspective!”
With any of these five design themes, you can capture the visual beauty and emotional resonance of fall for your interior. Our spaces are “where memories are made, and life happens,” Moore says. And cultivating a seasonal aesthetic can “inspire us to create more special moments.”