“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. To help refresh your home for the season ahead, we talked to a few designers about the fall decorating trends they’re most excited about this year.
1. Fall Porchscapes
Designer Margarita Bravo predicts porchscapes are going to be the hottest trend of the season. Elaborate fall front porches have been on the rise over the last few years, often decorated with pumpkins, corn stalks, mums, and other colorful seasonal props. But beyond the obvious curb appeal, Bravo says the front porch is an increasingly popular place to entertain, especially in cool fall temperatures when friends and neighbors typically gather outdoors. “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.”
2. Earthy, Nature-Inspired Colors
Orange, red, and yellow are the conventional colors of fall, but designers are increasingly turning to other nature-inspired hues to create refined fall color 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.” Although these tones might not be traditional for fall, they feel appropriate for the season when used in deeper shades with warm undertones. If you prefer to decorate with the classic colors of pumpkins and fall leaves, experiment by mixing one or two unexpected shades into your palette to mix things up. Layer in a few pillows in a rich navy blue or line your dining room table with a forest green runner to set off the rest of your orange and yellow decor. You can also incorporate a bit of shine through metal decorative accents. “They are a great way to add contrast in a design while also providing a pop of color in a unique way,” Kuo says.
3. Entertaining-Ready Spaces
After seasonal celebrations were put on pause during the pandemic, gatherings are in full swing again—and fall is the perfect time to host friends or family. Vancouver-based interior designer Amanda Evans notes that post-pandemic, many of her clients are focused on preparing their homes for a season of entertaining. Common spaces such as the kitchen, dining room, and living areas will be the focus of fall decorating this year. As you ready your home for hosting, she recommends incorporating elements that cater to all five senses, including candles or essential oil diffusers. “The power of scent can bring coziness into a space without much decor at all,” Meichtry says.
4. Textural Fabrics
As the weather turns colder, warm, comforting fabrics are a 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 aura,” says New York interior designer Courtney Sempliner. As you refresh your sofa or bedding, mix in a variety of fabrics in different textures, such as nubby bouclé, plush faux fur, and soft cashmere, for a cozy, layered look.
5. Cozy Sanctuaries
The past few years have reinforced the notion that your home should be a sanctuary, and this idea will be at the forefront of fall decorating this year, Evans says. Take the change of seasons as an opportunity to carve out a special nook somewhere in your home, she suggests. Outfit a window seat with cozy pillows and a plaid throw, or pull a comfy armchair into a corner to form a reading nook.
6. Dark, Moody Kitchens
White kitchens have had their moment, but this fall, it’s all about dark, moody colors, says Killy Scheer, owner of the Austin-based design firm Scheer & Co. “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,” she says. “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.”If you’ve been looking for a reason to do a bold home reno, Scheer says the kitchen is the best place to start. “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.”
7. Bold Patterns That Add Personality
With more people working from home permanently, folks are looking for a way to brighten up the most-used spaces in their homes this fall. Gil Walsh of GW Interiors says the minimalist home is becoming a thing of the past. “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,” she says. “Colorful area rugs and boldly painted accent walls are good ways to experiment with bold colors and patterns without committing heavily to them. You can also stick to smaller rooms, such as powder baths, mudrooms, or even hallways, when you are just starting out with bright colors and patterns.”
