October 19, 2023

As an interior designer, I am a firm believer in less is more when it comes to ‘seasonal decorating.’ However, I do like to acknowledge that change is happening, especially when we transition from summer to fall, which feels like the most dramatic shift.

There are a few additions that I make around this time of year to help my home feel cozier and ease into the winter months. I personally love the classic fall colours, so it’s a great excuse to bring rich burgundies and deep emerald greens into the home. Here are some fall interior design tips to subtly elevate your space:

Tip 1: Introduce Soft Furnishings Into Your Home

Cozy Home 101: what’s more inviting than soft furnishings? Not only do they make the place feel cozy, but they also provide actual warmth (win-win). Add extra cushions and throws to help make the sofa feel even more welcoming. If you want something more neutral, look no further than these Alpaca throws from Old Faithful Shop in Vancouver.

As soon as it gets a little colder outside, I really appreciate a rug underfoot. I have just swapped out my living room rug for this vintage-inspired one Olive & Charcoal from Loloi, which incorporates lots of my favourite fall colours. But don’t forget to add a rug pad - they add comfort, stop your rug from moving, and actually help your rug last longer. Here’s the rug pad I’m using, and I couldn’t recommend it enough.

Tip 2: Switch Out Those Summer Blossoms For Fall Foliage

This is a really quick, relatively inexpensive way to lean into the change in season. I usually opt for dried flowers like this arrangement from a local shop in Vancouver called The Wild Bunch, which will last you right through the entire season. I also love the simplicity and elegance of oversized branches. When the proportions are just right, they can make a statement and become a focal point. Check out this stunning assortment by designer Jeremiah Brent—‘foraged’ right from his garden.

Minimalist style, olive branches, vancouver interior decorating — Source: Jeremiah Brent Design

Tip 3: Light Candles for Ambiance

The finishing touch is, without a doubt, the ambient glow of a candle – it's the ultimate fall feeling. I want to add some height to my sideboard setup this year, and candlesticks are a great way to do that. These Iron Candle Holders from Rug & Weave are available in three different heights, so you can split them up, display them as a collection, or mix in with ornaments or plants.

These Hammered Metal Candlesticks from East City Candles have simply been paired with their Black Beeswax Tapers – and quite frankly, don’t need anything more than that.

Tip 4: Build Out A Morning Routine

With the season changing and the days getting shorter, I find it more important than ever to continue to be intentional about my morning routine. The darker mornings make it much harder for me to jump out of bed, but committing to a morning workout routine or meditation really helps set me up for the day.

For me, this means trying to avoid the snooze button in the morning and minimizing my screen time. It helps eliminate any distractions and unnecessary stimulation. Instead, I opt for a cup of coffee before doing some tapping meditation to stay grounded and calm. I’ve found that it makes me happier and sets me up for the day! If I have time, I definitely try to fit in a workout either at home or in a class to stay accountable.

This sums up the four ways that help me embrace the change in seasons and welcome fall with open arms. I understand that bidding farewell to summer can be bittersweet, but hopefully, these tips will make the seasonal transition easier for you.

I personally love preparing for fall now, and I hope you love it too. Which cozy home design idea do you love the most? – comment below.

Ariane