Decorative pumpkins, candles and pine cones sit in a tray next to a sign that reads "Fall Mood".

As the warm summer days begin to wane and the first hints of autumn appear, it’s time to usher in a new season and embrace the cozy ambiance of fall. Transitioning your summer decor to fall decor doesn’t mean a complete overhaul; instead, it’s about infusing your living spaces with the colors, textures, and elements that evoke the spirit of the season. Let’s explore some creative and easy ways to transform your home into a cozy haven that welcomes the fall months with open arms.

A view of fall foliage across a body of water.

Embrace Nature’s Palette

Colors of Fall

One of the most remarkable aspects of fall is its breathtaking color palette. The vibrant greens and blues of summer gracefully give way to rich earth tones and warm hues. To create a cozy atmosphere, start with colors. Summer is all about bright, light colors, like blues, greens, and yellows. Fall is all about warm, rich colors, like oranges, browns, and reds. So start by swapping out some of your summer-themed pillows, throws, and artwork for pieces in fall colors. Swap out those bright and pastel summer throw pillows and tablecloths for autumnal shades like deep burgundy, burnt orange, warm mustard, and rustic brown. Change your summer-themed doormat for one with warm fall colors. These colors will instantly add a touch of warmth and coziness to your living spaces, making them feel more inviting.

Cozy Textures

Layering for Comfort

As the temperature starts to dip, it’s time to introduce cozy textures into your decor. Swap out lightweight cotton or linen throws for cozy blankets or throws. Drape these comforting layers over your sofa or armchairs to create a welcoming and snug atmosphere. To refresh a room without spending a fortune, try some new curtains in an autumnal shade. Consider changing your curtains to heavier fabrics like velvet or tweed, which not only adds visual warmth but also helps keep your home insulated during colder days. Treat yourself to a new set of flannel or fleece bedding and a new comforter. Adding plush rugs in warm colors to your floors is another fantastic way to infuse your living space with cozy textures.

A sofa is covered with cream-colored blankets and rich jewel-toned throw pillows. A tray sits on top with candles, a book, and fairy lights.
String lights set up in a corner of a living room creates a cozy, quiet space to relax.

Warm Glow

Lighting the Way

The right lighting can completely transform the mood of a room. During the fall season, opt for warm and soft lighting options to create a serene ambiance. Consider using string lights or fairy lights to add a touch of magic to your indoor spaces. Twine them around stair railings, drape them over mantels, or hang them in a corner to create a cozy reading nook.

Candles are also an excellent way to add a warm glow to your home. Choose scented candles with fragrances like cinnamon, pumpkin spice, or vanilla to fill your rooms with the delightful aromas of fall. Place them on side tables, shelves, or a decorative tray for a charming display.

Autumnal Accents

Bring the Outdoors In

Fall decor is all about celebrating the beauty of nature. Incorporate elements from the outdoors into your home to create a natural and rustic vibe. For instance, you can fill mason jars with dried flowers like sunflowers, hydrangeas, or wheat stalks. Or display a vase of fall flowers on your coffee table. These dried arrangements can last throughout the season and add an enchanting touch to your decor. Hang a wreath on your front door with fall leaves or pumpkins.

Consider using natural materials like burlap, twine, or wood in your decor elements. A burlap table runner or placemats can add a touch of rustic charm to your dining area. Wooden crates or baskets can be used as storage solutions while also adding a dash of natural elegance to your space.

Crafty tip: For a rustic and charming centerpiece, gather some fallen leaves, acorns, and pine cones during your nature walks. Arrange them in a wooden bowl or a glass jar and place them on your coffee table or dining table. This simple DIY decor will bring the natural beauty of fall right into your home.

A person places a fall-themed floral arrangement with sunflowers on a table.
A front porch decorated with pumpkins and mums.

Harvest-inspired Decor

Pumpkins, Gourds and More

No fall decor would be complete without the quintessential symbols of the season: pumpkins and gourds. These autumn staples come in various sizes, shapes, and colors, making them perfect for decorating your home.

Place a collection of pumpkins on your front porch to welcome guests with a festive vibe. Use small pumpkins and gourds to create a charming centerpiece for your dining table or coffee table. You can also paint or carve pumpkins with unique designs for a personalized touch.

Setting the Scene

Seasonal Art and Decorative Accents

Switching up your wall art and decorative accents is an easy way to reflect the changing seasons in your home. Consider hanging autumn-themed paintings, prints, or wall hangings that feature fall landscapes, leaves, or cozy scenes. Swap out your photo frames with pictures of your past fall adventures, such as apple picking or enjoying a hayride.

Additionally, update your decorative accents with cozy and season-appropriate items. Replace seashells and beach-themed decorations with pinecones, wooden signs with fall quotes, and decorative pillows featuring autumn patterns.

A kitchen is filled with gourds, autumn leaves, and string lights.
A fall-themed dinner table is set with pumpkins, candles and fall leaves.

Dressing Up Your Dining Table

Fall Tablescapes

With the fall season comes an opportunity to host warm gatherings with friends and family. Dressing up your dining table with a captivating fall tablescape sets the mood for a delightful gathering.

Start with a neutral tablecloth or placemats as the base for your tablescape. Then, layer on decorative elements like autumn-colored napkins, seasonal dinnerware, and elegant chargers. Use a fall-themed runner. Add a centerpiece, such as a floral arrangement with fall flowers, or create a rustic display using candles, pumpkins, and fall foliage.

Transitioning your summer decor to fall decor is a delightful way to embrace the changing seasons and create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in your home. By incorporating nature’s colors, textures, and elements into your decor, you can easily transform your living spaces into a warm and welcoming sanctuary for the fall months.

Enjoying Crisp Fall Nights

Spending Time with Loved Ones

Just because the temperatures drop doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a nice evening outdoors. Imagine cozying up to a toasty fire pit wrapped in a comfy throw while you enjoy a warm cup of cider. We have a large selection of propane and wood-burning fire pits in different sizes and styles.

A father and son warm themselves by an outdoor firepit.

Other Useful Tips to Get Started

Remember, fall decor is not just about aesthetics; it’s also about embracing the spirit of the season and creating spaces that bring joy and comfort to you and your loved ones. It’s also about reflecting your personal style. 

Here are some tips to get you started: 

  • Use your creativity! There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to fall decor. So have fun with it and be creative. Use your imagination to create a fall-inspired look that reflects your personal style. Don’t be afraid to mix and match. You don’t have to stick to traditional fall colors or themes. You can mix and match different elements to create a unique look that’s all your own.
  • Feeling overwhelmed? Start small! You don’t have to change everything all at once. Start by making a few small changes, like swapping out your throw pillows or adding some pumpkins to your coffee table. You can always add more fall decor as the season progresses.
  • If you’re ready to change over your decor but just can’t seem to get into the spirit, try baking something! Ocean State Job Lot carries a large variety of Bob’s Red Mill mixes that take the guesswork out of baking. From pancakes to muffins to cakes, we know you’ll find something you like. Grab a few warming spices, like cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, or traditional pumpkin pie spice, and you’ll fill the house with the smells and tastes of fall. We guarantee you’ll be ready to decorate! 

The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process of transitioning your summer decor to fall decor. Fall is a beautiful season, and it’s a great time to get creative with your home decor. So, let your creativity flow, mix and match various elements, and enjoy the process of creating your personalized fall oasis. Happy decorating!

Cozy Decor Essentials