What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of fall? Most likely it’s changing leaves, seasonal harvest, cool breezes and cozy fabrics.
With the brilliant colours autumn brings, it’s only natural this year’s fall decor is as bold as the season itself. This year’s design trends have bucked tradition in favour of exciting tones, shapes and textures that would have raised eyebrows just a few years ago — and this season is no different.
We spoke with Britney Ryberg, a designer with Leading Edge Interiors in Calgary, Alberta, to get her take on the upcoming fall trends for 2023.
Refined autumn
This year’s design theme highlights warm hues, eye-catching accents, and the reemergence of retro furniture and accessories. It also steers away from the ultra-seasonal decor we’re used to.
“Fall decorating tends to lean to a warm, natural texture,” Ryberg explains. “We consider seasonal decorating and styling to be recurring, meaning the overall theme doesn’t change drastically year over year, but small touches can be updated to make it feel refreshed.”
Rather than using classic fall accessories like pumpkins, wreaths and autumn leaves, the recommendation is a more subtle aesthetic you can incorporate such as natural textures and vintage accessories. Consider burlap or cotton table runners in the living room, or vintage centrepieces in your dining room. Don’t be afraid to visit the thrift store and see what you can find!
This year has been all about earth tones and the trend continues into fall. While summer’s palette combined earthy hues with coastal shades of blue, this season will blend them with forest green tones.
“Various shades of ochre, rust and green feel very ‘fall’ to us,” Ryberg says. “Earth tones are trending in general right now so these colours are also widely accessible in retailers.”
To keep your space looking open and airy, she recommends balancing the bold pops of colour with neutrals like brown, cream and beige. If you have a neutral couch, bold pillows can achieve this look. Alternatively, if you have a bold bedspread, consider more neutral accessories like curtains, pillow shams and bedside lamp shades.
Fall comforts in open spaces
This trend maintains an open, airy layout with elements of fall comfort. As Ryberg notes, “layering your space is the key to making it feel inviting and cozy — in other words, ready for winter hibernation.” Think rugs under tables, table runners under books, and books under trinkets.
Directing the eye towards repeating elements is also a good way to create a seasonal layout without making drastic changes. You can do this by adding textiles to upholstered pieces, ambient lighting sources, and curated accent items to tie them in seamlessly.
“Repeating elements will ensure the space is cohesive,” Rybers explains. “Keep that in mind as you target various rooms in your home. You may focus on the living and dining room to start, but don’t overlook bringing the same theme into your kitchen and powder room.”
Cozy textures
This season’s focus on comfort is also perfectly illustrated by the emphasis on heavier textures and luxurious fabrics.
Jane at Home notes velvet is currently one of the most popular fabrics as it adds warmth and a refined touch to your space. She also recommends using heavier linens if you want to maintain a cool palette.
As for how to incorporate these textures, Ryberg suggests switching up toss cushions and throw blankets on your sofa with heavy materials such as waffle or bouclé. Natural elements are also a great way to introduce similar textures. For instance, swapping out a few tropical plants for stems like cotton or pampas grass will further accentuate the coziness of your space while adding warm, natural fall tones.
Vintage accents meet contemporary design
The push towards sustainable décor has made retro accessories more popular than ever. Antiques are back in a big way and integrating them into your home creates eye-catching focal points.
“Vintage charm is a welcome trend as we see a shift towards antique-inspired décor at many retailers,” Ryberg says. “Mixing old-world pieces with contemporary design creates an unexpected appeal.”
Vintage accents like small art, candlesticks and books can also add interest to open shelves or your coffee table. Other fall accents you could opt for include warm metals, artisan vases, seagrass trays or baskets.
There’s no need to adapt each of this season’s design trends when creating a fall look for your home. Instead, figure out what makes the most sense for your current situation.
“Seasonal decorating can be daunting so we suggest working with what you already have and building on the theme in small ways,” Ryberg says. Her top recommendation? “Invest in items you love and integrate inexpensive trendy pieces so you can afford to mix things up more frequently.”
Always keep in mind that your home is a reflection of your personal style and you can switch up these ideas however you want, to suit your space and lifestyle.
— Realtor.ca