By Deanna Kane
A seasonal home makeover doesn't require a total interior overhaul. Just a few decor updates can make a big impact when transitioning your home between seasons. Create a warm retreat for the longer nights ahead, by incorporating warm neutrals, luxe fabrics, metallics and soft lighting. Below are a few low commitment tips to make each room of your house ready for the cooler weather.
1.) Front porch
Quick fix: Give your curb appeal an element of richness and paint your front door a dramatic navy or black. As a polished approach to a traditional fall wreath, take on a personalized DIY project, by tying an oversized initial or monogram to a boxwood wreath.
Investment option: As the days get shorter, keep your exterior well lit and make a statement by flanking the front door with oversized coach lamps.
2.) Entryway
Quick fix: Create a warm, inviting entryway with a neutral, wool floor runner. Style a console table vignette with metallic candlesticks in different heights, a statement bowl or tray to use as a stylish catch-all, and a natural element to breathe life into your home, such as fresh fall flowers from your local farmers market.
Investment option: Hang an oversized metallic mirror with clean lines in your entryway. Consider a Louis Philippe style mirror -- a classic shape that will never go out of style.
3.) Living Room
Quick fix: Whether you're hosting family and friends or are spending a quiet evening solo, your living room is likely to get more use than it did during the warmer months. Incorporate additional task lighting throughout the room, and replace the white light bulbs with light pink bulbs to create a softer glow. Update your throw pillows with a selection of textured knit and faux soft leather in natural tones.
If you have hardwood floors, the cooler weather is the perfect opportunity to add a plush shag rug to your living room. If you're not ready to start using your fireplace quite yet, you can still create a focal point with a grouping of electric candles, or stacking birchwood logs.
Investment option: Update a few living room pieces and incorporate a set of leather bucket chairs for an elegant, yet comfortable touch. These will also help create a defined sitting area.
4.) Kitchen
Quick fix: The fall holidays don't mean you're limited to kitschy, orange, pumpkin decor. Create a neutral tablescape with a white, green and brown color scheme. White pumpkins, dried hydrangeas, artichokes and branches are a classic combination.
Investment option: Update your kitchen cabinet hardware with brass handles and pulls for a current, polished look.
5.) Bedroom
Quick fix: Take advantage of the crisp air and keep your windows cracked. Add a few extra layers to your bedding, like a herringbone patterned or faux fur throw. Replace your linen sheets with a soft jersey set.
Investment option: Update your entire bedding set in tones of light gray or soft taupe to create a relaxing and cozy retreat. Complete the look with a selection of soft cable knit and faux fur pillows.
6.) Backyard
Quick fix: If you're already missing your warm, outdoor nights, set up a portable fire pit and keep a collection of inexpensive throw blankets to continue to enjoy the backyard before it gets too cold.
Investment option: Host a tailgate in your backyard by adding an outdoor TV (designed to withstand weather, insects, corrosion and to dissipate internal heat) to take advantage of the crisp weather, while cheering on your favorite team.
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