First Time Buyer August/September 2024

INTERIORS

AUTUMNAL VIBES? SIX TIPS FOR SEASONAL STYLING Autumn will soon be here. Mornings will become crisper, logs sit neatly stacked by the fire and the pumpkin spice latte turns 21! But how do we translate this change in the seasons into our home interiors? Steve Hird, Director and Co-Founder of showhome interior design specialist Edward Thomas Interiors, shares six simple styling tips to swap spring/summer chic for autumn/winter comforts…

about adding a log burner or indoor fire pit? Textured wallhangings or macrame might instantly add that autumnal, hygge vibe and don’t neglect underfoot either, a sumptuous fluffy or deep pile rug ensures cosy toes! 3. SWITCH SCENTS Home fragrances can have a strong impact, so in the cooler months pick candles, room sprays and reed diffusers with a spiced scent such as cinnamon, wild pine, vanilla, cedarwood or musk to generate feelings of warmth and security. 4. NATURAL CONNECTIONS For many people, the change in seasons also brings a renewed connection with nature and the outdoors. Rambling at the weekend, country hikes with the dog, fell walking, camping, and that’s before the main ski season of course! All these activities can provide excellent inspiration for decor. You could keep it subtle and add new artwork or accessories to build your theme, or be bolder and opt for a patterned wallpaper or hand-painted mural. Outdoor pursuits can be a playful way of adding personality to spaces like children’s bedrooms, hallways, landings or the downstairs cloakroom. Another, perhaps more budget- friendly way to bring the outside in, is through seasonal greenery. Add foliage to decorative vases or flower stands for a completely new look. Think dried flowers, ferns, moss, eucalyptus, even some winter berries or pine cones. Swap any indoor plant pots for those with more autumnal shades or textures such as terracotta or rattan. 5. REORGANISE ROOMS One of my favourite ways to refresh a room is simple reorganisation. Try re-positioning your furniture, rearranging your wall art, or swapping any floor or side lamps around

olive green will all provide a timeless autumnal feel, but if you want to keep your decor light and bright, opt for blush pink, mustard or cream tones. For a more wintry illusion, a strong mix of blues, greys, silver and black works well. Don’t forget about lighting here too – switch out bright white lights for warmer yellow-ish hues. 2. LAYER UP One of last year’s biggest trends that looks set to stay is “comfortcore”, where comfort precedes style. Layering is a superb way to achieve this trend. Let’s face it, we do it with our wardrobe by adding jumpers and coats, so why not our homes too?! To create somewhere cosy to hibernate as the temperature drops, your styling should seek to create richness and warmth. Throws and blankets are a given, but you could also introduce deeper fabrics such as velvet, tweed and wool by reupholstering. Or what

The transition between summer and autumn is a great opportunity to refresh your interior design, and my advice is not to overthink. Restyle organically and as you feel inspired, not because you feel you should. Perhaps repurpose items you already own in new ways or reorganise rooms to give them a new function. To enjoy the best of summer and autumn, read on for my six top styling tips. 1. COLOUR CO-ORDINATION One of the most straightforward changes is to swap any accent colours. This doesn’t involve a complete redecoration, so is easy to manage, but can have a big impact. Consider switching cushion covers, bedding, lampshades, throws, blankets, decorative vases, even picture frames to create a cosy and welcoming aesthetic. Warming shades such as burnt orange, deep red, ochre, chocolate, caramel and

42 First Time Buyer August/September 2024

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