Fall is here, which means pumpkin spice season, crisp walks, and perhaps a visit to the pumpkin patch. But, it’s also the perfect time to stay home, get cozy, and unwind with a good book or your favorite binge-watch. If your bedroom still feels like summer, though, the vibe can be, well…a little cold.
That’s why it’s the perfect time to give your home a seasonal refresh, according to designer Joshua Praught of Studio Joshua. “For me, design is about creating a sensory refuge—spaces that restore you and honor the rhythm of the seasons,” he says. “A well-designed home isn’t just about how it looks, but how it feels to live in it.”
The good news? Updating your bedroom for fall and winter is easier than you think. Here’s how to create a warm, inviting space that feels just right for the colder months ahead.
Swap Out Your Bedding
While some linens are great for the summer, they might not be ideal for the fall and winter. So, changing out your bedding seasonally is a great way to give your bedroom a little refresh. “Think about swapping out your white and cool-toned textiles for warm rust tones, plums, and camels,” suggests Lauren Grant of Lauren Grant Design. “Swap out linen and cotton fibers for soft textures like velvet, chenille, and wool.”
Bring in Some Fresh Layers
New sheets, comforters, and duvets can be expensive, so a whole set of new bedding might not be in your budget. But don’t fret—you just need to think creatively and add a layer or two onto what you already have. Even a fresh throw can make your bed look and feel brand new.
Praught likes adding a mohair throw for the colder seasons, but there are many options depending on how you want to feel. “Begin with how you want to feel in this season,” he says. “Maybe it’s grounded, inspired, romantic, or restful. Every change should support that emotion. I always start by editing—put away what feels too light or busy from summer—and then add a few meaningful layers back in.”
Another great way to add layers? A new throw pillow (or two). Keep in mind, you don’t even need to replace your pillows. It’s usually less expensive to get new covers. If you prefer a fall color scheme, go with chocolate browns and rust hues. If you’re ready to dive into winter, consider navy and hunter green.
Consider New Curtains
Do you use blackout curtains to block the summer light? With less light in the winter, you may want to mix things up. Sheer white curtains can be fairly inexpensive and complement most design styles. They’ll give you privacy while still letting light in.
If you prefer blackout curtains to help with sleep, or to block that bright streetlight shining through your window, try adding a second rod and layering sheer curtains underneath. Close the heavier ones before bed, then open them in the morning and leave the sheers drawn during the day to maintain the perfect balance of light and privacy. On the other hand, if you used lighter curtains during the summer, Praught advises installing something bold and textured, like velvet, for the chillier months instead.
Place a Storage Bench at the End of Your Bed
Buying new bedroom furniture can be pricey, but an accent like storage benches gives a designer’s touch while being relatively affordable, says Darrell Gardner, director of product development at CORT. “Consider an upholstered bench with hidden storage at the foot of the bed,” he suggests. “It’s functional, looks intentional, and saves you from the avalanche of sweaters in the closet.” Alternatively, a vintage trunk from a thrift store or estate sale can add a chic touch to your bedroom at a great price while offering a similar storage option for winter blankets.
Add a New Rug
There’s nothing that feels quite as nice underfoot as a new rug. Praught suggests a plush rug, but keep in mind that any style will do. Not sure where to start? Choose something that will complement your linens. (Don’t forget to add an extra-soft rug pad.)
Change Up Your Candles
A scent can instantly set the mood, especially in the fall and winter. While many people gravitate toward gourmand fragrances like pumpkin spice or ginger, bedroom candles don’t need to be quite so on the nose—literally. “Trade scents of floral and lavender with notes of earthy varieties of pine or notes of scents like cinnamon and vanilla,” Grant suggests.
Read more at Real Simple
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