Seasonal Decorating

According to Peggy Van Allen, color specialist for Pratt & Lambert Paints, the new trends are easy to incorporate into existing design schemes.

“The fall season and its vibrant color palette contain some extraordinarily rich, yet versatile hues. The depth of color provides extensive options for adding room accents, changing themes and styles, and even completely redecorating,” says Van Allen.

The following are some tips from Van Allen to help you get started:

Embrace Color

Painting is one of the easiest and most impactful ways to give a room a facelift. Currently, autumn-inspired hues are the must-haves on the market. According to Van Allen, red is an ideal choice when it comes to fall colors. Whether it’s cherry, persimmon, or cranberry, there is an abundance of red accessories -- such as rugs and pillows -- to coordinate, making red a bold, yet safe selection. “Along with darker shades of burgundy and cinnamon, reds make a room feel both comforting and energizing, adding a feeling of warmth as the weather gets colder,” she adds.

Traditional neutral colors never go out of style, but there are a number of new additions to the category this season. Sand, wheat, mustard, stone, and clay, are just a few of the new colors that blend harmoniously with most existing decor schemes. They also make a room appear larger and more open.

Using a few different but coordinating colors can be a great way to add dimension to your room and highlight decorative trims, furnishings, doorways, and shelves. In a large room, different colors can divide space into visually separate areas. This is helpful in a room that serves multiple functions.

“Don’t be afraid to experiment with these fall-inspired colors,” says Van Allen. In fact, one way to explore color is with Pratt & Lambert’s new Never Compromise Color Sample Selector System, which allows you to buy two-ounce, pre-tinted paint samples to test on your walls before making a color commitment. Try out several fall hues to see which works best in your home before painting the entire room.

Accessorize

Painting isn’t the only way to give a stylish nod to autumn. Look for blankets, pillows, and rugs in darker colors and textured fabrics to complement your furniture. Choose fabric patterns with metallic or beaded detail, embroidery, or Mideastern influences. Besides providing an instant updated look, these easy additions will make your home seem warmer and more comfortable. Fill shelves, tables and bare corners with various-sized candles in delicious seasonal scents like cinnamon, vanilla, apple, and pumpkin pie. Or, use copper accents wherever possible for a rustic fall look.

Get Creative

Festive fall decorating doesn’t mean you have to be the neighbor with the Styrofoam ghost on your front lawn. Seasonal staples like pumpkins, gourds, and autumn leaves look great in and around the home, but try using them in new and appealing ways. For a modern centerpiece, simply line up mini pumpkins, gourds, or fruit on a long white platter, low basket, or tray. Then add berry clusters, leaves, or flowers for a colorful garnish.

Fill miniature glass vases with seeds, dried berries, or potpourri for stylish countertop or windowsill accents. Create elegantly simple fall wreaths by repeating one item like acorns, berries, or miniature pumpkins in a circle and add a satin bow.

Everyone loves the idea of jack-o-lanterns, but not everyone loves carving them. If pumpkin carving isn’t your thing, try this chic alternative: drill lines of different-sized holes down the sides of your pumpkin. After adding a candle, these “designer” pumpkin accents will provide elegant light for a room.

Any of these fall decorating tips are sure to add a feeling of stylish festivity to your home’s interior. “The most important decorating tip is to make your home as comfortable and pleasant as possible for you and those you love,” says Van Allen. “Get creative and find out what works best for you.”

Courtesy of ARA Content