FALLING FOR AUTUMN
Hot decorating inspiration
Aslight drop in temperature, not immediate but still noticeable, and shorter days can mean only one thing – autumn is coming. Apart from signalling a switch up in the wardrobe department, these changes also prompt a start in prepping your home for the new season. “Autumn magic involves all our senses,” says Federica Contardi, national visual merchandiser for Citta. “It’s when we prepare our homes to feel warm and welcoming for the cooler weather ahead, and as it begins to get darker, with the lamps turned on and the candles lit, the house has that special atmosphere… comfortable and warm.”
So, if the tap of autumn on your front door has you hankering for a new throw to, well, throw on your couch, or to finally slap a new coat of paint on your walls, we’ve pulled together a change-ofseason styling workshop to help you do just that.
COLOUR
Traditional autumn colours dictate that orange be front and centre during the season and this year is no different; burnt and dusty oranges take pride of place among the earthy browns, olive and sage greens, and warm sandy neutrals also trending this season.
“These soft and cosy colours are all found in nature,” explains Dulux colour specialist Davina Harper. “They appeal to our need for comfort, restfulness and calm in our homes.” Neutral colours like these never really go out of style, so you can be reassured this colour palette will stand the test of time.”
Davina suggests Dulux Haast Half as a great base colour to layer soothing, earthy tones on top, such as Dulux Morocco Tan and Dulux Olive Blend. “I love the sense of warmth and cosiness autumn colours can bring to a space,” says Davina. I’ve always been drawn to soft, earthy neutrals as they go with so many colours and create a calm and relaxing atmosphere.”
If a warming colour scheme is the autumnal goal, then a tonal colour scheme will take you there. A monochromatic, or tonal, colour scheme is made up of one main hue with different shades in the same main colour group layered on top. There are two important things to remember when putting together a tonal room. Firstly, ensure all your colours have the same undertone (i.e. warm or cool). And secondly, add contrast. Intoducing texture, pattern, or a contrast colour will prevent a tonal room from appearing too flat.
So, for a room full of autumnal colours, a calming sea or dusty sky blue is the perfect hue, says Federica. When combined with earthy neutrals and burnt oranges, it re-creates a nostalgic colour combination with a modern refresh.