Autumn trends are upon us and it’s time to consider a change-up in your living space to accommodate the new season. This needn’t be an overhaul and it doesn’t mean you need to get rid of everything you already have and buy everything new – very few of us have that luxury and it’d be a waste anyway. It’s about small but significant changes here and there that allow for a more cosy, welcoming environment. The nights will get longer, the days shorter and the temperatures – alas – are bound to drop. This means plenty of indulgent soft furnishings, potentially considering a deeper colour palette and moving away from the bright or pastel shades of summer and creating a space that you’re more than happy to spend lots of time in.
Here’s our pick of this season’s key trends.
1. Maps
Maps are making a comeback. Maybe you’ll dig out an old vintage globe to sit on top of a side table, or maybe you’ll keep it simple with map themed prints. Last season, we couldn’t get enough of typography on our walls and now that’s shifting a little bit in favour of minimalist interpretations of your favourite destination’s map. Will you choose a vibrant ode to Manhattan? Or a neutral nod to Paris?
Copenhagen map, iamfy.com, from €21
2. Chunky knits
In the same way that we will soon be donning our winter woollies as far as our wardrobe is concerned, we’re also embracing this winter trend in our soft furnishings too. One of our favourite ways to do this is with a knitted footstool or ottoman. It’s a new and interesting way to add texture to your room and winter is all about cosy and luxurious textures. Beyond that, it embracing this trend could not be easier than with chunky knit throws, or cable knit cushion covers.
Hand Knit Round Pouf Collection, from €59.95 Meadows & Byrne
3. Au natural
This isn’t necessarily new, but it’s staying put for Autumn/Winter 2017. We’re loving everything natural and in its original form, be it a reclaimed wood coffee table or a round rattan table with a glass top or even a jute rug. Think of raw and undressed materials such as wood, glass, lots of greenery, muslin rugs, Berber baskets and more. Avoid modified plastics to keep your interiors feeling fresh and contemporary.
Frida Rattan Side Table, Amara
4. Statement lighting
Dare we say it, the day of the vintage filament light bulb is drawing to a close. We’re moving slightly away from quite that level of minimalism, and instead of having loads of lights like this, we might choose one statement light to hang above our dining table. One key light that throws off a warm glow can add instant autumn vibes to your pad.
Monochrome lampshade, from £33, Love Frankie
5. New metals
Copper and gold are out the window. Brass is taking over massively, but what you’ll start to see more of is Gatsby era style trays and drinks trolleys that have a hammered silver effect and more pewter coloured metallics. There’ll also be lots of glass such as a coffee table tray with a glass base and mirrors aplenty.
Quirky homewares from Mia Fleur in the UK, which we LOVE