Give your home a makeover for autumn

The autumnal nights are here, but is your home ready for those long, cosy evenings?

A seasonal change of scenery can make all the difference – and you’ll be pleased to know you don’t need to spend big to give your home a bit of a facelift.

Here are our top tips to help you add autumnal touches to your home.

1. Switch out summer colours for rich, earthy tones

It’s time to say goodbye to bright or pastel palettes because autumnal shades have arrived!

While a feature wall in your favourite fall colours, such as an earthy green or tempting terracotta, can make any space pop, you don’t always have to whip out the paintbrush to make a big difference to your home’s style.

Upgrading your soft furnishings can be just as powerful. Swap out your curtains, throws and cushions to update the look and feel of your home without blowing your budget. Keep an eye out for home décor in dark oranges, deep reds and even a hint of gold to add gorgeous autumnal vibes.

2. Mix up those textures

It’s not just about the way your home looks… it’s how it feels, too. Add touches of warmth and comfort with cosy textured soft furnishings, from fluffy rugs to velvet cushions.

Not only do snug textiles look the part, they’ll keep you toasty too. Heavy duvets, flannel sheet bedding and thicker curtains are perfect for chillier months. Is there anything better than tucking up in a luxuriously thick knitted throw or wool blanket with a hot chocolate in hand?

3. Add a welcoming wreath

Wreaths are a year-round trend nowadays, so hang a stunning autumnal wreath on your front door to start the season off in style. Woven branches, pinecones or dried flowers will jazz up the entrance to your home perfectly.

If your front door doesn’t quite have the kerb appeal you desire, why not invest in upgrading? Front doors come in a variety of designs and colours so you can create an aesthetic that will have you looking forward to coming home each night.

4. Swap out your ornaments and artwork

Many of us pack away our summer clothing and introduce thicker layers back into our wardrobe, so why don’t we treat our homes to the same style refresh?

Look out for stunning ornaments, statement artwork or photography that captures the spirit of the season. It might be a photograph of autumnal landscapes or a pumpkin-themed ornament to adorn your windowsill. Whatever you choose, you can then rotate your favourite pieces of art throughout the seasons so you’ll always have that refreshed feeling.

If you’re doing up your home on a budget, try your hand at home décor DIY instead of defaulting to shop-bought decorations. From autumn leaf garlands to homemade potpourri, there are plenty of ways you can get creative this season.

5. Make your space smaller

This might sound strange… but stick with us. When you’re ready to snuggle down for a movie marathon or enjoy a lazy weekend reading on the sofa, a smaller space might be just what you’re after.

Split up your room with a temporary divider such as a folding screen, creating the perfect atmosphere for a cosy night in. This is ideal if you’re looking for ways to maximise space around the home.

6. Get ready to host

Dare we mention Christmas just yet? Many of us are already planning the festive season – including setting the scene with fabulous new décor.

Rustic centrepieces, patterned table runners and seasonal dinnerware should be top of your shopping list if you’re preparing to welcome guests over the next few months.

Now’s the time to start thinking about those bigger purchases, too. Is your dining table set big enough for the whole family to gather round, or has your sofa seen better days? Make sure you order furniture in plenty of time to arrive for the festive season.

Many retailers offer finance that allows you to spread the cost of your order, too, which could be suitable if you don’t have time to save up and want to get your hands on some nice new furniture sooner.

7. Bring the outdoors in

Incorporate nature-inspired décor that reflects the season. While wood is the more obvious choice, you can add a rustic touch by incorporating other natural materials such as wicker, bamboo, dried pampas and rattan.

Save fresh flowers for spring and invest in dried flowers or grasses like wheat or pampas grass that will last all season long, adding touches of nature without going over the top.

Don’t forget spooky season is just around the corner, too. Pumpkins (whether ceramic, velvet, knitted – whatever you pick!) make the perfect windowsill decorations, both before and after Halloween itself.

Room for improvement this autumn?

If your home needs a little more than a subtle change with the season, check out how our low-cost home improvement loan can help you turn your dream into a reality. You can borrow between £1,000 and £35,000 with competitive rates from as low as 6.9% APR Representative (£7,500-£25,000).