How to make your space cozy and calm for the fall

Autumn is definitely here, so it's time to make things as cozy as possible! There are many different approaches to making your surroundings seasonal: you can go with festive, bright colors and playful decor, or - as I am choosing to do this year - you can go for calm and serene. As much as I like fun and colorful autumn and Halloween decor, this year I am more drawn to muted colors and simplicity. Maybe there is just too much going on in my life, but it makes me happier and calmer to look at this kind of decor instead of all the bright colors and written signs that you usually see. So here are 8 tips on how to create a cozy and relaxing atmosphere for the fall.



Tip 1. Let in the natural light

The soft autumn sunlight is so relaxing in itself, that letting it in makes the whole room feel serene. So open up those curtains or even the windows if its not too cold where you live, and let the season come inside.

Tip 2. Soft fabrics

It gets chilly in the evenings now, so a couple of soft blankets and throw pillows will definitely come in handy. But also just the sight of soft and fluffy textures can make you feel more comfortable and relaxed.

Tip 3. Muted colors

As I mentioned, this year I'm choosing a more modest color palette for autumn because it feels more relaxing after a stressful day. So if you're going for something similar, try to avoid busy patterns, loud colors and too many written signs.


Tip 4. Keep it simple

Keep the decorations simple and elegant. You don't need to overcrowd every surface with pumpkins and leaves and lanterns and spiders and bats and ghosts and spooky mugs and signs....Just slow down, and try to appreciate how the light brings out the interesting shape of a beautiful decor piece. This will basically force you to stop for a minute and think about what you see.

Tip 5. Decor from nature

Bringing the outside in is not only festive and calming, it is also very cost effective! Go out into the woods, or into the garden if you have one, and pick up a few pine cones, conkers and branches to use as your decor. Natural things have a soothing presence.



Tip 6. Put it away

Put away anything that makes you anxious. May that be your laptop, your bills, the work you brought home, an unopened letter, kids toys, any clutter that prevents you from relaxing. Put it away in a drawer or cupboard where you can't see it and only take it out when you have to.

Tip 7. Cozy reminders

Think about the activities that you find cozy and relaxing and keep little reminders of those activities around. Bring them into your decor. For example, if you like looking at old photos, put a photo album on your coffee table, if you like drinking hot tea, use a teacup in your decor, if you find apple picking or long walks relaxing, keep a basket of apples in the corner somewhere or you can even use your boots as decor, next to the door. This will either remind you of all the fun times you had, doing what you love to do, or, it will remind you to do those things if you haven't. 

Tip 8. Soft lights and music

And finally, what could be more cozy and relaxing than candlelight and soft music. In the evenings, dim the lights if you can, light some candles and put on a little music. This will definitely help you relax after a hard day.