Six interiors trends to embrace this autumn
As the nights draw in, you’ll no doubt find yourself spending more and more time cosying up at home. So, why not make a few decor tweaks to make your space even more inviting this autumn?
We spoke to interior designer Rachel, from Edinburgh-based interior design studio Hen & Crask, and Xanthe, from buy-to-let and commercial interior design service Decorair, to find out all about the top interiors trends to embrace this A/W.
Pretty in pink
Gorgeous feminine tones, such as blush pink, dusky rose and bronze are going to be big news this autumn. “These colours work particularly well for the bedroom, because they’re relaxing shades with a luxurious edge,” says Rachel. “Go all-out with blush walls and crisp white sheets, or soften up your existing decor with some new dusky curtains and bed linen. Finish the look with a metallic bedside lamp and faux sheepskin rug.”
Back to nature
Autumn is often associated with deep, dark hues, but this season it’s all about the neutral colour palette. “Simple themes are in this season, focusing on muted colours and natural materials like light wood and stone, as well as subtly textured fabrics like boucle,” explains Rachel. “Keep an eye out for sustainable handmade pieces from local artists and makers to add a unique, authentic touch to this understated trend”.
This trend is really easy to recreate in your home, as chances are you’ll already have many of the elements. Refresh walls with a coat of pale stone-hued paint, and tie together existing wood furniture with textured cushions, a neutral rug and dried flowers in stoneware vases.
Memphis design
You heard it here first… mid-century is on the way out, and Memphis design is looking set to be the next big retro-inspired interiors trend. Taking inspiration from the Italian design house, Memphis Group, which was big in the ‘80s, this trend is a bold one. “With a focus on primary colours, graphic shapes, tub chairs and curved sofas, Memphis design is a bright and playful style that will suit those looking to make a statement with their home,” adds Xanthe.
If you’re not quite brave enough to opt for a bright pink curved sofa, start by introducing the trend in slightly more subtle ways. Bold geometric prints work well on cushions or artwork, and you can add a hero piece like a colourful side table or armchair to inject some fun into an otherwise neutral room.
Maximalist
“Embraced by design houses such as House of Hackney, maximalist decor is perfect for autumn,” explains Xanthe. “Palm prints, botanica and floral designs continue to be popular, and passamenterie and trims are hip again.”
Achieve the look by painting walls in a deep, rich green and accessorising with mixed metal accents, making sure to include plenty of bold flora and fauna-themed prints. We like ours with a tropical jungle edge.
Dark bathrooms
When it comes to the bathroom, the darker the better. “This season, embrace the darkness in bathrooms with black or very dark colour palettes,” says Rachel.
Think spa-inspired vibes with luxurious dark marble, black units and polished gold accents. We love the contrast of a brass or gold shower head against black subway tiles to create a high-end look in small spaces.
Bold kitchens
Long gone are the days of stark white kitchens. Instead, this autumn we’ll be embracing the trend for a bolder look in this room. “Patterned backsplashes combined with dark units and worktops creates an exciting, modern look. A kitchen has to be functional, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be on-trend too,” advises Xanthe. “Rather than replacing your whole kitchen, give it an update by painting cabinets and re-tiling backsplashes around the cooker and sink.”