Autumn reset: 7 top tips for refreshing your home for the season ahead

Exbury 3 seater sofa in V&A Threads of India Mughal Arbour Hunter Green

As September arrives, it brings with it a sense of new beginnings—a “back to school” feeling that stirs up fresh energy and the desire for a reset. The long, lazy days of summer are fading, and it’s time to prepare for the cooler months ahead. As autumn settles in, a natural shift occurs in our daily routines. Summer clothes are swapped for waterproofs, salads give way to hearty soups, and nights out are traded for cosy evenings in. Enhancing an autumnal feeling at home doesn’t require a major overhaul — just a few thoughtful changes with practicality in mind can help us transition comfortably into the season. However, this period can also be a productive and timely moment for making more significant changes, preparing the house in good time for guests and festivities around the Christmas period.

So here are our top tips to reset your home this autumn, ranging from simple tweaks to bolder transformations.

1. Build cosy layers into your soft furnishings

Autumn is all about touch and tactility. To make your home immediately more inviting, add layers of softly textured textiles as cushions, sofa throws and blankets. Not only do these additions make a space feel warmer, but they also add a sense of comfort that aligns beautifully with the season. Simply swapping scatter cushions or adding a knitted throw can instantly make your space feel cosier and more seasonal. Whether your preference is for velvet, or wool, or linen or cotton blends, choose materials that build up the look and feel you desire, adding interest with seasonal colours, different textures and patterns.

Arncliffe 3 seater sofa in Traditional Vintage Velvet Olive
Arncliffe 3 seater sofa in Traditional Vintage Velvet Olive

Trend tip: 2025 looks see to see a growing interest in nature-inspired interiors. We are seeing a clear attraction to organic shapes, botanical prints, and earthy colours. This trend is all about bringing the outside in, creating a space that feels both grounded and inviting.

2. Accentuate a cosy atmosphere with lighting and candles

Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood for autumn. Opt for warm, atmospheric lighting using a mix of floor lamps, table lamps, and candles. This layered lighting approach not only adds a soft glow to your space but also enhances the cosy, inviting atmosphere we crave as the nights grow longer. Don’t underestimate the power of subtle changes— like bringing in lampshades in warmer, or deeper shades. Candles and candle holders, too, are also great for making a space feel warmer and more atmospheric.

Trend tip: There is a clear desire for rich, but natural tones, and tactile fabrics, like velvets, that contribute to a cocooning effect, perfect for autumn and winter.

3. Keep your connection with nature with seasonal flowers and foliage

What better way to mirror nature’s transitions than by incorporating seasonal flowers and foliage into your home decor? September blooms, hedgerow foliage and berries will add an authentic seasonal touch to your space.

Detail of Chiddingfold 3 seater sofa in V&A Threads of India Regal Arabesque Flame with Linwood Omega Velvet Tawney
Chiddingfold 3 seater sofa in V&A Threads of India Regal Arabesque Flame with Omega Velvet Tawney

4. Enjoy pieces in a new light

A simple reshuffle of existing furniture and ornaments can make a world of difference. Moving an armchair to a new position, or switching the location of artwork, mirrors and other accessories can give spaces a completely different look, making a room feel instantly refreshed. It also gives you the opportunity to consider if a space is fulfilling your needs for it, and how you might improve it’s look, feel or utility.

5. Embrace the notion of ‘fika’

Adopt the Swedish concept of fika this autumn – a cherished tradition of taking a break with coffee, tea, and something sweet. Fika is about slowing down, enjoying the moment, and fostering connections, either with those around you, or your surroundings. It’s an invitation to pause, reflect, and savour the simple pleasures in life, making it an ideal ritual to incorporate into your autumn reset. Set up a cosy corner dedicated to moments of relaxation and refreshment, complete with comfortable seating and soft cushions. Position this space near a window if possible, so you can enjoy the changing autumn scenery while you take your break.

Exbury 3 seater sofa in Ganton Woven Linen Red
Exbury 3 seater sofa in Ganton Woven Linen Red

Design tip: Why not include a upholstered footstool in the room, perhaps instead of a coffee table. The soft upholstery will add to the feeling of comfort, while providing an excellent place to rest a tea tray laden with tasty treats.

Hampton 3 seater sofa in Super Soft Velvet Highland Green
Hampton 3 seater sofa in Super Soft Velvet Highland Green

 Easy update: Refresh your current rotation of coffee table books, bringing in themes that reflect the season.

6. Refresh your bedding, and turn your mattress too

With the nights drawing in, your bedroom becomes an even more important retreat. Take the opportunity to rotate and turn your mattress when you swap out your summer-weight duvet for a warmer one. Ring the changes with new bedding, or add cosy bedspreads, bolsters and cushions to enhance the feeling of sanctuary in your bedroom. Perfect for an early night!

Shoreditch king bed in V&A-Drawn from Nature Oak Tree Natural
Shoreditch king bed in V&A-Drawn from Nature Oak Tree Natural

7. Look ahead and set your intentions for the year end

Finally, the shift into autumn provides a natural pause to reassess and plan ahead to the end of the year, and into next. Take this moment to reflect on your goals and intentions for your home. Whether it’s re-evaluating your routines or your living spaces, or simply taking time to enjoy the slower pace, use this season as a springboard for positive change.

If you’re considering updates to your living spaces, we offer a range of creative, personalised solutions for sofas, chairs, footstools, and beds that cater to your unique needs and style. Feel free to visit our showrooms or reach out to book a free design consultation to explore how we can assist in bringing your vision to life.

Abby Gadd