As the days grow shorter and temperatures cool, we’re naturally drawn to darker, richer tones as our biological clocks adjust. At Hanna Li Interiors, we specialize in creating bespoke spaces that embody our clients’ stories, and fall is the favorite season for many of our clients for a plethora of reasons. Adding fall foliage and darker design elements are fun ways to mix up your home for a sophisticated, expensive look with minimal effort. Here are some ideas to incorporate the season.
Darker Hues on Statement Pieces
A simple way to add depth and history to your home is by introducing darker hues in your furniture and accessories. Don’t be afraid of colors or textures! Think of rich greens, deep burgundy, and gunmetal blues that create a moody, yet weighted ambiance. At our studio, we often suggest incorporating these colors through statement pieces, like a sitting chair, a dark wood coffee table, or a black -veined marble console. Darker tones in these core items anchor the room, giving it a tailored feel that aligns with the weather & hosting season.
If you’re not ready for a big commitment, try adding darker accent pillows, throws, or even a big area rug with deep-toned patterns. These touches can be subtle, but add incredible warmth and richness, making your home feel cozy yet refined.
Incorporate Fresh Seasonal Foliage
The key is either fresh or preserved, never faux. Bringing fall foliage indoors is one of the most effective ways to capture the season’s essence. However, sophisticated décor calls for more than the typical pumpkins or dried corn stalks. Instead, focus on refined arrangements featuring burgundy branches, dark eucalyptus, or olive stems. These elements bring texture and a curated vibe to your space, for that added touch of intentionality.
We love using arrangements that pair well with antique vases in ceramic, bronze, or black glass. These darker vessels complement the fall foliage and elevate it from rustic to chic. During a dinner or get together, consider filling a vase with real dark berries, like hypericum or viburnum berries, which add a unique texture and look stunning as a table centerpiece or on a console.
Play with Textured Fabrics and Metallics
The combination of textured fabrics with dark, metallic accents is a hallmark of high-end design. Fall is the perfect time to experiment with textures like velvet, wool, and genuine leather. Adding a velvet throw in a deep hue, a cashmere blanket, or leather-bound trays instantly elevates the look of your living space, giving it a rich, layered feel that feels luxurious yet inviting.
Adding metallic accents, like antique patina brass or matte black, can further enhance your existing furniture. Choose items such as candle holders, picture frames, or decorative objects with metallic finishes that bring a subtle shimmer against the deeper, fall-inspired hues. These finishes add an expensive touch without overpowering the room.
Opt for Ambient Lighting and Candles
Curating an atmosphere isn’t just about colors and materials—lighting plays a crucial role too, as mentioned in our previous journal. As the days grow shorter, use warm, ambient lighting to give your space a soft warm glow. Table lamps, wall sconces, and even floor lamps with warm-toned bulbs create a cozy feel in any room. We recommend upgrading all electrical switches with a dimmer, which isn’t all too expensive but offers amazing flexibility to set the perfect mood for every moment.
For a classic fall touch, place candles in chic holders on side tables, mantels, or coffee tables. Opt for candles in colors like burgundy, dark green, or amber, which bring out the fall palette. Fire & natural wood tones always bring that nostalgic feeling of being home with family for the holidays.
To read more of our design content, please visit our Journal Page.