Autumn is a season of change and transition, when glaring summer afternoons collapse and are carried away by crisp, cool breezes. At once, you are compelled to enjoy the outdoors anew without the sticky weight of heat. And at the same time, the indoors beckon you to nest in your favorite spot, molding a surrounding to help you physically and spiritually traverse the chill to come.
Prepare your space and surroundings for fall by incorporating comfortable home accents that inspire a new sense of intimacy. Here are five ideas that will help you fall in love with autumn.
Photo from Target.com
Throw Blankets
Hygge is the biggest term in autumnal design. The Danish concept refers to “a mood of coziness and comfortable conviviality with feelings of wellness and contentment.” Or, as far as we’re concerned: the spirit of fall. When you want to cozy up at home, extra blankets are key. Chunky knits are everywhere this season, beckoning you to find a nice, quiet corner and cozy up right in the store. Add faux mohair, wool, fleece, and as many other materials and textures as you want—the more, the cozier.
BUY LOCAL: It’s easy to pick up a cozy, finished blanket at a big-name department store. But when the weather dips and you need an indoor activity, why not try knitting your own? The Wool Room in Hendersonville has all the supplies you need, and even offers classes for beginners and experts.
Photo from AOL.com
Candles and Candlesticks
In Western North Carolina, the sun begins to set earlier and earlier as fall progresses. Our instinct may be to flip the switch on electric lights, but what fun is that? To create an intimate ambiance, invest in candlelight. Fall candles come in many colors and scents, if that’s your thing. Add drama and balance by mixing heights and shapes. Brass candlesticks or other holders can help you bring more warm tones into your home.
BUY LOCAL: Check out the candle selection at Nest Organics in Downtown Asheville. Founded in 2007, Nest Organics offers a wide selection of local, handmade, organic, and eco-friendly goods for your home and family.
Photo from ecowoman.de
Bath Bombs
You wouldn’t normally think of bath accessories as home accents. However, with the right presentation, they can transform your bathroom from utility to luxury. Capitalize on the sensual nature of natural bath bombs by creating a “centerpiece” for your tub. Luxuriate in their ethereal scent even before you’re ready to use them. Bombs scented for fall will help carry your theme into every room of the house.
BUY LOCAL: Hazelwood Soap Company is a family-owned business that uses only the finest of natural ingredients and essential oils in their handmade, small-batch items. Give yourself the gift of aromatherapy and check out their bath bomb selection.
Photo from Target.com
Tea Pot
Fall is one of the best times of year to enjoy a warm pot of tea. Over the last few thousand years, humanity has brewed countless varieties of tea leaves, herbs, and spices. Try something new this season by experimenting with “blooming” teas or herbal combinations. In addition to tasting great (and probably being good for you!), herbal teas smell great. You can also use your tea pot as a functional centerpiece by dressing it up for fall with a pumpkin cozy.
BUY LOCAL: Local ceramists abound in WNC, and it’s a pleasure searching for the right pot for your table. But don’t forget about the tea! We enjoy visiting Spice It Up in Black Mountain. You’ll be sure to find exactly what you want in their selection of 100+ high quality, exotic teas.
Photo from Floret
Evergreen Wreath
Christmas is “the most wonderful time of the year”—so why wait? Buy an evergreen wreath early and enjoy the scents of Fraser fir throughout the season. Evergreen wreaths are generally decorated for winter, but the right additions can make them suitable for the fall, too. Consider adding eucalyptus, lavender, grasses, seed pods, or straw flowers that could work for both seasons. The possibilities are endless!
BUY LOCAL: Did you know that North Carolina produces over 20% of the real Christmas trees sold in the U.S.? And where there’s a beautifully shaped Christmas tree, there’s trimmed limbs that make the perfect wreath. We like the selection at our favorite local farmers markets.
What are your favorite autumnal home accessories? Share them with us in the comments!
