Just outside the windows of our Soho store, the leaves are turning into a swirling array of orange, yellow, red, and brown. It’s hard not to be wowed by the multitude of color, and it’s color that we’re coveting this fall. We’re not talking just about the shades of burnt orange and sunbaked yellow that are so abundant this time of year; we want even more rich color.
During the past few seasons, we’ve seen color trend back toward powerful hues. They’ve come in pops on a pillow or stitching on a blanket. Now they’re swathed over ottomans and sofas and making a statement on cozy and sophisticated textiles.
“Neutral colors are a beautiful foundation, but I think a layer of color provides a way for people to personalize their space and create rich, cozy, and elegant interiors,” says Charlotte Hutchings, director of creative at One Kings Lane.
Jewel tones are the colors we’re coveting this fall. Sapphire blues, emerald greens, and amethyst hues are freshening up our palette. Shown above: our exclusive Millbrae Sectional in Barley Crypton and Portsmouth Upholstered Ottoman in Fig Velvet, and Kim Salmela’s Jackie Swivel Club Chair in Indigo Velvet (far right).
Color Theory
The autumnal color story is all about high-impact hues: jewel tones such as sapphire, amethyst, emerald, and citrine. “They convey both regality and liveliness in a home and create such a personal impact,” Charlotte says.
Abstract art, whatever the palette, provides a jolt of energy in any space you place it.
Mixing jewel tones with soft neutrals and other muted palettes gives them a chance to shine. “They balance each other out,” says Charlotte. Abstract art is a perfect way to sneak in the colors of the season. Jewel tones don’t have to be extreme pops of color. They can come across as elegant and even subdued when layered into artwork. As a bonus, vibrant pieces of abstract art can add a bit of edge to even the most classic rooms.
Colorful textiles are perhaps the easiest way to make an impactful change. One striking pillow or fresh bedding can transform the ambience of a space. We’re still fans of the classic blue and white, but now we’re pairing the white with peacock blue rather than (or in addition to) navy and indigo.
Blue-and-white bedding is a good choice year-round. Furniture in deeper tones, such as our exclusive Dumont Bench in Harbor Blue (against the wall) and the Delmar Channel Bed in Sand Velvet, bring an air of fall into the room.
Material Matters
With autumn’s cooler temperatures comes the desire to cozy up with something warm. You can find warmth in chunky knits, delightfully sturdy wools, and lush, plush velvets. Velvet, in fact, is one of our favorites to use in fall. It evokes evenings at swank speakeasies and chic dinner parties in Park Avenue pieds-à-terre. We’ll always love a good tufted velvet chesterfield sofa, but this season we’re using velvet on more-contemporary pieces as well. Think midcentury-style chairs in emerald or deep orange, or an acrylic-and-chrome bench with a plush velvet seat, or a straight-lined daybed in moss green or mink brown. Even the most severe modern silhouettes are immediately softened when covered in sumptuous velvets.
The rich color and modern silhouette of the Ella Accent Chairs in Emerald Velvet provide a dynamic contrast to the serenity of the neutral traditional rug. The chairs’ curves also complement the straight lines of the Lexi Sideboard.
Persimmon is another color we’re loving this fall. These Piper Stools from Kim Salmela add a touch of glam to an entryway full of texture and pattern.
Abstract art by Rebecca Stern and the Corinth Large Marble Candleholder add a modern twist to this classic mantel.
Once the days get cooler and shorter, our home becomes our retreat.
Fall foliage can last a whole season with our selection of beautiful faux arrangements.
Alfresco Autumn
In regions of the country where the onset of fall doesn’t mean running inside, cozy textures still make wonderful additions. Knit blankets, outdoor rugs, and a little faux foliage bring the fall vibes to those who live in seasonless environments.
5 Quick Picks for a Fall Refresh
- Update your bedding: One of the easiest changes to make is also one of the most impactful.
- Dress up your shelves: A vase with a striking silhouette, metallic or marble bookends, or a unique vintage objet can easily breathe new life into a space.
- Hang new art: Even in the most classic settings, abstract art brings a welcome dash of fun.
- Set a fresh table: Fall means that holiday entertaining is on the horizon. Start fresh this year with a new set of table linens, plates, and other tabletop accessories.
- Use pillows or throws for a pop of color: If you aren’t ready to fully commit to a jewel-tone palette, start with the little things. Pillows, blankets, and other small textiles are easy to switch up.
Large-scale paintings in fabulous colors, like these from Lillian August, brighten up an entryway. Benton Ottomans in Mustard Yellow ground the scene in a warmer color scheme.
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