Autumn design trends warm up indoor spaces as weather cools

By Rosemary Sadez Friedmann
Scripps Howard News Service

The cool days are closing in, so what should we do to make our homes comfy and cozy this autumn?

Let’s start with wood-burning stoves. These have been around forever and never go out of style. Wood-burning stoves provide warmth and create an inviting feeling in any home.

If you have a real fireplace, open it up and use it. If not, consider one of many artificial fireplace options; these still offer a warm glow and warm look.

Men’s fashions are making a statement in home interiors. Yes, the classic, conservative, well-groomed look is popular this fall. It’s a tailored look, more popular than the fluffy, flowery stuff.

Shabby chic has been popular for a long time and needs an update. The new term is “upcycled.” It means the vintage look but with a new lease on life. To upcycle, consider taking an old piece of furniture and repainting it a bold color. Or think about reupholstering old chairs in a splashy material.

Metals are popular this fall. Gold tones have a warm feeling while silver comes across as sleek and sophisticated. Knickknacks, candlesticks, table bases and picture frames all are available in metal.

If you like gold, pair it with black and tan in upholstery. A lamp with a gold base looks great coupled with a black shade. If you like silver, pair it with black and white. Change that gold lamp base to silver and keep the black shade; again, you have a great look. Gold picture frames with black matting or silver picture frames with black matting can be added to the accessory list. Either combination enhances a stylish, well-designed room.

In addition to metal, stone, wood, crystals and gems are popular this fall. Stone floors or wood floors are great year-round. The crystals and the gems fit right in with or without the metal accessories. The look is earthy and enticing.

(Rosemary Sadez Friedmann, an interior designer in Naples, Fla., is author of “Mystery of Color.” Write her at DsgnQuest@aol.com. Distributed by Scripps Howard News Service, www.shns.com.)