5 ways to style your home for autumn

Interior designer Hannah Ashe shares her transitional decorating ideas

A little while ago Hannah Ashe of Chez Hanny asked me to guest on her latest series of Creative Career Change, a podcast exploring the joys and challenges of multi-hyphenate life. (You can now listen to the full podcast here).

We chatted about all sorts of things, from juggling deadlines and establishing multiple income streams, to growing self-confidence, navigating overwhelm and setting boundaries. We also discussed all things interiors. Because Hannah is a brilliant interior designer, as well as being a Substacker, music teacher, podcaster and writer.

In celebration of the changing seasons, I asked Hannah to share her favourite autumn decorating ideas with me. From creating a cosy atmosphere to injecting a dose of colour, here’s how to add a little comfort to your home this fall. Over to Hannah…

1.      Create a cosy atmosphere  

It’s time to draw the curtains, snuggle up on the couch and light a candle or two. I first discovered Han London Candles during lockdown. They’re hand made in small batches by the lovely Cindy who lives in West London. The ‘Nest’ scent, which is my favourite of the range, includes a blend of lavender, lavendin, Roman chamomile, jasmine, black pepper and clary sage. Light it before bed as the oils aid restful sleep and ease anxiety.

2.        Invest in mid-century furniture

There’s something about restored wood that brings warmth into the home. If you love mid-century furniture, look to Sussex-based Belle & Co, which has an excellent selection of stylish yet affordable pieces, with stock being updated regularly. These Ercol armchairs would be perfect in a kitchen diner, with a blanket draped over them.

The onion skin and cream gingham blanket by Freight HHG

3.        Be brave with textiles

Nothing says autumn quite like cosy layering. This season, I’m loving Freight HHG’s blanket and cushion collection. The colours are beautifully rich and the fabrics — think soft lambswool and gorgeous linens — will add texture to your sofas and armchairs. My pick of the bunch is this super soft gingham blanket (above) made from 100% lambswool. Perfect for wrapping around your shoulders as the cool nights draw in.

4.        Take bedding seriously

Good bedding is so often overlooked. But it can make all the difference to a good night’s sleep, especially when the mercury drops. I think Bedfolk’s linen and cotton range is up there with the best there is.  The cotton quilt in rust (below) is super warm and will beautifully complement a wide range of other colours. It is machine washable and tumble dryer friendly which makes it very practical too.

5.        Introduce bold colours

Just because it’s autumn doesn’t mean you have to dial down the colour. Jessica Ford’s vibrant paintings and prints will enliven even the darkest of rooms on wet, rainy days. I particularly love the bold, bright Uma print. I recently published a post on my Substack detailing other easy ways to inject a little colour into your life & home.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION…How are you preparing your home for the new season? I’ll go first…I’m investing in an all-singing-all-dancing blender as autumn means warm, comforting dishes like soups, stews and casseroles are back on the cards. If anyone has any hearty recipes to share, I’m all ears…