Whether you’re considering a total revamp – or a simple update – experiment with layers, tones and onceoff furnishings. Below are two local interior designers’ takes on seasonal musts:
Colour
“Trending colours for autumn are black, rust, green, shiitake mushroom and millennial pink,” says interior designer Sihan Wiid of Mink Interiors. “The Pantone colour of the year, Living Coral, is a warm, peachy orange that can be used on walls as well as in upholstery, lighting and key furniture pieces.”
This colour goes well with green accents – contrast is a big trend and gives that wow factor. Nikki Zigras, lead designer at Studio do Cabo, adds mustard and terracotta tones are also worth exploring for their bold warmth. “These tones evoke the current revival for handmade earthenware.”
Key tip:
Don’t overdo it. “Incorporate mustard in a lowcost way by painting a mini feature wall,” Zigras suggests. A 2m x 1.5m block on a long passageway, complete with quirky tribal art, creates a warm interlude in a long corridor.
A mustard mini feature wall in a Mouille Point holiday flat named Beach Retreat. Picture: Nikki Zigra
Lighting
According to Zigras, statement minimalist lighting, with decorative art deco rounded shapes, is making a comeback. “Brass lighting is an easy way to add opulence and warmth to your scheme,” she says, while Wiid adds that wall lights – rather than overhead lights – are a way of creating instant ambience when the weather cools and there is less natural light.
Key tip:
If you don’t want to overhaul all the lights in your home, a key desk lamp or table lamp can add an element of intimacy and warmth. Brass has a lovely warm hue and looks at home in contemporary as well as more traditional homes.
Fabrics and wallpaper
“Sustainable and natural fabrics are a key trend this autumn,” says Zigras. “Embrace it in upholstered furniture, throws, cushions and tapestries. Stonewashed linen comes in many patterns, colours, and looks great without being ironed or steamed.”
While contrasting fabrics and textures always add interest to a space, velvet is a key trend for the chillier months. This tactile retro fabric adds comfort and glamour to even the most modest rooms. “Lattice designs, weaves and organic abstract art fabrics are also coming into play,” Wiid says.
When it comes to wallpaper, think large colour prints, florals, clouds, birds and decadent, abstract shapes. “Marble, brass and smoked glass are excellent finishes for accent pieces, such as side tables,” says Zigras. “These materials reflect light and add interest to an otherwise unloved corner.”
Key tip:
Consider plush velvet upholstered statement chairs – or simply add a few plump velvet cushions. Try introducing overblown wallpaper in a guest bathroom.
Flooring
“Terrazzo is coming to the fore as a lovely alternative to the cement floors we have been seeing for over 10 years,” says Wiid. “Glamorous terrazzo can be used to make kitchen counter tops, vanities, furniture pieces and decorative artworks.” Zigras finds thick-pile rugs to add luxe to chilly rooms.
“Instead of carpeting an entire room, rather use tiles and then add a very large shaggy flokati rug. Removable rugs are much easier to keep clean. “For wooden floors, handloomed rugs (such as kelims) have good longevity and their irregularities add more character than machine-made rugs.”
Key tip:
“One DIY way to give your room a lift with a trending element is to make your own terrazzo table top,” says Wiid. Use crumbled glass colour tiles and white cement to create the effect.”