I’ve been following some really fun things happening in design lately, from colorful checkered floors (stay tuned for more on that topic *wink*), to veiny marble slabs, to flush mount lights over islands instead of pendants. Color-drenching is here to stay, and I love seeing the moody, traditional vibes in fall decor.

While you’re not going to switch out bigger ticket items seasonally, I do think it’s fun to try a few things every season that push you out of your comfort zone. So I took some of the trends I’m seeing and broke them down into action items that can be small decor ideas or a weekend DIY — it’s really wherever your autumn heart desires to take you!

1. Paint A Room with Contrast Trim

If you haven’t tried this yet, let me assure you, it is so worth it! I actually categorize painting contrast trim as timeless. Whether you choose a subtle accent or a bold tone-on-tone look, it completely changes the look of the room. This is especially impactful in an all-white room or a room with or without wallpaper. Maybe you love your white walls, but you want to tip toe into the trend, just painting your trim will get you there. Or if you have a painted room with white trim, try on a color…and it doesn’t even have to be the same color as the walls! All of a sudden, you’ve enhanced your home’s visual interest, and it may not even take more than a quart of paint!

2. Add Curtains Behind Glass Doors or Cabinets

Adding curtains behind glass panels in doors is something that’s been trending among high-end designers for awhile, and I’m starting to see it in everyday homes. It’s the best of both worlds: you have this beautiful glass and now you have the option of privacy — or not. I’ve seen it done with crazy prints and saturated color, but note that the curtain is usually gathered so the print is not as obvious. My take? I’m loving butter yellow fabric right now. How pretty would that be behind my pantry doors? 👀

3. Install a Stair Runner

Don’t forget the stairways when you’re thinking of pattern and design! A stair runner can be such a nice touch and also functional for pets and kids. Whether you hire someone or do it yourself like we just did in the back hallway, it really adds that “wow” factor to a forgotten area. I’m thinking about adding a stair runner in the front entry as well (although that one would be hired out with all of those curves!)

4. Layer Tabletop Frames

You know how in all of your favorite classic movies from the 90s there’s a scene of a living room with a console table layered with family photos in frames–that’s our inspo here. Gather a few small (4×6, 5×7 and maybe some 8×10) mismatched frames and display family photos on a side table, mantel, entry table or a dresser! Dig through your travel photos, vintage black & white photos, kid photos — it’s a nostalgic look that feels a little romantic and they’re the perfect backdrop for a cozy fall night curled up with a book.

5. Try Incorporating a Dark Wood Tone

I think people are still gravitating toward lighter weight accent furniture like in the Scandi trend that has been so popular, but I do love the gravitas of darker wood. I’m seeing a lot more cherry, walnut, and mahogany furniture! The trend is moving toward deeper, more reddish tones in flooring, cabinetry, and tables that feels rustic and somehow more fall: like the library at Hogwarts or Friday Night Dinner at the Gilmore mansion. Because dark wood tones add warmth and depth to a space, they can make it feel more traditional, balancing out some of the more minimalist light colors. If you want to try out this trend, pick up a smaller item like a dark wood charcuterie board in the kitchen or a side table for a living room. Or the next time you’re hunting for baskets, reach for the darker toned one.

6. Get a Set of Matching Throws

Shop The Living Room

Here’s the game plan: To breathe new life into your living room, buy two matching throws — plaid preferably — and put them on the backs of chairs or the arm of two couches in the same room. There’s something about having two of the same throws that is such a luxurious look. And you can go fluffier for fall. Think flannel! I got mine from Target last year, and when I set them out, it instantly makes the home feel more ready for fall and pulled together because of the repetitive pattern. Last year, I covered the cushion of my sofa with a plaid throw and it changed the whole vibe instantly!

7. Embrace Freestanding Furniture

Everyone went hard on built-ins for a long time (and I get it, built ins are charming and they can add value to your home), but there is a rise in freestanding furniture. It’s so versatile: you can have a dresser in your entry, an armoire in your living room, or a freestanding island in your kitchen if you don’t already have one. This has a collected look that makes a home feel more rich with history.

8. Consider Cafe Curtains

For years, curtains were considered best when hung “high and wide”, but this fall, we’re focusing on little short half curtains covering just part of a window. You can use them over a window for a little bit of privacy that still lets in so much natural light. You can use them below a sink or counter in lieu of a door or drawer to tuck away things. And because they don’t use as much fabric as full curtains, they’re usually less expensive. I’m not talking overly starched, heavy formal curtains like you may have seen 40 years ago. I’m talking breezy linens that add an old-world charm to the room. I think I’m going to add some cafe curtains to the bonus room windows!

My other goal this fall? It might sound crazy but hey, I’m just happy it’s completely achievable. I want to get an umbrella stand (ordered this one!) and a set of three matching umbrellas to put inside of it. I’m always finding these small umbrellas that are mismatched throughout our house, and it’s so chaotic feeling. I saw a set of tall umbrellas by the front door at a house we were in for a Loloi photoshoot, and it was so aspirational. I’ll share when I’ve found the one that fits the bill!