SEPTEMBER 2018
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S“easeâ€?onal DĂŠcor Is it possible that fall will soon be here and that the holidays are just around the corner? There’s a refreshing dip (hopefully) in temperature as we trade outside summer gardening projects for interior home improvement plans. It’s the time of the year to turn over a new leaf ;) and make your home a warm and inviting place in preparation for the next few months of cooler weather. For inspiration, you only have to look outside, or take a short drive to Julian or Idyllwild to see beautiful fall colors. Imagine buttery leather chairs with tapestry pillows flecked with warm browns and creams and richly textured natural elements. Add a mug of warm apple cider and life is perfect! You can incorporate that cozy feeling in your home by changing your color scheme and furniture arrangement. With a little creativity, you can give your home a new comfy look without major investment. Accessories are a good place to begin because small changes can make a big difference. For starters, consider changing/adding an area rug in your family or living room. Selecting one with autumn colors will immediately make your room feel cozier and more intimate. A rug will clearly define a conversation area and the colors in it can be used throughout the room for a cohesive look. The focal point in your room may also change as does the season. It may be the perfect time to rearrange your furniture to optimize TV and or fireplace viewing. For another level of com fort, toss a fleece throw or chunky knitted blanket over the arm of a sofa or chair or drape a colorful one over the back of a plain sofa. If you want them nearby (for when you curl up to watch your favorite show) display them in a way that is both decorative and handy. You can roll them up and place in a large basket or fold neatly and stack on an antique chair or bench. If you have a few clear glass containers you already have the basics for a quick and easy way to introduce an autumn pallet. Simply fill with fall leaves, branches or pinecones gathered from your backyard or local craft store. Vary the size and shape of the containers and display together for maximum impact. Place a candle in a vase a bowl or jar partially filled with popcorn kernels or candy corn, arrange on a tray and voila . . . a pretty centerpiece! Accent pillows are another easy way to add pizzazz and a pop of autumn color to your home. (Be sure to plop one in every chair to maximize TV viewing comfort!) If you already have a collection of pillows, they can be modified with covers to suit your new color scheme. If you’re a crafty person, you can save money by sewing your own. If you’re short on time or talent, they can be purchased at a price more reasonable than buying new ones. For a no – sew
quick change, look in your closet for a fall inspired scarf and wrap/tie it around a pillow. Super easy and fun to do! I grew up in Upstate New York where fall colors were amazing and childhood memories of jumping in a pile of leaves still make me smile. Maybe that’s why this time of year is a favorite of mine or maybe it’s just because a new season is a good reason to rearrange furniture and change my color scheme! I have a feeling it’s both. I’m ready for that mug of warm apple cider now . . . so until next month, I wish you happy home redecorating! Temecula resident Rita Wood, The Room Arranger has been a certified member of the Interior Redecorators Network since 1999. Her specialty is helping clients transform their home using the furniture and accessories they already own and love. To learn more, visit her website www.theroomarranger.com or attend one of her decorating classes at Hobby Lobby. Call 315-481-9659 for details.