Create your own autumn retreat at home

As autumn arrives, it brings with it a unique opportunity to transform your home into a cozy haven, says Alison Inverdale

Curate your personal autumn sanctuary. With the crisp air and falling leaves outside, there’s no better time to indulge in all things warm and inviting. Create your own autumn retreat at home using everything from comfy clothing and blankets to soul-soothing soups and binge-worthy box sets.

Get comfortable

As temperatures drop, it’s time to break out your favourite snuggly wardrobe items. Think soft jumpers, flannel shirts, and warm socks. The key is to stay comfortable and snug while you embrace the changing season.

Nothing says autumn like wrapping yourself in a warm, fluffy blanket. Invest in a few cozy throws in autumnal hues to scatter around your home. They’re perfect for huddling up on the couch with a book or a cup of tea.

Create a dedicated reading nook with a comfy chair or bean bag and a well-stocked bookshelf. There’s no better time to lose yourself in a good book than during the autumn months.

Love the idea of avoiding the stress and spending Christmas Day alone?!

Food and drink

Experiment with autumn-inspired recipes. From apple pie to roasted root vegetables, the culinary possibilities are endless. Cooking and baking can be therapeutic and delicious.

Autumn is the season of hearty, comforting soups. Explore new recipes or revisit old favourites like butternut squash, chicken noodle, or creamy tomato soup. The aroma of simmering soup can instantly make your home feel warm and inviting.

Hot apple cider, mulled wine, hot chocolate, chai tea – autumn-inspired beverages like this will give your taste buds a hug. Keep a variety of warm drinks on hand to snuggle up with on chilly evenings.

Autumn décor

If the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness inspires you to change up your home, embrace the colours and symbols of autumn in your home décor. Think rustic pumpkins, dried leaves and flowers, logs, and warm-toned candles. Small touches can transform your space into an autumn wonderland.

Incorporate elements of nature into your home. Collect pinecones, acorns, or colourful leaves to create simple yet charming centrepieces. It’s a wonderful way to bring the beauty of the outdoors inside.

Adjust your lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Swap out bright overhead lights for softer, warmer tones. Candles and string lights can add a magical touch.

Scented candles or essential oils in scents like cinnamon, vanilla, and cedarwood can fill your home with the comforting aroma of autumn. It’s an easy way to enhance your sensory experience. Check if you have pets though, as some of these essences and oils can be hazardous to their health.

Autumn entertainment

These evenings are just made for binge-watching box sets. Curate a list of TV shows or movies you’ve been meaning to watch and create a cozy viewing area. Don’t forget the popcorn – or one of those yummy hot drinks!

Take time for yourself in the changing seasons too. Reflect on the nature of autumn as you create this autumn retreat at home. Set aside time for mindfulness or meditation to connect with the changing season on a deeper level. It’s an excellent way to find inner peace and tranquillity.

Enjoy your retreat!

None of us like the days getting shorter, the light diminishing and the temperature dropping. But autumn can be a delight with the right approach.

As autumn envelops your surroundings, seize the opportunity! With comfortable clothing, cozy blankets, warming soups, and a dash of seasonal décor, you can turn your living space into a haven of comfort and contentment.