Housing News

Autumn Vibes: 6 Design Trends to Warm Up Your Home for Fall 2024

Fall has arrived and with it comes the opportunity to cozy up your space for the cooler months. This season’s home design trends are all about creating warmth and a touch of drama.

Think rich, moody colors—deep greens and bold blues—paired with smooth, curved lines and arches that feel both classic and fresh. Jumping on these trends may also boost your home’s value.

Kitchen and bathroom remodels, for example, typically return between 60% and 70% on a homeowner’s investment, according to the National Association of Realtors’ 2022 Remodeling Impact Report.

As the holidays and cold weather approaches, people tend to focus on areas like the kitchen and dining spaces to prepare for more cooking and indoor activities.

"Maybe there's more emphasis on a fireplace wall, cozy areas, or upgrading kitchen appliances," said kitchen designer Susan Serra, founder of Scandinavian Made.

Deciding whether to refresh your home with decor or take on a full remodel depends on your goals. Seasonal updates, like adding a trendy, arched mirror or cozy, oversized seating, may offer a quicker, more affordable fix.

Remodeling is the way to go for bigger changes, like redoing your kitchen or adding major architectural details.

Many homeowners finance renovation work with a home equity loan or line of credit, a FHA 203(k) loan, or a cash-out refinance.

If you’re considering giving your home a makeover, below are five of this fall’s top trends.

1. Deep, dramatic colors are trending

If you're ready to give your home a moodier vibe, many paint companies are predicting jewel tones will be the “it” colors of 2025.

You don't have to wait until next year to get in on this trend of rich sapphire blues, emerald greens, and luxurious purples to give your space that bold, sophisticated feel.

"Look for deep, dramatic colors and materials to create an intimate, sophisticated atmosphere with a touch of drama,” said Mitchell Parker, senior editor for Houzz, a platform for home remodeling and design.

Searches on Houzz for "moody living room" have jumped by 130%, and "moody kitchen" by (102%), according to Parker.

But if dark isn't your thing, warm neutrals like cream, tan, and beige are also trending. These tones create a welcoming space—ideal for curling up with a blanket and a good book as the temperature drops.

2. Fluted and reeded details add texture and personality

One trend that's making waves in home design is fluted and reeded details, often seen in furniture, cabinetry, walls, and architectural accents.

Fluted designs have concave, inward curves that create channel-like grooves, whereas reeded designs feature convex, outwardly bulging ridges. Fluted designs can be used in wall paneling, adding texture and elegance, while reeded details can appear on cabinet doors, side tables, or the legs of furniture, giving them a bold, sculptural look.

Earlier this year, Houzz predicted that fluted and reeded details would begin accenting everything from kitchen islands to bathroom vanities to living room furniture.

"The aesthetic creates a thick, often rough statement-making detail beneath island countertops, bathroom vanities, and dining room tables, adding texture and interest," said Parker.

This fall, expect to see more oversized versions of these details for a bolder, industrial look. If you're considering giving your kitchen or bathroom a facelift, these features might be a way to modernize your space while adding texture and personality.

3. Arches: A timeless comeback

Arches are not going anywhere this fall. From arched doorways to mirrors and furniture, this trend brings a soft, elegant look.

Inspired by everything from ancient Rome to the Art Deco era, arches add a little flair without being overwhelming. Look out for arched mirrors, which are predicted to be a big hit this season.

"Arches are having a moment. They were everywhere a few seasons ago, starting small with accessories and fabric patterns and continuing all the way up to furniture and interior architecture," said Parker.

"Expect to see more elaborately arched mirrors this season, as well as headboards with ogee or trefoil profiles and chairs with similarly scalloped silhouettes."

Whether you're adding interior architectural arches, revamping your bedroom with a headboard featuring these curved details, or even adding an arched mirror to your living room, you'll be embracing a classic and current trend.

4. Cozy furniture for chilly nights

Sinking into a soft, comfy chair after a long day may be one of life’s little pleasures. This season, oversized, plush furniture is a must.

We’re talking about large, quilted chairs and couches with extra-wide, deep seats that practically beg you to take a nap. 

One standout piece that's been trending all over social media is the oversized corduroy deep seat lounge. You may want to settle in with a warm cup of tea.  

"Many of the chairs and couches we're seeing on Houzz have quilting and channeling that emphasizes their plumpness with extra-wide and deep seats that seemed to invite napping," said Parker.

Houzz has seen an uptick in interest in these cozy pieces, and headboards are getting the same treatment.

"Headboards are also going big and may take on a sculptural aesthetic that extends beyond the sides of beds and past bedside tables," said Parker.

5. Wetroom-esque bathrooms are practical and stylish

Thinking of giving your bathroom a serious upgrade? Wetroom-inspired designs are a big trend this fall, according to Remodelista.

These designs are influenced by fully waterproof wetrooms, where everything—walls, floors, and ceilings—is tiled and designed to handle water without the need for separate shower enclosures.

The “esque” part means it’s more about the look than the full setup, offering a sleek, seamless style that’s modern and easy to clean.

Plus, it gives your bathroom a spa-like vibe without anyone needing to worry about splashes.

6. Colorful cabinetry

This fall is all about bringing bold colors into the kitchen, especially through cabinetry. With no single dominant shade, it's a moody mix of dark blues, greens, and reds.

"Colored cabinets are making a comeback, adding warmth and personality to kitchens," said Pam Hutter, owner of Hutter Architects in Chicago.

For years, white kitchens have dominated design trends and social media, offering a clean and timeless look. But now, homeowners are leaning into more adventurous choices, embracing rich colors that make a statement.

Whether you're aiming for a coastal cottage look with navy blue cabinets or a retro vibe with mint green, these colorful choices give homeowners a chance to express their unique style.

"The key is choosing a cabinet color you love and a wood that provides contrast and fits the home's style," said Hutter.