Autumn's Golden Hues Transform Homes into Cosy Sanctuaries
As the leaves turn and the air cools, autumn brings a spectacular display of colour that inspires interior design. According to Dulux colour and design manager Lauren Treloar, the season's palette—featuring buttery yellow, deep reds, burnt orange, blush pink, and various shades of brown—creates a sense of warmth, depth, and nostalgia in any home.
Soft and Light Tones for Welcoming Spaces
Treloar explains that lighter tones like baked clay and melon beautifully complement deeper, more vibrant shades such as grape and red. This combination fosters a character-filled environment that encourages connection and comfort. In dining areas, warm golden hues make a soft yet striking statement, elevating the space into a welcoming retreat. Layering vintage, handcrafted, and sustainable décor alongside these colours adds texture and interest, enhancing the overall atmosphere.
"The colours create a cocooning atmosphere that encourages connection and comfort, a place where people naturally want to gather and spend time together," Treloar said. This approach mirrors autumn's themes of comfort, reflection, and retreat, making homes feel more inviting during the cooler months.
Moody and Rich Shades for Intimate Bedrooms
For bedrooms, Treloar recommends embracing bolder, deeper shades to establish grounding and intimate spaces. A moody, rich brown sets a cosy foundation, while accents of orange and chocolate enhance the cocooning effect. By layering earthy neutrals with richer tones, the room becomes conversational and full of character, perfect for relaxation and unwinding.
To complement these colours, Treloar suggests incorporating tactile materials like velvet fabrics, faux fur, marble, glass, and mid-tone or darker timbers. These elements add richness, texture, depth, and warmth to the space. Curved or sculptural shapes can soften the depth of colour, preventing the room from feeling heavy and instead keeping it warm and inviting.
This focus on autumn's glorious tones ensures that homes not only reflect the season's beauty but also provide a comforting haven for gatherings and personal time. As 2026 approaches, these trends highlight how colour can transform living spaces into cosy sanctuaries year-round.
