Decorating with Nature In Mind

Autumn provides a free cornucopia of decorative accents

By Jennifer Rhode

When fall’s brisk air encourages us to shift activities indoors, why not bring the season’s bounty with us to make our homes as cozy, crisp and festive as autumn? Using natural elements as decorative accents facilitates organic, modern décor with minimal fuss. So, let the season inspire your decorating whimsy! Here are a few ideas to get you started.

Tip #1

Collecting pinecones is a fun seasonal treasure hunt that adds a definitive fall cue to your décor. Look for cones of different shapes and sizes, and arrange them in bowls, baskets or plates. Add other elements for interest, like cut branches, pine needles or dried seed heads. You can even paint your cones in gold, silver and metallic hues to add festive flair to your table for the upcoming holiday season.

Tip #2

Floral and berry arrangements in fall hues enliven and enrich a home. Choose colors that reflect the season, like red, pink, yellow, purple, orange and tangerine. Bunch together berry branches for a distinctive color pop, or group together different florals to celebrate the season.

Tip #3

Dried branches, grasses and plants create compelling sculptural silhouettes that you can group into oversize planters or smaller vessels, or even hang on the walls. Be on the lookout for these elements while hiking or cleaning up deadfall in your yard.

Tip #4

Wood adds textured warmth to a home. Wooden bowls are perfect for displaying plants or woodsy fall elements, while wooden art lends organic comfort to a space. Scour secondhand shops for vintage finds with unique shapes and grains.

Tip #5

Seasonal fruits and vegetables are the ultimate fall beacon. Think apples, artichokes, crab apples, gourds, rosehips, squashes and pumpkins. Arrange them in bowls on your dining table and add a few autumn leaves to give fall a full presence in your home.

Visit Jennifer Rhode Design online at jenniferrhode.com.