Designing the perfect autumnal space with insight from top interior designers

September 12, 2023

Plush warm fabrics, brassy tones, and low lighting can all help to achieve an inviting and comfortable home as longer evenings draw in. Here, some of our favourite interior designers discuss their autumnal inspirations ahead of appearing at the PTSB Ideal Home Show.

Anna Komar of Interio stylists looks for inspiration in nature, whilst also utilising spaces in modern and creative ways: “Autumn is the time of hot cocoa, orange leaves on the trees mixed with bright rays of sun – golden autumn, and since the whole world of design and architecture reflects nature, I would draw inspiration from there. Warm brown shades, pastel tones on walls, pumpkin-orange and yellow shades of textile decor, brass fittings on door and furniture handles, lighting with a golden hue. And of course, the fireplace, all will make your autumn unforgettable in your home.”

“First is the comfort of the home, not only visual but tactile. Warmth can be achieved by reducing heat loss, proper thermal insulation, underfloor heating under the tiles and the right radiators. And of course, the surface: natural wood flooring and other wooden elements are tactile. Harder surfaces in the autumn interior should also reflect visual and tactile warmth. For natural marble, I would advise choosing a warm shade, not glossy, or tiles with a matte shade of warm stone.”

Visit Interio stylists at stand no. Q85 all weekend at the PTSB Ideal Home Show.

New trends for soft furnishings this Autumn

Lou Petersen, Head of Design Innovation at DFS, shares the new trending elements coming through this season: “At DFS, we know that our homes are our retreats – a corner of the world that’s just for us, and that we can make truly our own. Each season, we combine our 50 years of market-leading design expertise with our deep understanding of our customers and the latest trends, to create high quality, stylish and affordable pieces to help our customers bring their personality and sense of style to life, whatever their thing might be.

This autumn, curves remain popular, with soft textures like bouclé, warm sand-toned natural colours and washed wood bringing a sense of cosiness to a space, for a cocooning feel. We’re also seeing a real interest in the idea of quiet luxury – a focus on carefully curated pieces that offer timeless appeal, with attention to detail, luxurious fabrics and muted, sophisticated hues like chestnut and sage. Finally, as multi-generational living becomes the norm, the need for our homes to multitask continues to grow. Double duty furniture that earns its space is key, as are occasional pieces that offer style, storage and flexibility, without scrimping on style!”

Visit DFS at stand no. M38 all weekend at the PTSB Ideal Home Show – and don’t miss out on the designer-curated showrooms on display at the DFS Interiors Inspiration Centre or the interactive and informative expert talks being hosted by Jo Linehan at the DFS Interiors Theatre!

As homeowners become more adept at planning and designing their own spaces, some may ask why an interior designer is needed at all. Jackie Carton at Carton Interiors, a member of The Interiors Association, makes the case for working with a professional:

“When it comes to renovations or redecorating your home, the services of a professional interior designer often stand out as a wise investment. Interior design involves so much more than creating aesthetically pleasing spaces. A designer should make your home function perfectly as well as feeling ‘just right’ for you.

Some of the reasons why homeowners should engage a professional interior designer include:

⦁ Expertise and creativity: Interior designers are trained professionals with a keen eye for detail, colour theory, and spatial planning. They can transform your home into a visually appealing space, seamlessly blending form and function. Their innovative ideas can breathe life into your vision while avoiding costly mistakes.

⦁ Time and cost efficiency: Design projects can be time-consuming and costly without proper guidance. Interior designers have access to a wide network of suppliers and can help you make informed decisions, potentially saving you money. Moreover, many designers manage all aspects of the project, liaising with tradespeople and ensuring it stays on schedule.

⦁ Personalised solutions: Professional designers work closely with clients to understand their preferences, needs, and lifestyles. This enables them to create personalised spaces that reflect the client’s personality and taste. Your home should reflect you!

⦁ Access to resources: Interior designers often have access to exclusive resources, furniture, and materials that may not be available to the general public. This allows for a more unique and tailored design. They work with craftspeople like joiners and furniture makers to create beautifully bespoke pieces where needed.

⦁ Stress reduction: By taking on the responsibility of design and project management, interior designers alleviate stress for their clients. They handle all the logistics, ensuring a smooth and worry-free process.”

Visit The Interiors Association at stand no. M30 all weekend at the PTSB Ideal Home Show.

Finding the perfect interior designer couldn’t be easier at the PTSB Ideal Home Show this October. Along with the designers above, you will find interior designers such as Wrights Interiors (stand no. L20), Cohen & Co Interiors (stand no. M38) and many more ready to help you create your ideal home.

Be sure to visit the Dulux Heritage Interior Design Hub – one of the many great features in-show! Interior Designers will showcase gorgeous rooms in autumnal colour palettes from the Dulux Heritage paint range.

The PTSB Ideal Home Show takes place from 20th to 22nd October, RDS Dublin.

Back to blog