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Fall is in full swing and, if you’re anything like us, you’re constantly searching for ways to decorate and upgrade your home. For those with smaller spaces struggling to find the perfect décor for the cooler months, we have you covered. We spoke with Kim A. Mitchell, the founder and principal designer at KAM Design, about the joys of decorating a smaller space. The Larchmont-based business has been voted our Best of Westchester Readers’ Pick for Best Interior Designer for five years running.
When designing smaller spaces, Mitchell notes, “I get excited about the opportunity for drama! Small spaces allow for pushing the design elements in a way that a larger space does not.” This season, allow your mind to go big and explore all of the design opportunities in your home, no matter the size of your space. Below, we highlight three areas in your home that could use a décor refresh or upgrade by sharing tips and potential items.
“Try a design element that you love and maybe pushes you out of your comfort zone,” Mitchell encourages. One way to add a nice touch into any room is to incorporate wallpaper with a bold texture.
It’s time to transition your living space into the cozy atmosphere you’ve been craving. While the temperature is still high for the season, throw these white birch logs into your fireplace for a nice design touch. They’re easy to remove once the cooler season commences and, when that time comes, grab this brass fireplace screen to continue with the fireplace décor. If you do not have a working fireplace, Mitchell suggests placing faux candles in the fireplace to give off a similar effect.
Plus, when buying flowers for your home, think of adding more dried elements like branches, pinecones, and berries to infuse a seasonal touch into any room of your house.
Living Room
For many of us, our living rooms are the main space in the home. They often serve as multipurpose spaces that will see holiday parties, movie nights, and everything in between this season. “Every living room deserves some beautiful throws” says Mitchell, who recommends a Johanna Howard throw. Introducing a new throw to the living room can make a big difference!
Additionally, make sure to change light and fresh-scented candles to scents that are cozy. It’s always good to have plenty of seasonal candles on hand throughout the colder months. Mitchell recommends her all-time favorite scent, Votivo Red Current. “At one point I think I may have had an addiction to these!” she admits.
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Kitchen
It can be difficult to find kitchen-friendly pieces to decorate with for fall, especially items that are both aesthetically pleasing and practical. Check out these festive tile hand-painted stoneware salt and pepper shakers to add a functional, seasonal touch to your kitchen.
“Over the years I have gathered many pine cones — including huge ones from California, where my siblings live — and I love to put them all in a clear Simon Pearce glass bowl on the kitchen island with just a few cuts of any evergreen you have from your yard,” adds Mitchell.
In addition to the pine cones, Mitchell adds a touch of holly from her front bush, integrating a timeless display of nature that will last throughout the winter. Don’t be afraid to cut branches off your own trees and place them in a planter to add a nice touch to your home.
“I love the variety of sizes for small areas and the organic irregular edge that mimics nature’s imperfection,” notes Mitchell.
Foyer
There’s nothing like a first impression. Allow your home to welcome guests this fall by decorating with touches that go a long way.
“The foyer is a great way to embrace a new season. [Try] floor planters with tall branches or add a cozy area rug,” says Mitchell.
Opt for a piece like this rustic ceramic vase, then add these tall decorative branches for a sleek look. If you want to go bold with your area rug, check out this green, hand-tufted wool-viscose blend rug. Those opting for a more reserved color palate should go for this hand-tufted Elika rug.
Related: 14 Cozy Restaurants for Fireside Dining in Westchester