Autumn colours: 5 shades to warm up your home

At the end of October, daylight becomes scarce and we all want a cosy nest. No need to repaint everything to change the mood: a few touches of warm colour are enough to transform a room. Here are the 5 autumn shades we love right now, and our ideas for using them.

1. Terracotta and rust: the warmth of the earth

Inspired by fired clay, terracotta instantly brings softness and authenticity. It pairs beautifully with light wood, linen and sandy tones. As ceramics, a pendant light or a planter, it warms up a room without weighing it down.

Eris decorative bowl in Terracotta - MuubsPebble terracotta pebble pendant light M - Ay illuminateTheo S Pot Terracotta - Affari of SwedenRecycled Swirl Terracotta Swirl Lamp - Original Home

2. Ochre and mustard: a ray of sunshine

Ochre and mustard yellow are the light of a late autumn afternoon. On an armchair, a side table or a few cushions, they bring a neutral interior to life. Pair them with soft grey, deep blue or natural wood for a chic look.

Vase S double Ocher - Kristina DamSet of 2 Sonja Cushions Mustard 110x40 cm - Affari of SwedenPalma side table - mustard yellow - Trademark LivingFloating armchair Ocher and oak fabric - Red Edition

3. Caramel and cognac: enveloping elegance

Caramel, honey and cognac tones evoke patinated leather and waxed wood. They create a warm, timeless look, perfect for a living room or reading corner. An amber lamp and a few candles are all you need for a soft atmosphere as night falls.

Curve side table M cognac recycled leather - LIND DNAOrganic Candle M Honey - Original HomeTable lamp Podium amber - HübschPierce lounge chair - Trademark Living

4. Olive and sage green: nature in the living room

Olive and sage green bring a calming, natural touch. They balance the warmer shades and go well with terracotta, cognac and wood. A sofa, a throw or a lantern is enough to bring autumn indoors.

Desert Sage Kindness Vase - Urban Nature CultureWind 3-seater sofa Olive green velvet - Broste CopenhagenLampion Carry-on Recycled Lantern Sage Green - Original HomeBed throw Mori off-white and khaki L 250 cm - House Doctor

5. Burgundy and plum: the deep touch

More intense, burgundy and plum add character and a sophisticated note. Use them in small doses: a vase, a lamp, cushions… or an armchair if you're feeling bold. They work beautifully with beige, powder pink and brass.

Vase Aubergine wind & Fire - Marie MichielssenTable Lamp Nizou Aubergine - Bob VerhelstSet of 2 Florian Cushions Burgundy/Ivory 50x50 cm - Affari of SwedenHamilton Lounge chair, bordeaux mix - House Nordic

Our tips for successful colour combinations

• The 60/30/10 rule: 60% neutral colour (walls, large furniture), 30% secondary colour, 10% bright accents.
• Play with materials: wood, linen, wool, ceramics and velvet enhance the warmth of the colours.
• Mind the lighting: choose bulbs around 2,700 K, a warm white light that flatters autumn tones.
• Keep the palette short: 2 to 3 colours per room are enough for a harmonious result.

Further reading

Read also: How to create a warm atmosphere at home

Read also: Cosy lighting: trendy lamps for a warm home

Discover our full selection in our Decor and Lighting sections to create your autumn interior.