As the temperatures drop and the scent of pumpkin spice fills the air, fall offers the perfect opportunity to refresh your home and invite in the cozy warmth of the season. For Travy Williams, co-owner of NEST Home & Co., fall décor and decorating is more than simply scattering some leaves around, it's about creating a cozy, inviting space that soothes and inspires.
"I've always believed that our homes are meant to be our sanctuary," Travy says. "Fall decorating is about accepting comfort, texture, and color. But most importantly, it's about making your space feel like you again."
With husband Tyler, Travy launched NEST Home & Co. after trading the corporate world for their dream of entrepreneurship. Their shop is now a local favorite for curated home decor, seasonal delights, and design inspiration that reflects both timeless taste and modern appeal.
Travy shares her top five ideas to shift your home from summer to autumn in a way that is fresh, intentional, and effortlessly cozy:
1. Layer in Comfort with Rich Textures
"Fall is all about the snuggly feels," Travy says. One of the easiest ways to bring that sensation home is with texture. Start by trading out lightweight summer fabrics for plush, touchable textures like velvet, or a chunky knit. Throw blankets draped over the sofa, layered pillows on beds or accent chairs, and a plush area rug underfoot are all great ways to cozy up your space instantly.
“Layered textures send a visual cue of warmth and comfort,” she explains. “It’s like telling your guests, or yourself, ‘you’re home, it is okay to relax.’”
Pro Tip: Start with one or two foundation pieces and build from there.
2. Bring in All the Fall Colors
Nothing shouts fall louder than the season's strong color palette. Think burnt sienna, plum, rust, olive green, and warm taupe. "These hues echo the wonderful tones of fall foliage and instantly bring a feeling of tranquility to a space," says Travy.
Rather than a full décor overhaul, she recommends replacing small elements like vases, table runners, or pillow covers. "These colors work well with most neutral furnishings and are a high-impact, low-effort way to make a big difference."
Pro Tip: Start by adding autumn accents to your existing décor. You don't need to change everything, just enough to highlight the seasonal aspects.
3. Establish Ambiance with Purposeful Lighting
With days getting shorter, lighting plays an important role in setting the mood of your house. "Good lighting is everything," says Travy. "It changes the way a room feels, especially in fall."
Instead of overhead lighting only, Travy recommends layering light sources: table lamps with linen shades, dimmable floor lamps, or candles. For golden autumnal light, utilize amber or Edison bulbs.
Pro Tip: Put timer flameless candles in bathrooms, entryways, or bookshelves for a continuously on, but safe element.
4. Bring the Outdoors In, With a Twist
Pumpkins are a fall classic, but there's more to seasonal decorating. "Nature-inspired décor is timeless," Travy says. "Dried florals, branches, pinecones, and wooden accents bring subtle seasonality without screaming holiday."
Try incorporating fake fall florals, like realistic maple leaves or pomegranate branches into the entry way table or mantle displays for a subtle nod to the season.
Pro Tip: Create a fall moment in a single focal area, like your entry console or dining table, to set the tone without saturating the whole house.
5. Put Fall in the Air, Literally
It isn’t really autumn without the aroma of cinnamon, clove, and pumpkin spice. "Scents are such a powerful way to bring the season indoors," Travy says. Use diffusers in the background and mix with candles throughout the home for a layered sensory experience.
Choose candles in amber glass jars, ceramic votives, or leaf-pattern votives for added visual interest. And if open flames aren't an option, flameless candles still offer the warm glow you're seeking.
Pro Tip: Pair your diffuser with a flameless candle for maximum ambiance and peace of mind.
Bonus: Make It Personal and Enjoy It!
"Fall decorating is not perfection or Pinterest-perfect,” Travy says. “It’s making your house your haven."
Therefore, whether you love classic fall colors or prefer more neutral, minimalist tones, follow your instincts. Mix and match, try something new, and most importantly, have fun. “Your home should reflect whatever makes you happy, comfortable, and grounded."
At NEST Home & Co., Travy and her team are always happy to offer a one-on-one design consultation, a styling tip on the spot, or a thoughtful shopping trip to help you find your personal autumn attitude.
"Fall is all about the snuggly feels,"
“It’s making your house your haven."