7 Decor Items Designers Are Loving This Fall

Cordless Lamps

Most designers will tell you that layers of lighting are always in style. But what should you do if you don’t have a plug in the perfect spot? Get a cordless lamp. These are becoming increasingly popular and accessible, according to Grey Joyner of Grey Joyner Interiors. “One of my favorite decor pieces lately are cordless lamps,” she says. “Fall is all about warm, cozy, flexible lighting, and these lamps check so many boxes. You can move them from a side table to a bookshelf, from indoors to porch or patio, with zero fuss.”

The designer likes to style these in places you might not normally find a lamp. “Because there are no cords, you can place them in unexpected spots such as inside a dark nook, on a low shelf, or tucked into plants and rearrange as the mood or occasion changes,” she says. “I look for lamps with dimmability and color-temperature control or color-changing capability.”

Berry Branches

Move over, pampas grass. Isabelle Guay, founder of Flow Smart Living + Interiors, tells me berry branches are the hot look for fall. “They fit the beautiful colour trends of dark reds, purples, and browns,” she says. “They can be natural but also artificial depending on taste.”

As for styling these beauties, she likes placing them in a vase as a centerpiece on your dining or coffee table. “Depending on the look you want to achieve, you can use one or two branches for a minimal look or a full bouquet for a greater impact,” she says.

Small Art Frames

Looking to create a small yet chic style moment this fall? Paulina Carcach of Paulina Carcach Studio, notes that small art frames placed on ledges fit the bill perfectly for this. “They really catch my eye. I love how they add a curated, layered feel to a space,” she says. “For styling, a single frame feels more intentional, perfect for a focal point.”

While there are lots of options out there, the designer reveals that wood or painted finishes bring both texture and warmth. “Go for artwork like nature-inspired paintings or photography that reflects the earthy, organic tones.”

Fringe and Other Trims

This fall, Russell Goldman of More Wow Design is into pieces that offer a little something extra, such as a chic trim. “This fall we’re seeing an evolution of glamour that reflects the contrasts and tensions many of us are living with today,” he says. “At More Wow, I’m exploring more daring passementerie—fringe, tassels, braids, and fur-inspired trims—but pairing them with grounded, weighty, and comfortable elements,” he says. 

Statement Bowls

Want to decorate with something you already have? Samantha Arak of Samantha Carey Interiors suggests pedestal bowls and low round enamel bowls, especially those rimmed with a sprig of green or red. “Perfect in the kitchen or dining room table, they are perfect for holding fresh fruit and keeping healthy snacks within sight,” she says. “Fairly easy to find and well priced, the pedestal adds nice height, and when you pair two similar shapes together, in this case round, they offer more visual punch.”

Velvet and Bouclé Upholstery

Susan Petrie of Petrie Interior Designs tells me that velvet and bouclé upholstery are quiet luxury staples she loves mixing with classics like heritage florals and plaid this season. “It’s a really nice balance of being current yet timeless,” she says. “I encourage clients to try merging these looks through upholstery or textiles, which refreshes a room without a complete overhaul. This season I have been trying out statement upholstery pieces in saturated tones like a goldenrod mohair sofa that instantly elevates the space.”

Antique And Collected Pieces

What’s old is new again this season, and antique and collected pieces are at the forefront for Gray Benko and Chelcie Eastman, interior designers and co-founders of Gray Benko Home. “Fall is the perfect time to bring in pieces with history. Incorporate weathered tables, worn leather chairs, and art that looks like it’s been handed down for generations,” says Benko. “These add instant warmth and character, and they work beautifully in every season.”

While there are many ways to style these kinds of pieces, Benko and Eastman recommend layering in a rustic wood side table next to a clean-lined sofa, or letting an antique chest serve as a bar station for holiday gatherings.