The Design Edit: How to Prepare Your Home for Fall Living

How to Prepare Your Home for Fall Living

The end of summer is the golden hour of the season. The last get-togethers are scheduled. Time slows even more as we appreciate what coastal summers bring — warm sunsets, sandy feet, salty hair and spicy barbeques, to name a few.

If you are like me, my home is a bit messy and askew during this time of the year because we don't spend as much time inside. Outside takes center stage, so sand and towels on the floor linger a bit longer than usual.

But for me, fall feels different. Back to school, end of summer vacations and brisk air recharges our brains and makes us move a bit faster. This is also a time for me when my home shifts. We spend more time inside.

Warmth is the theme vs air-conditioned comfort. The outdoor lighting changes and becomes more muted, which means our indoor colors can change as well, so I love to focus on a fall luxe up (the opposite of spring cleaning). Here are some of my favorite ideas.

• Blankets and throws: These are a must and can instantly change a bedroom or living room. Shift from cotton to cashmere blends. Many companies also make great washable lines that work perfectly for children and pets.
• Accent pillows: This is an instant refresh. Again, cotton out and luxury fabrics in. Rich coastal patterns using velvet and cashmere can transition your coastal retreat to colder months and give that “wow” for your entertaining areas.
• Large centerpieces with faux florals: The quality of faux florals and greenery has improved dramatically and now look and feel real. A beautiful vase with a stunning arrangement can immediately set the tone in your foyer, on your dining table or in covered areas.
• Candles: I like to put away my summer candles and transition to warmer scents. Fall is a great season to pick citrus notes, vetiver or woody notes without going full holiday.
• Lighting: Remember the sun will be setting earlier, so lighting and ambiance matter. We use lamps more often, and portable lighting provides a great way to create moods anywhere.
• Entertaining: I put my acrylic away in the fall and bring out beautiful, full glasses and wood pieces. Texture when you entertain matters, and you can use those pieces inside that may not be best around the pool or on the beach.

We would love to help you make this transition at Black Tie Beach, especially at our new location — Black Tie Beach North (our Red Mill location is Black Tie Beach South).

But for now, let's have our last few sunset cocktails and toast to a wonderful Summer of 2026. We look forward to seeing you in September.