One of the easiest ways to embrace the season is by changing pillows and throws. Replace lightweight summer fabrics with cozy textures such as velvet, chenille, wool, or chunky knits in warm autumnal shades. A pumpkin-colored accent pillow or a rust-colored throw can instantly make a neutral sofa feel more seasonal without overwhelming the room. Area rugs can also make a significant difference, particularly as temperatures begin to drop. Consider adding a rug with subtle patterns or warm tones to define a seating area and create a softer, more comfortable feeling underfoot. These simple additions can make a room feel noticeably cozier without requiring a major redesign.

Accessories provide another easy opportunity to bring fall indoors. Candles (with real flames or with faux LED flames) add warmth and atmosphere, while a collection of candles in varying heights can create a beautiful glow on a dining or coffee table. I use large LED candles with rechargeable batteries in my fireplace every fall and winter. With a flick of the remote control, I turn on a warm glow every evening. Tableware is another detail that can transform a space for the season. Try incorporating earthy-toned napkins, textured placemats, ceramic serving pieces, or amber and gold accents for an understated fall table. Natural elements such as branches, dried grasses, pinecones, or seasonal flowers can also add color and texture while bringing a bit of the outdoors inside. Bittersweet is a personal favorite, but the berries and husks can get a little untidy if they drop off, as they are prone to do!

The beauty of seasonal decorating is that it doesn’t require starting over. A thoughtfully chosen combination of pillows, throws, rugs, lighting, and accessories can completely change the mood of a room while allowing the larger investment pieces to remain in place. As an interior designer, I encourage clients to choose fall accents that work naturally with their existing color palette rather than simply following every seasonal trend. With a few warm colors and inviting textures layered throughout the home, September can be the beginning of a beautiful transition toward the cozy, comfortable feeling that makes fall such a special time of year.

Beautiful, warm russet tones

Autumn inspiration with paisley and stripes

I love the blend of fall colors offered by a cozy braided rug

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One key feature of coastal interior design is the use of soft, neutral colors such as whites, blues, and sandy beige tones. These colors mimic the coastal landscape and contribute to a light and airy feel within the space. Neutral beige or tan upholstery creates a great base for adding pops of color such as blue, teal, aqua, sage green, peach or coral as accents. Additionally, natural materials like weathered wood, rattan, and sisal are commonly used to enhance the connection to the outdoors. Furniture and decor often showcase simple and clean lines, fostering an open and uncluttered environment.

Decor elements in coastal inspired interiors often include seashells, driftwood, nautical motifs, and maritime accessories. Soft furnishings like pillows, seat cushions, throws and small area rugs may feature patterns inspired by the sea, such as stripes (reminiscent of awnings or even beach towels) or seashell prints. I always recommend finding shell motifs appropriate to the location. For example, in New England coastal areas, designs featuring clam shells, scallops or oyster shells are perfect, while on the Florida Gulf Coast, shell prints with conch, junonia, alphabet cones, cat paws, etc. are just right. Prints and patterns featuring shore birds are smart and fun, too!

The overall goal is to create a space that feels inviting, calm, and reminiscent of a coastal retreat. Coastal interior design brings the serenity and beauty of the shore inside!

Simple yet impactful accessorizing

Beautiful counter top material sets the coastal theme

Playful art for a seaside home in Florida

One of my all time favorite “coastal” fabrics for window treatments and pillows. Fun!

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These treatments are equally versatile when it comes to where they can be installed. Shiplap is a favorite for ceilings, accent walls, bathrooms, mudrooms, and bedrooms, where it adds texture without overwhelming the space. On walls, shiplap can be installed floor to ceiling for a dramatic statement or as a partial wall treatment. A height of 42 to 48 inches works beautifully in casual spaces, while 54 to 60 inches creates a more substantial architectural feature in dining rooms, hallways, and entryways. Board and batten is also commonly installed at these heights, offering a classic, tailored appearance that complements both traditional and modern homes. Wainscoting is typically reserved for more formal settings such as dining rooms, foyers, stairways, and home offices, where its refined details enhance the architecture. While board and batten is generally used on walls rather than ceilings, shiplap is an outstanding ceiling application, adding warmth and visual interest while naturally drawing the eye upward.

Paint selection plays an important role in achieving the finished look. For shiplap ceilings and walls, a matte or eggshell finish creates a soft, relaxed appearance that minimizes glare and highlights the subtle shadow lines between the boards. Crisp white remains the most popular choice for coastal interiors, but warm whites, soft grays, sandy beiges, and muted blue-greens also create beautiful nautical-inspired spaces. Board and batten is often finished in eggshell or satin paint, providing a slightly more durable surface while allowing the trim details to stand out. For a dramatic design statement, consider painting board and batten in a deep navy, charcoal, forest green, or rich greige, paired with lighter walls above. Whether your goal is a bright coastal retreat, a cozy cottage, or a sophisticated traditional home, choosing the right wall treatment and paint finish will add lasting beauty and architectural character that enhances your home’s style for years to come.

Shiplap applied as a tailored fireplace surround

Nice example of board and batten wall trim

Beautiful wainscoting and coffered ceiling for a more formal, dressy look

Shiplap creates fresh nautical theme

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Wood blinds and woven wood shades are popular choices for managing summer sun while adding natural texture and warmth to a room. Adjustable wood blinds make it easy to control the angle and amount of incoming light throughout the day, reducing glare while maintaining outdoor views. Interior shutters create a wonderful, built-in, tailored look while accomplishing the same benefits as wood blinds. Woven wood and matchstick shades gently filter sunlight, softening harsh rays and creating a relaxed, organic look. These natural materials are available in a wide range of neutral colors and textures, and bring visual interest to windows while helping diffuse bright summer light for a more comfortable interior environment.

For homeowners seeking maximum heat and UV protection, solar shades and honeycomb shades offer exceptional performance. Solar shades are specifically engineered to filter sunlight, preserve views, and block a significant amount of heat and UV exposure that can damage fabrics and finishes over time. Honeycomb shades, also known as cellular shades, feature insulating air pockets that help regulate indoor temperatures by reducing heat gain during summer months. Together, these innovative window treatments can improve energy efficiency, enhance comfort, and keep living spaces cooler while still welcoming the beauty of natural daylight.

I work with excellent, local suppliers to create smart and beautiful window treatment plans for clients. From measurements to selections to installation, we work together to provide the very best solutions for light control and privacy. I just wrapped up a residential project in which we used motorized solar shades, faux wood blinds (great for coastal settings), and honeycomb shades. Just in time for summer!

A trio of interior shutters provides tailored privacy and light control

Natural woven shades complement a casual family room

Off-white woven shades for a cool, summery look

Interior shutters provide privacy and soft light control, even for bedrooms

Light filtering, adjustable wood blinds are a great choice

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We dove right in and started working on priorities that needed immediate attention. I quickly established a good relationship with the client and the general contractor. The project has ranged from major decisions such as the kitchen cabinet paint color, kitchen countertop material, primary bath cabinet color, hardwood floor finish, and paint color specifications for the entire house, to small (but important) details such as selecting cabinet knobs. We made changes and improved outdated recessed lighting, and we changed the color scheme and the overall feeling of the house from bright yellows, slate blues and dark reds to a calm, cool and serene neutral color scheme. A huge improvement!

We added window treatments such as cellular shades and solar shades, and we selected furniture and area rugs via numerous emails, zoom chats and calls, working with in-store product expertise from furniture retailers. The furniture will be delivered and the house will be complete soon. I’ll oversee the furniture delivery and placement. I’m excited for my client to arrive and enjoy her new, beautiful, transformed vacation home.

Featured photo compliments of Pottery Barn

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Small changes like adding fresh flowers, greenery, or natural textures such as woven baskets and natural, sisal or jute area rugs can instantly make your home feel fresh and energized for the new season. Table accents can easily be swapped out from bold and colorful fall or winter colors to serene spring and summer colors.

Another easy way to transition your space from winter to spring is by maximizing natural light and decluttering areas that may feel heavy after the colder months. Things that add layered warmth during the winter months (even stacks of books, or candles and candle holders) may look too busy or too ornate when lightening things up.

Focus on adding cheerful seasonal accents without completely redesigning your space. Updated artwork, or a few spring-inspired accessories can make a noticeable difference while keeping your décor balanced and elegant. The key to a successful seasonal transition is simplicity…incorporating light, color, and nature in a way that feels comfortable and welcoming. With just a few thoughtful updates, your home can feel renewed and ready to embrace the warmth and beauty of spring.

Title/feature photo from Kravet Inc.

Spring and summer inspiration

Fun seasonal decor

Sisal – a practical and stylish design change for warm months

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That snowy landscape also serves as beautiful inspiration for interior design, especially when it comes to paint color palettes that capture the soft elegance of winter whites. Paint shades like Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace, White Diamond, and Ice Mist evoke the crisp brightness of freshly fallen snow, while Sherwin-Williams favorites such as Snowbound, Pure White, and Icy Avalanche bring a cooler, serene sophistication to interiors. Whether you prefer a warm snowy white or a silvery icy tone, these shades can create spaces that feel peaceful, airy, and timeless — much like Cape Cod after a winter storm.

The blizzard clean-up was challenging and sometimes overwhelming. We were all reminded of the powerful force of Mother Nature and how priorities change. I was blessed with clients who realized the severity of the situation and who waited for things (like phone, internet and transportation) to come back up to speed and get back to normal. Hopefully, the blizzard was a rare event.

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At its core, interior design is the art and science of creating interior environments that are both visually appealing and purpose-driven. Interior designers take into account how people interact with the spaces they inhabit, as well as the mood, atmosphere, and flow of a room or an entire building. Whether it’s a cozy home, a bustling office, or a luxurious hotel, interior designers work to improve the quality of life and culture within these spaces.

The Role of an Interior Designer

Interior designers are trained professionals who have a deep understanding of design principles, color theory, furniture arrangement, lighting, materials, and spatial awareness. Their job is not only to create beautiful spaces but to ensure those spaces are practical, safe, and comfortable for the people who use them. Designers work on everything from spatial layout planning to selecting fabrics, furniture, flooring, lighting, finishes and art. They often collaborate with architects, contractors, and other specialists to bring a vision to life, making sure that each design element works in harmony.

The Impact of Interior Design

Interior design has a profound impact on our daily lives, even if we don’t always notice it. The design of a space can influence our mood, productivity, and even our health. For example, a well-designed office can foster creativity and focus, while a calm, cozy bedroom can promote relaxation and restful sleep. In public spaces like restaurants or stores, interior design plays a crucial role in creating a memorable experience for visitors.

In short, interior design isn’t just about filling a space with furniture—it’s about creating environments that improve how we live, work, and interact with the world around us. If you’re looking to refresh your own home or office, working with an interior designer offers endless opportunities for creativity and problem-solving. It’s about designing for both aesthetics and function, and most importantly, designing for people. As my homepage invites – “Let’s Create Something Beautiful Together!”

Interior designers assist with kitchen and bath design among many other projects

Building blocks for a successful residential project

Thoughtfully planned details create a beautiful and casual living room

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I frequently assist clients with kitchen and bath renovations, or with new construction projects, advising and guiding on important choices like tile and flooring, counter tops, cabinet styles and finishes, cabinet hardware, lighting, paint colors or wallpaper selections. I supervise on projects for second homes where clients may not be on site, or on full time homes where the clients are present, in either case providing project oversight, coordination with contractors and sub-contractors, and help with overall design decisions and materials selections.

Smart planning and preparation will lead to a successful and satisfying kitchen renovation.

A recent tailored and classic kitchen design

A simple and elegant kitchen comes to fruition after careful planning

Compact, stylish open kitchen features a beautiful and useful island

Custom kitchen with fun gray-blue backsplash tile and quartz counter tops

Details and selections for counter tops and hardware are key

The post Kitchen Renovation Tips appeared first on Anne Cummins Interior Design.

I’m also looking forward to continued work on some great projects in the New Year, plus beginning a few that are in the very early stages. Developing some interesting and fun blog topics, too! Cheers!

Reflecting the colors and wonder of the season

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Fabrics play an equally important role in creating a cozy atmosphere. Think plush wool throws, chunky knits, and velvety cushions in layered tones of rust, caramel, and chestnut. Upholstered furniture in brushed cotton or suede instantly softens a space, while linen curtains in muted clay or taupe filter the autumn light beautifully. Mixing textures—like pairing a nubby woven blanket with smooth leather or a silky pillow—adds dimension and a tactile sense of comfort that draws you in.

Together, these colors and fabrics transform a room into a November retreat—a place to unwind, reflect, and recharge. Whether you’re curling up with a book or hosting an intimate dinner, warm russets, deep browns, and earthy terra cottas create a palette that feels both grounded and luxurious. Add a few candlelit accents or the gentle glow of a lamp, and the result is a home that radiates cozy sophistication all season long.

Terra cotta tile works year round but seems especially warm in the cooler seasons

Textured russet and terra cotta fabrics add warmth and comfort

Bold color brings energy to indoor color schemes

This area rug is timeless but plays up welcoming warmth for fall

Sophisticated yet cozy

Tile photo courtesy Of Tile Club

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In living rooms or dens, Silhouette transforms walls into a dramatic canvas, especially when paired with plush textures—think velvet sofas, aged leather chairs, or wool throws. When used on cabinetry or built-ins, it brings a refined depth that feels both contemporary and classic. To avoid making a space feel too enclosed, balance Silhouette with lighter elements such as creamy whites, soft grays, or warm metallics like brass or aged gold. Natural light will play beautifully against its dimensional tones, subtly shifting throughout the day.

For those not ready to commit to full walls, Silhouette shines in smaller applications—on interior doors, statement furniture, or as an accent wall in a powder room or bedroom. Paired with organic materials like wood, stone, or linen, it creates a harmonious and inviting environment. This color is perfect for homeowners and designers looking to craft interiors with character, mood, and a sense of elevated comfort.

All images courtesy of Benjamin Moore Paints. Thank you!

Nice combination with Silhouette and neutral accent colors

Beautiful color combinations seem especially fitting for the coming fall and winter seasons

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