Seasonal Transformations: 5 Essential Decorating Updates for Every Change of Season

Sterling & Maple Team
Aug 4, 2025
3 min read

As the seasons shift, our homes can shift too. Transforming your living space to reflect the changing weather not only beautifies your surroundings but also lifts your spirit. Here are five essential decorating updates you can make with each season's transition, ensuring your home feels inviting all year round.

1. Revamp Your Color Palette

Refreshing your color scheme is one of the easiest ways to reflect seasonal changes. In spring and summer, think lighter and vibrant shades like yellows, greens, and light blues. For example, add a bright yellow throw pillow or switch to light blue tableware. In contrast, for autumn and winter, warm tones like oranges, browns, and deep reds can create a cozy atmosphere; consider using a rust-colored blanket on your couch or deep red curtains.

Research suggests that colors can influence mood significantly, with warmer hues promoting feelings of warmth and comfort.

2. Seasonal Aromas

Engaging the sense of smell can greatly enhance your home environment. Incorporate seasonal scented candles or essential oils to create a warm atmosphere. For instance, citrus scents like lemon or lime can be refreshing in summer, while cinnamon and pine scents evoke a cozy winter vibe. Additionally, decorative bowls of seasonal potpourri, such as dried oranges and cloves in winter or lavender and rosemary in summer, can boost both the aesthetic appeal and fragrance of your home.

3. Nature-Inspired Décor

Bringing natural elements indoors can dramatically alter the ambiance of your home. In the spring, consider using fresh flowers like tulips and daffodils, which can instantly brighten your space. Summer can feature beach-themed decor, like seashells collected from your local shore or driftwood accents. As autumn arrives, consider a centerpiece of pumpkins and corn stalks, and during winter, incorporate evergreen branches or holly. Using a single bloom vase or a rustic basket filled with seasonal items can create a sophisticated focal point that changes with the seasons.

4. Change Textiles

The textiles in your home enhance its warmth and comfort. Lightweight linen and cotton are ideal for summer, while heavier wool and flannel are perfect for the colder months. Swap out your curtains, table runners, and bed linens seasonally. For example, replace light summer curtains with deeper, warmer tones in autumn. Layering textiles, such as adding a cozy throw over your couch, can also increase comfort while enriching your home’s visual appeal.

5. Restyle Vignettes

As the seasons shift, so should the small, styled moments throughout your home—those curated corners that give personality to your space. Think of entry tables, coffee tables, mantels, open shelving, or nightstands. These spots are perfect for easy, impactful refreshes. Swap in seasonal objects like hand-thrown ceramics in warm tones for fall, light-toned glass or fresh blooms for spring, or a sculptural candle and a small evergreen branch for winter.

Remember Josh’s go-to tip: styling in threes. Grouping objects in odd numbers adds balance and visual interest. Vary the height, shape, and texture of each object to create a look that feels collected, not cluttered.

Final Thoughts

Embracing seasonal changes through decorating not only beautifies your home but also refreshes your atmosphere. By revamping your color palette, enriching your space with seasonal aromas, incorporating nature-inspired decor, changing textiles, and adjusting your lighting, you can create an inviting environment that mirrors the beauty of each season. Start implementing these updates today and enjoy the transformation of your home with every new season!