Now that the unofficial end of summer is right around the corner, I’m starting to think about ways to ease the transition from one season to the next in my living room and terrace. I asked Susan Feldman, one of the founders of One Kings Lane, an online home furnishings resource, for ideas on keeping spaces comfy and beautiful as the days begin to shorten and cool off. Here are her tips:
1. Toss lightweight throws on chairs. “These are a must this time of year—my favorites are ultra-versatile Turkish textiles,” says Susan. “I tend to keep them draped on the end of my bed and folded over the arm of my chairs to cover up with while reading a good book or for my guests to use as wraps on a chilly evening.
2. Add arrangements that last. “As summer winds down, I love to switch from fresh flowers to more hearty things like potted topiaries,” Susan says. “Their sculptural shapes look especially striking on my mantel or entryway table.”
3. Switch out rugs. “During the summer, I like to use a lightweight cotton dhurrie (which is easy to roll and store) in my living room, but when the temperature drops I switch back to my Oriental rug,” Susan explains. “A wool rug not only adds texture, but warm hues really cozy up a space.”
4. Add a warm glow with lanterns. “When it’s not quite cold enough for a fire but we still want some evening glow, I bring the large lanterns that I use outdoors during the summer inside to flank my fireplace,” she says.
To find more great decorating tips from designers as well as beautiful home furnishings at great prices that can ease the shift from one season to the next, visit the One Kings Lane Web site.
