The return of The Great British Bake Off means autumn is on its way (and you’re already treating friends, family and colleagues to your attempts at channelling Mary Berry). It also means it’s a great time to transform your kitchen into a cosy haven, the perfect place to spend your days rustling up comforting recipes as the dark nights draw in.

Seasonal hues

For colour inspiration this autumn, look to the trees as their leaves change colour and begin to fall to the ground - think berry reds, rustic oranges, golden yellows, moss greens, bronzy browns and plum purples. Pattern wise, traditional check, plaid and tartan all go hand in hand with the cooler months, and for materials and textures, wood, wicker and wool work well – anything that brings to mind a stroll in a forest on a crisp autumn morning. 

Cosy comforts

You’ll naturally spend more time in the kitchen and less in the garden as cooler temperatures set in, so you’ll need to make sure the engine room of your home is suitably toasty. Keep the heat in by hanging thick lined curtains in autumnal tones. As a real treat for autumn and winter, you might consider installing a log burner which will add an extra touch of comfort and help you save on the cost of central heating. It will look great too. 

Autumn accessories

It’s the important little touches that bring a seasonal look together, while there’s no need to go overboard (it’s not Christmas just yet) you can give subtle nods to the time of year. Try creating a centre piece for tables or windowsills; make use of pumpkins during Halloween, collect fallen leaves from the garden and display in a glass jar, or arrange pine cones, conkers and autumn berries in a wicker basket for a truly rustic look. Warm up your dining table with a runner in a seasonal colour, and if you’ve got wood or tile flooring (but not the luxury of underfloor heating), treat your feet to a thick piled rug. 

A warm glow

There’s nothing like the glow from the oven as a hearty casserole or a fresh fruit crumble bubbles away inside – complement this with some cosy lighting. Lanterns are perfect for brightening up a dark, cold evening, with the flicker of candlelight creating a tranquil atmosphere. Collect twigs or branches while out on a woodland walk and entwine with string lights for a stylish seasonal look. Don’t forget the clocks go back on October 30, too.  

What are your top tips for adding autumnal touches to your abode? Share with us in the comments.