As summer fades and we creep into autumn, there’s a back-to-school feeling in the air. No matter how far behind us our schooldays are, there’s still something about the changing of the seasons that has us wanting to get organised, to make a fresh start. Only these days, instead of buying new colouring pencils, we’re organising cupboards, adding new throws and rearranging the pillows, all to create a sanctuary at home, ready for the colder months ahead.

First things first, give everything a big tidy. We talk a lot about spring cleaning, but September is an equally great time to give your space a reset after the long summer months. Get everything out, give it all a clean and think about what is and isn’t working in your space. Is it that you need extra storage in the hallway for all those winter layers that’ll be coming out? Or is your hosting cabinet in need of an overhaul before Christmas entertaining kicks off in a few months’ time? Whatever it is, pick one area and spend an afternoon giving it a refresh – you’ll thank yourself later.

Now the decks have been cleared, it’s time to make them sing a little bit. Try restyling a sideboard, coffee table or a hallway console for a little bit of added impact. Be sure not to over-clutter but mix different objects – both practical and purely pleasing. Try a lamp for a warming autumn glow, a beautifully scented candle that nods to the season and then one of our decorative objet d’art pieces.

To add interest, vary heights. You can do this by just selecting taller or shorter pieces, or by stacking items on books or trays. This is also a good way of making sure pieces don’t seem like they’re ‘floating’ around on their own – three items grouped together on a base of books, or a tray, will feel more anchored and coherent than the same items dotted around individually.

To make sure everything hangs together, consider using different textures but in similar tones. We love to contrast the cool, smoothness of marble against the more rustic qualities of wood or branches – all within a similar palette of natural materials and neutral tones.

Cosy doesn’t have to mean dark. In fact, with nights drawing in, lighter colours and tones can stop everything from feeling too dim and moody. Shades of white, beige and cream are minimal, but still warm and inviting, especially when used for the very softest of furnishings. Swap linen summer layers for chunky cashmere or wool throws and add extra-large and extra-squashy cushions – all the better to curl up into. These shades also really come into their own when catching that glow of fading autumn light, bathing them in a soft golden tone as the afternoon sunset hits.

For another nod to the seasons, try hanging a wreath. Rather than evergreen firs, think rustic branches, pinecones and pussywillow that mirror the changing leaves outside to keep the feel autumnal rather than festive. Hang on the front door or choose a pre-lit style for the hallway to add a lovely welcoming twinkle.

The final way to create a cosy autumn feel? Switch up the fragrances you’re using. Think crisp and comforting, end-of-summer fruits balanced with something a bit deeper to nod to the start of cooler days. The pear captured in our Autumn scent is warmed with musk and rich amber; alternatively Provence combines figs with the twang of sea salt. Light a candle, spritz a room spray or add a couple of drops of oil to an electronic diffuser to instantly change the mood.