Transitioning Our Homes for the Fall

A change in seasons is the perfect time for an interior refresh. The switch from summer to fall is always a favourite because it brings beautiful fall colours and cozy textiles to go along with the crisp nights ahead.

But fall also brings with it shorter days, cooler temperatures, and busier schedules. With back to school most likely including distance learning and remote work continuing, our homes may need some adjustments to make the transition go smoothly this year. Here are a few tips to help you get your home and family ready for a productive fall season.

Create Space for Learning

When the stay-at-home orders first came back in March, we all had to adapt quickly. Our temporary set-ups were OK, because we didn’t expect to still be home in the fall. But now that the future may include more distance learning, it’s time to create a dedicated space for kids to home school.

A familiar workspace that is optimized for learning can have a huge impact on the success and enjoyment of at-home education. But keep in mind, children of different ages will have different needs when it comes to their learning space. Try to place small children’s desks close to your own so you can keep an eye on them without having to get up from your work. Teens on the other hand, often require a quiet space away from screens and distractions to help them focus on their studies.  

A Functional Home Office

Just as children require a space that caters to learning, we also need a place that allows us to be productive in our jobs. When you work at home, it’s easy to let the lines between personal and professional duties blur.

Try to carve out a sanctuary space where you can leave work behind at the end of the day, but still keep your office set up for the next day. Consider office ergonomics to help alleviate any discomfort from sitting for long periods of time.

Keep the Dark at Bay

Shorter days in the fall and winter can be quite tough on both our body and mind. A lack of sunlight can result in lower vitamin D and serotonin levels which can lead to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). With symptoms such as low energy, trouble sleeping, and changes in weight and appetite, SAD can make the winter months even more difficult.

To help combat the negative effects of winter, try to increase the amount of natural light in your home. Remove heavy window coverings in favour of sheer options that let in more light. If natural light isn’t an option, try adding more light sources to help brighten your home. Consider new smart lighting technology that can recreate our body’s natural rhythm to keep us alert during the day and help us wind down in the evening to promote sleep.

Homes That Encourage Movement

It’s a fact that exercise improves both our physical and mental health. With colder weather upon us, it’s important to consider how we will stay healthy and active. No matter what size home you live in, space for movement should be a priority.

Now is a great time to think about re-configuring your space to convert lesser used areas into a spot for exercise and well-being. Maybe you have a formal dining room or garage that doesn’t get much use. Transforming that space into a home gym or a quiet room for meditation and yoga can offer significant health benefits.

In smaller homes, look for ways to adapt your current space to allow for more than one activity. Options such as furniture that rolls out of the way to make room for a yoga mat, or exercise equipment that folds up for easy storage, can create room for exercise in even the smallest homes.

Breathe Easier

Open windows and fresh air are just one of the many health benefits we experience when the weather is warm. As temperatures drop and we close things up for a cooler season, it’s important to consider the air quality in our homes.  

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor pollutants are on the rise as a result of the many synthetic materials that are so common in our homes today. To help combat this problem, take the time to research products before you bring them into your home. By choosing natural materials over synthetic in things like floor coverings, sofa upholstery and drapery, we can significantly improve the air quality in our homes.

As the season changes, so do our needs at home. And this fall will likely be significantly different than those we have experienced in the past. By preparing now, you can help make the transition as smooth as possible for both you and your family!

If you’re ready to transition your home for the fall, contact me today!