Add Burgundy Fall Accents to Your Home Decor!

As the leaves outside begin their spectacular transformation, painting landscapes in fiery hues, there’s an undeniable shift in the air. We instinctively crave warmth, comfort, and a touch of seasonal magic within our homes. This autumn, why not invite the rich, sophisticated embrace of burgundy into your living space? Learning how to add a burgundy fall accent to your interior decor can transform your home into a cozy, inviting sanctuary that perfectly captures the spirit of the season.

Burgundy isn’t just a color; it’s a feeling. It evokes images of fine wine, crackling fireplaces, and luxurious fabrics. It’s deep, warm, and wonderfully versatile, making it an ideal choice for transitioning your decor from the brighter tones of summer to the inviting depths of fall and winter. Far from being overwhelming, burgundy, when used thoughtfully, adds a touch of drama, elegance, and incredible coziness. Let’s explore how you can infuse this captivating hue into every corner of your home, creating a space that feels both stylish and deeply comforting.

The Allure of Burgundy: Why It’s Your Go-To Fall Shade

There’s a reason burgundy continually resurfaces as a beloved fall color. It’s more than just a shade of red; it’s a complex, deep, and sophisticated hue that perfectly encapsulates the richness of autumn. Think of the deep reds of changing maple leaves, the color of a robust glass of merlot, or the luxurious velvet of a vintage armchair. Burgundy carries an inherent sense of maturity and grounded elegance.

Psychologically, colors like burgundy are known to evoke feelings of warmth, luxury, ambition, and power. For home decor, this translates into a space that feels inviting, stable, and deeply comforting. Unlike a bright, energetic red that might feel too stimulating, burgundy offers a more subdued intensity, providing a sense of gravitas and intimacy. It works beautifully to create a focal point, add depth, or simply infuse a room with a welcoming, autumnal glow. It’s the perfect color to signal a shift in seasons, beckoning you to curl up indoors with a good book and a warm drink.

Crafting Your Burgundy Palette: Finding the Perfect Hue

Before diving in, it’s worth noting that “burgundy” isn’t a single, monolithic color. It encompasses a spectrum of deep, reddish-purple tones. Some might lean more towards plum, others towards a brownish-red, and some closer to a rich maroon. The key is to find the shade that resonates with your personal style and complements your existing decor.

Consider your home’s natural light and current color scheme. In a brightly lit room, a deeper, almost black-cherry burgundy can look stunning, offering a dramatic contrast without feeling too heavy. In a room with less natural light, a slightly brighter burgundy, perhaps with more visible red undertones, can prevent the space from feeling too dark while still providing that coveted autumnal depth.

Think about the mood you want to create. Do you want something deeply luxurious? Opt for burgundies with a velvety sheen. Prefer something more rustic or organic? Look for burgundies with earthy, matte finishes. Pairing your chosen burgundy with complementary colors is also crucial for a cohesive look. Neutrals like cream, beige, taupe, and grey are natural partners, allowing burgundy to truly pop. Metallics like gold and brass add a touch of glamour, while deeper greens and navies can create a sophisticated, jewel-toned palette. You can explore the psychology of colors in interior design to further understand how different hues affect a room’s mood.

Key Areas to Introduce Burgundy: A Room-by-Room Guide

Ready to get started? Let’s explore specific ways to infuse this beautiful shade into different areas of your home. Remember, a little goes a long way, especially when starting out.

Textiles: The Easiest Entry Point

Textiles are by far the simplest and most effective way to introduce a seasonal color like burgundy. They are versatile, relatively inexpensive, and easy to swap out when the seasons change again.

• Throws and Blankets: Drape a chunky knit burgundy throw over your sofa or armchair. Not only does it add a pop of color, but it also screams “cozy.” Imagine curling up with it on a chilly evening.
• Cushions and Pillows: Replace some of your existing throw pillows with burgundy ones. Mix textures – velvet, chenille, or even faux fur – for added visual interest. Combine solid burgundy pillows with patterned ones that feature burgundy elements.
• Rugs: A burgundy rug can anchor a room, especially in an open-plan living area. It instantly warms up a space and defines zones. A plush wool rug or a more understated natural fiber rug with burgundy accents can make a huge impact. Remember, the rug often sets the tone for your entire room’s design, as discussed in design from the ground up: why your rug sets the tone for your entire room.
• Curtains or Drapes: If you’re feeling bold, burgundy curtains can create a luxurious, dramatic statement. They add an incredible sense of warmth and privacy, especially in a living room or bedroom. Sheer burgundy panels can filter light beautifully, while heavier drapes offer a more opulent feel.

Wall Decor: Bold Statements and Subtle Touches

Walls offer a canvas for bigger statements.

• Accent Wall: Consider painting one wall in a rich burgundy. This creates an instant focal point and adds incredible depth to a room. It works particularly well in dining rooms, bedrooms, or an entryway.
• Art and Prints: Incorporate burgundy through framed artwork. Look for paintings or prints that feature the color, or simply choose frames in a deep, complementary wood tone to enhance existing pieces.
• Wallpaper: A wallpaper with a subtle burgundy pattern or texture can add sophistication without overwhelming the room. Think damask patterns for a classic look or geometric designs for a more modern twist.

Furniture: Investment Pieces and Easy Updates

Introducing burgundy through furniture can range from a significant investment to a simple update.

• Statement Sofa or Armchair: A burgundy velvet sofa or a leather armchair is a timeless piece that will undoubtedly be the star of your living space. This is a commitment, but one that pays off in enduring style and comfort.
• Dining Chairs: Reupholstering dining chair seats in a durable burgundy fabric is a great way to update your dining area. It’s less commitment than a full sofa but still makes a powerful statement.
• Painted Furniture: A small wooden chest, a side table, or even a bookshelf can be painted burgundy for a custom, eye-catching piece. Distressing the paint can add a rustic, antique feel. If you’re working with existing wood pieces, knowing how to cover scratches on wood veneer can be useful before a paint project.

Accessories: Small Details, Big Impact

Decorative accessories are the low-commitment, high-impact heroes of seasonal decorating.

• Vases and Planters: Fill a burgundy vase with fresh fall flowers or dried arrangements. Alternatively, place a neutral vase in a burgundy planter.
• Candles and Lanterns: Burgundy candles, especially scented ones that evoke fall (think cinnamon, apple, pumpkin spice), add both color and aroma. Decorative lanterns with burgundy accents can create a warm, inviting glow.
• Books and Decorative Objects: Arrange books with burgundy spines on shelves. Incorporate small decorative objects like ceramic bowls, trays, or figurines in varying shades of burgundy.
• Table Linens: For the dining area, a burgundy tablecloth, placemats, or napkins can instantly elevate a fall tablescape.

Natural Elements: Bringing the Outdoors In

Fall is all about nature’s bounty, and burgundy thrives in this context.

• Floral Arrangements: Incorporate deep red and burgundy flowers like dahlias, chrysanthemums, or classic roses into your arrangements. Mix them with greenery and other autumnal blooms.
• Dried Foliage and Branches: Collect branches with changing leaves, or buy preserved burgundy eucalyptus and other dried foliage. Place them in tall vases for a striking, organic accent.
• Berries and Fruit: Decorative bowls filled with pomegranates, cranberries, or deep red apples can bring natural burgundy tones to your kitchen or dining table.

Lighting: Enhancing the Ambiance

Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood, and burgundy can help amplify that.

• Lampshades: Swap out a neutral lampshade for one in a rich burgundy fabric. The filtered light will cast a warm, inviting glow.
• Mood Lighting: Use dimmable lights and warm-toned bulbs to enhance the cozy feel that burgundy already brings. String lights with a warm glow can also add a magical touch.

Balancing Burgundy: Creating Harmony, Not Overwhelm

The key to successful decorating with a strong color like burgundy is balance. You don’t want your home to feel like a giant wine barrel!

• Neutral Foundation: Burgundy truly shines when paired with a strong neutral base. Whites, creams, grays, and even soft beiges allow the burgundy to pop without dominating the space. These neutrals act as breathing room for the eye.
• Metallic Accents: Gold, brass, and even copper are fantastic companions for burgundy. They add sparkle and luxury, elevating the overall aesthetic. Think gold picture frames, brass lamps, or copper decorative bowls. Silver can also work for a cooler, more modern look.
• Wood Tones: Rich, warm wood tones beautifully complement burgundy. Darker woods like mahogany or walnut create a sophisticated, traditional feel, while lighter woods can provide a lovely contrast and keep the space from feeling too heavy.
• Complementary Colors: Introduce other fall colors in smaller doses. Deep forest greens, burnt oranges, golden yellows, or even a touch of navy can create a sophisticated, multi-layered palette. Just be mindful not to introduce too many strong colors at once, which can lead to a chaotic feel. The goal is to create a cohesive look; for more tips on this, refer to creating a cohesive look: tips for harmonizing interior spaces.

Burgundy Across Design Styles

One of burgundy’s greatest strengths is its versatility. It can adapt to almost any interior design style.

• Traditional: Burgundy is a natural fit for traditional decor. Think velvet armchairs, damask patterns, heavy drapes, and rich mahogany furniture. It exudes classic elegance and timeless luxury.
• Modern/Contemporary: For a modern aesthetic, use burgundy in clean lines and minimalist forms. A single burgundy accent wall, geometric patterned cushions, or a sleek, solid burgundy sofa can make a sophisticated statement without being fussy. Pair it with concrete, glass, and metals for a striking contrast.
• Rustic/Farmhouse: In a rustic setting, burgundy can be introduced through flannel throws, distressed wooden signs, earthenware pottery, or a vintage rug. It adds warmth and a touch of heritage, complementing natural wood and raw textures beautifully.
• Bohemian: Burgundy fits perfectly into a bohemian vibe, especially when mixed with other rich jewel tones, eclectic patterns, and natural materials. Think Moroccan poufs, patterned textiles, and a mix of vintage finds.
• Eclectic: This is where burgundy can truly shine. Mix and match different textures, patterns, and eras with burgundy as a unifying, grounding color.

DIY Burgundy Accents: Get Creative!

You don’t need a huge budget to introduce burgundy. A little DIY magic can go a long way.

• Painted Vases or Pots: Grab some inexpensive clear glass vases or ceramic pots and give them a coat of burgundy spray paint or chalk paint. You can even try a distressed look for added charm.
• Fabric Dyeing: Old white or cream cushion covers, plain tablecloths, or even a sheer curtain panel can be transformed with fabric dye. This allows you to achieve the exact shade of burgundy you desire.
• Fall Garlands: Collect fallen leaves (or buy faux ones) and paint some in burgundy, then string them together with gold or copper beads for a unique fall garland to drape over a mantel or doorway.
• Custom Artwork: Purchase a plain canvas and experiment with burgundy, gold, and cream acrylic paints to create your own abstract art piece that perfectly matches your decor.

Maintenance and Care for Your Burgundy Pieces

To keep your burgundy accents looking their best, a little care goes a long way.

• Fabric Care: For textiles like throws and cushion covers, always check the care labels. Many can be machine washed on a gentle cycle, but velvet or more delicate fabrics might require dry cleaning or spot treatment.
• Furniture Protection: If you’ve invested in a burgundy sofa or armchair, consider using fabric protectors to guard against spills. Regular vacuuming with an upholstery attachment will keep dust and debris at bay.
• Sun Exposure: Like many deep colors, burgundy can fade over time with direct, prolonged sun exposure. Position furniture and textiles away from direct sunlight, or use UV-filtering window treatments to protect them.
• Cleaning Painted Items: For painted DIY pieces, a soft, damp cloth is usually sufficient for cleaning. Avoid harsh chemicals that could strip the paint.

Mistakes to Avoid When Decorating with Burgundy

While burgundy is beautiful, it’s a strong color, and a few common pitfalls can make or break your design.

• Overdoing It: The biggest mistake is using too much burgundy. It’s an accent color, meant to be sprinkled throughout the room, not to dominate every surface. Start small and add more if the space can handle it.
• Ignoring Undertones: Pay attention to the undertones of your chosen burgundy. If it leans cool (more purple), pair it with cool neutrals. If it’s warm (more red/brown), pair it with warm neutrals. Mixing conflicting undertones can make a room feel off.
• Lack of Texture: A single color, especially a deep one, can fall flat without varying textures. Mix velvet with knits, smooth ceramics with rough wood, and glossy finishes with matte ones to add dimension.
• Poor Lighting: Burgundy can absorb light, so ensure your room has adequate lighting, both natural and artificial. Strategic lighting can highlight your burgundy accents and prevent the room from feeling too dim or heavy.
• Clashing Patterns: If using patterned burgundy fabrics or wallpapers, ensure they complement each other rather than clash. Stick to one dominant pattern and introduce smaller, subtle patterns or solids.

Embrace the Burgundy Fall Feeling

Adding a burgundy fall accent to your interior decor is more than just a seasonal update; it’s an invitation to embrace warmth, luxury, and a deep sense of comfort within your home. From soft throws and elegant pillows to striking accent walls and sophisticated furniture, burgundy offers a myriad of ways to transform your space. It’s a color that speaks of autumn’s bounty, cozy evenings, and timeless style.

By balancing this rich hue with complementary colors, varied textures, and thoughtful placement, you can create a home that feels both stylishly current and wonderfully inviting. So, this fall, open your doors to the opulent charm of burgundy and watch as your home becomes the ultimate cozy retreat, ready to welcome you and your loved ones through the cooler months.

Ready to give your home that perfect fall glow? Start small with a few burgundy cushions or a throw, and gradually build up to larger accents as you discover what works best for your space. Your cozy fall sanctuary awaits!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is burgundy only suitable for fall decor?

Not at all! While burgundy is a quintessential fall color, its depth and richness make it versatile enough for year-round appeal. You can adapt it by pairing it with different seasonal accents. For example, in winter, pair it with dark greens and golds; in spring, with blush pinks or light blues; and in summer, with crisp whites or vibrant turquoises for a more dramatic contrast.

How do I introduce burgundy into a small room without making it feel smaller?

In smaller rooms, use burgundy sparingly as an accent rather than a dominant color. Opt for small items like throw pillows, candles, a single piece of artwork, or a small decorative object. Consider a burgundy pattern on a light background. Keep walls and major furniture pieces in lighter, neutral tones to maintain an airy feel, allowing the burgundy to provide a pop of richness without visually shrinking the space.

What colors pair best with burgundy for a sophisticated look?

For a sophisticated aesthetic, burgundy pairs wonderfully with deep neutrals like charcoal gray, taupe, or cream. Metallics such as gold, brass, and even matte black accents elevate its luxurious feel. For a rich, jewel-toned palette, consider pairing burgundy with emerald green, navy blue, or deep teal in complementary textiles or art.

Can I mix different shades of burgundy in one room?

Absolutely! Mixing different shades of burgundy, from lighter wine tones to deeper maroon or almost black-cherry hues, can add incredible depth and interest to a room. Just ensure there’s enough variation in texture and finish (e.g., matte, velvet, glossy) to keep the look dynamic and prevent it from appearing flat or monochromatic.

How do I clean burgundy velvet upholstery?

Velvet upholstery, especially in a deep color like burgundy, requires careful cleaning. For minor spills, blot immediately with a clean, dry cloth (do not rub). For general cleaning, vacuum regularly with an upholstery attachment. For deeper cleaning or stubborn stains, it’s often best to consult a professional upholstery cleaner to avoid damaging the fabric or causing water stains.

Is burgundy a timeless decor color, or just a trend?

Burgundy is largely considered a timeless and classic color, especially in interior design. While its popularity may ebb and flow with trends, its inherent richness and elegance ensure it never truly goes out of style. It has historical roots in luxury and royalty, giving it an enduring appeal that transcends fleeting fads.