Is anyone else feeling a little bored of their home office? As a freelance writer, I spend more time than I’d like to admit parked at my desk. And after staring at the same boring walls and cluttered mess day after day, I’m desperate for a change of scenery. 

The good news is, it doesn’t take a ton of time or money to give your home office a quick seasonal refresh. With a few simple updates, you can infuse your workspace with autumnal flair that will inspire you to get stuff done.

Give Your Walls a Fresh Coat of Fall Color

One of the easiest ways to jumpstart an office makeover is by adding fall color to your walls. I’m not suggesting you paint the entire room orange—though if that floats your boat, go for it! Instead, consider these quick and affordable options to liven things up:

Add an Accent Wall

Paint or wallpaper one wall in a rich fall tone like burgundy, amber, or mustard yellow. This pops of color does wonders to make your office feel warm, cozy and productive. 

For my home office makeover, I used leftover maple-colored paint to create an accent wall behind my desk. It complements the neutral walls but still adds that autumnal flair I was craving.

Display Seasonal Wall Art 

Swap out your old wall art and photos for pieces that have fall flair. Some ideas:

– Framed botanical prints of leaves, flowers, mushrooms or acorns

– Landscape photos of fall foliage, forests or fields

– Signs or prints with autumnal sayings like “Fall is my favorite color”

I printed out a photo I took of vibrant red maple leaves and hung it in a simple black frame. This free DIY art added just the right pop of fall to my newly painted accent wall.

Decorate Your Office Desk for the Season

Once you’ve spruced up your office walls, it’s time to give your desk itself a fall-tastic makeover. A few simple styling updates can create an autumnal oasis that feels fresh and inspiring.

Display Fall Greenery and Florals

Mini pumpkins, gourds, and seasonal floral bouquets are perfect fall accents for your desk. I found small white pumpkins at my grocery store for under $2 each and put them in a wooden tray I already owned. 

You can also grab a few stems of seasonal flowers like mums or sunflowers from a local farmer’s market or grocery store. Just be sure to swap out the water every 2-3 days to keep them fresh.

Organize with Natural Accessories

Wicker baskets, woven trays, ceramic vases, and wood organizers are perfect for corralling office supplies while complementing your autumnal décor. 

For example, I stored my external hard drive, notebooks and extra pens in a rattan box I bought at a thrift store for $3. It keeps my desk tidy while adding some natural texture. 

Display Fall-Scented Candles

What’s a cozy autumn space without lovely scented candles? Choose fall fragrances like pumpkin spice, apple cinnamon, or maple pecan to fill your office with autumn cheer.

I love keeping a soy candle or scented wax melt going on my desk for a calming aromatherapy boost as I work. Just be cautious with the flame and never leave a real candle burning unattended.

Create Warm and Cozy Seating

To complete your fall office makeover, give your seating a seasonal refresh as well. This creates a wonderfully warm and welcoming spot to work from as the weather cools.

Layer on Cozy Throws and Pillows

Drape the backs and seats of your office chairs with knit or woven blankets in autumnal hues. I found an inexpensive burnt orange throw at Target that adds a perfect fall flair. 

For extra coziness, toss on some plush pillows too. Square buckwheat pillows make great back support while you work. 

Adjust the Lighting 

Cool overhead lighting can make an office feel stark and sterile. Swap out harsh white bulbs for warmer incandescent or amber-hued LEDs. I guarantee this simple switch makes your office feel more soothing. 

You can also position a lamp directly on your desk. Go for a natural material like ceramic or woven shades. I found a small wooden lamp at a thrift store that gives off the perfect warm glow as I work on projects.

Final Thoughts on Fall Home Office Updates

With just a few easy, affordable changes, you can infuse your home office with autumnal flair that will make you excited to work each day. 

Don’t underestimate the power of décor to improve your outlook and productivity. By displaying my favorite fall accents and adding calming lighting, my home office quickly went from blah to fab.

I’d love to hear how you give your office space a seasonal refresh! Share your best tips and inspiration in the comments below. Have fun and get creative with your own autumnal makeover. Contact J&D Handyman