In France, the end of summer signals the beloved tradition of “la rentrée.” Inspired by the start of the school year, it marks a transition for everyone from the indulgence of vacation to a renewed sense of focus and desire for homely comforts. Just before fall arrives — towards the end of August and beginning of September — the French turn their attention to the details of their homes and begin to prepare them for the colder months ahead.
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This shift is more than practical; it’s deeply rooted in the French way of life, where the cyclical rhythm of nature is embraced and each season is celebrated for its unique offerings.
In true French fashion — where function is always paired with elegance — here’s how to prep your home for the cozy, contemplative months ahead.
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1. Deep Clean the Home
In France, prepping your home for fall with a deep clean is just as crucial as it is in spring. While spring cleaning might be about refreshing your space by inviting in the elements, this season is all about preparing it for the long, cozy nights ahead.
The French believe in cleaning with intention, starting with the living room and working their way through the house. Floors are thoroughly mopped and floorboards waxed. Particular attention is paid to often forgotten areas, such as dust on lampshades and atop cupboards. Windows and their treatments are cleaned, helping to maximize the dwindling natural light.
Pro tip: Whether you’re lucky enough to have a grand hearth or a smaller, more modern setup, now’s a great time to make sure your fireplace is in good working order with a sweep and thorough clean.
2. Declutter and Streamline Possessions
French homes are known for their understated elegance. This look that is achieved by carefully curating each item that enters their home. Decluttering is a bi-annual occurrence, with fall being the second time of year where the French reassess their living spaces, removing unnecessary items and making sure that each piece has its place.
Take a cue from the French and focus on quality over quantity. A clutter-free space not only helps to achieve an elegant French look, but can also help create a sense of calm and order as you transition into the busier period.
3. Prepare Outdoor Living Spaces for Cooler Months
Even as the temperature starts to drop, the French don’t abandon their outdoor spaces. Instead, they prepare them for year-round use. Start by waterproofing outdoor furniture and swap out summer items, like parasols, with weather appropriate accessories, such as wind-proof lanterns.
Sweep away fallen leaves, trim back any overgrown plants, and clear the gutters to prevent blockages. For a cozy touch, consider adding blankets, waterproof pillows, or even a wood burner to maximize your comfort outdoors throughout the fall.
4. Swap In Heavier Textiles
As the French know well, prepping your home for fall means it’s time to swap out the light, airy fabrics of summer for something more substantial. Sheer linen and cotton curtains and lightweight bedding are replaced with velvet drapes and quilted bed throws. These heavier textiles not only add warmth but also contribute to the rich, inviting aesthetic that defines French interiors in the cooler months.
Pro Tip: Patterned bedding can help infuse your bedroom with energy at this time of year, creating an inviting and uplifting atmosphere as the days grow shorter.
5. Introduce Fall Themes
Seasonal décor in France centers around subtlety and natural beauty. To evoke the rich and warm design of French country homes, consider adding home textiles, such as cushions and rugs, in earthy fall colors. Touches of nature, such as bowls of nuts or a branch displayed in a simple vase, provide additional character, celebrating the season in a way that feels both timeless and refined.
6. Set the Atmosphere
In French homes, creating the perfect atmosphere is an art form. When prepping your home for fall, turn to warm, ambient lighting to set the scene. For example, candles or dimmed lamps bathe the room in a gentle light, instantly making your space feel more intimate and welcoming.
Finally, the French never overlook the power of scent, enriching their homes with the aromas of each season. Opt for warm, spicy notes, like cinnamon, fig and vanilla, or earthier aromas like wood smoke, tobacco and moss. For a more subtle, natural fragrance, we love Apis Cera‘s range of beeswax candles, which release a soft, honey-like scent as they burn. For a candle that will last all of autumn, check out their adorable 100-hour beeswax hive-shaped candle. Alternatively, if you wish that summer would never end, grab their natural honey and lavender candle to fill your home with the scent of sunshine all autumn long.
