As the busy summer season winds down, September brings cooler air, changing leaves, and a cozy lakeside atmosphere. Whether you’re preparing your own Lake Murray retreat for friends and family or styling a vacation rental for fall bookings, a few simple decor updates can transform any space into an inviting autumn haven. Here are our top tips for creating warm, lakefront-inspired fall decor in your September rental.

1. Embrace a Warm, Nature-Inspired Palette

Start by shifting from bright summer hues to warm, earthy tones that reflect the season:

• Soft cream, warm taupe, and muted gray for base pieces (sofas, rugs, curtains)
• Pops of burnt orange, deep red, and golden yellow for accent pillows and throws
• Natural wood and wicker accents to highlight lakeside textures

Layering these colors creates a cohesive, welcoming environment that echoes autumnal landscapes around Lake Murray.

2. Layer Textiles for Comfort and Coziness

Textiles add instant warmth and texture—essential for cooler September evenings:

• Chunky knit throw blankets draped over sofas or armchairs
• Patterned area rugs in living and dining areas to define cozy zones
• Flannel or plaid pillow covers for a classic fall look
• Canvas or linen table runners and placemats in neutral tones

Mix and match fabrics—wool, burlap, cotton—to achieve a layered, lived-in feel that encourages guests to relax and linger.

3. Showcase Seasonal Centerpieces and Accents

Simple, natural centerpieces bring the beauty of the outdoors inside:

• Glass vases filled with branches of goldenrod, maple leaves, or dried hydrangeas
• Wooden bowls or trays displaying small gourds, mini pumpkins, and acorns
• Mason jars wrapped in twine and filled with battery-powered fairy lights
• Wicker baskets holding cozy throws or pinecones by the entryway

Rotate these accents between indoor and outdoor tables to connect living spaces with the lakefront setting.

4. Create an Inviting Entryway

The entry sets the tone for the entire rental. Welcome guests with fall touches that celebrate lake life:

• A seasonal wreath—consider birchwood, magnolia leaves, or mixed autumn foliage
• A rustic doormat with a welcoming message or leaf motif
• Bench or small table with a lantern, a stack of cozy blankets, and a bowl of fresh apples
• Hooks or a bench with storage for guests to leave life jackets, lake towels, or boots

This thoughtful setup helps guests transition smoothly from lake adventures to indoor relaxation.

5. Highlight the View with Window Treatments

Lake Murray’s shoreline and early-fall foliage deserve uninterrupted attention. Balance privacy and views by choosing:

• Lightweight linen or cotton curtains in neutral tones
• Roman shades in a warm plaid or solid color that complements your palette
• Sheer panels layered with heavier drapes to filter light and frame the water view

Install curtain rods that extend beyond the window frame so curtains can be pulled completely aside—allowing guests to wake up to autumn sunrise over the lake.

6. Use Lighting to Extend Cozy Evenings

As daylight hours shorten, layered lighting is key for a warm ambiance:

• Table and floor lamps with soft white bulbs—avoid harsh overhead lighting
• Candle clusters in hurricane glass or lanterns on coffee tables and mantels
• Outdoor string lights or globe lights on the deck and around the firepit area
• Dimmer switches for living and dining room fixtures to adjust mood

Encourage guests to light a candle or turn on a lamp when they return from a day on the water—instantly creating that “come in from the cool” effect.

7. Bring the Lake Inside with Nautical Accents

A few lake-themed touches tie your decor back to the unique setting:

• Driftwood sculptures or driftwood frames around mirrors
• Decorative oars mounted on a wall or leaning in a corner
• Artwork featuring Lake Murray scenes, vintage boat prints, or watercolor maps of the lake
• Pillows or throws with subtle nautical stripes in autumnal colors

These accents honor the rental’s lakeside location and remind guests of days spent on or by the water.

8. Update Outdoor Spaces for Fall Enjoyment

The deck, dock, and firepit area should be as inviting as the interior:

• Cozy Adirondack chairs with plaid seat cushions and throw blankets
• Wood-burning firepit stocked with seasoned firewood for crisp evenings
• Side tables for hot drinks and snacks
• Outdoor rugs in weather-resistant fabrics to define seating zones

Provide instructions for firepit use and easily accessible firewood so guests can enjoy campfire stories as fall nights settle in.

Book Your September Lake Murray Retreat

With these autumn decor tips, your Lake Murray rental will feel like a cozy cabin retreat—complete with contemporary comforts and lakeside charm. Whether you’re decorating your own getaway or styling a vacation home for guests, these touches will elevate the experience and boost your fall bookings.