The Great Spanish Home Switch-over: From Sun Loungers to Soft Throws

Spain’s life revolves around sun. Long lunches are enjoyed on terraces soaked in sunshine, siestas taken in the shade, and evenings that stretch well past midnight. As the weather cools and the light becomes softer, it is time to adjust.

Autumn in Spain doesn’t mean harsh weather – far from it. Autumn in Spain is a season of mild temperatures, golden sunsets and comfort.

Expats across the Balearics, Costa del Sol, and Valencia call it “the great home switch-over” – that moment when the house shifts from summer’s open, breezy feel to something warmer, slower, and cosier.

Did you Know?

According to property experts at Idealista, 63% of home-buyers in Spain now prioritise outdoor and garden amenities such as terraces, green areas, and pools – proving that the Spanish lifestyle is still very much about enjoying the outdoors, even as the seasons change.

And that love of outdoor living doesn’t end when summer does – it just evolves. You can make your home transition seamlessly from warm days to cool nights. Here are some of our best tips:

 Swap linen for layers

In Spain, summer is all about minimalism. Crisp linen sheets, sheer drapes, and tiled flooring left bare are the norm. It’s time for texture in the autumn.

• Instead of using thin throws, opt for chunky knits, woven blankets or shades such as rust or olive.
• Add cushions with depth – think velvet, wool or brushed cotton.
• Install natural rugs such as jute and wool to soften tiles that used to feel refreshing, but are now a little cold.

Rethink your lighting

Lighting becomes a mood-setter as evenings get earlier. Switch bright overhead bulbs to warm, layered lighting:

• Table lamps or woven lanterns will give off a soft glow.
• Candles or LED candlelights can create a warm, flickering atmosphere.
• For terraces solar fairy lights, rattan hangings or pendants will keep the magic of outdoor living alive at night.

Place mirrors next to lamps or candles for a simple trick by local designers. This will double the light in small Spanish living rooms and make them feel bigger.

Bring the outside in

Autumn is when Spain’s landscapes turn golden and olive-toned – the perfect time to reflect that natural palette indoors.

• It’s easy to add texture, scent, and color with dried pampasgrass, eucalyptus branches, and olive bushes.
• Switch citrus scents with earthier ones like sandalwood, amber, or fig.
• Bring a few potted plants indoors before the cooler nights arrive – they’ll thrive in soft indoor light.

Local markets in Andalucía or Mallorca sell handmade terracotta pots and woven baskets perfect for autumn displays.

Reimagine your Terrace for cooler evenings

Terrace life doesn’t end just because days are getting shorter. The Spanish are known for their outdoor lifestyles that extend throughout the year.

• You can still enjoy your vino in the evening breeze by adding an outdoor rug and soft cushions to each chair.
• Consider purchasing a portable chimenea or fire pit to extend the time you can spend under the stars.
• Layer lighting – candles, lanterns, or string lights – to transform your patio into a warm retreat.

If you’re an expat who has moved to Spain in order to enjoy its lifestyle, here’s the secret: don’t retreat, but adapt.

Embrace Spanish warmth – literally

Many older Spanish homes were built to stay cool, not warm – thick stone walls, tiled floors, and high ceilings make heating tricky once autumn evenings arrive.

• To trap heat, invest in lined curtains and draught-excluders.
• Book maintenance for your chimenea and pellet stoves now, before the demand increases.
• Consider adding an air conditioner that can be reversed for a cost-effective, efficient heat.

Autumn is the perfect time to enjoy your home.

The best part of autumn in Spain isn’t just what you add to your home – it’s how you live in it.

• Replace salads with Rioja and warm tapas.
• Invite friends to your home for a cozy dinner and catching up.
• Discover your couch, your books and your slow mornings.

In Spain, you don’t have to feel sad that summer is over – in fact, you have the wonderful opportunity to slow down and enjoy the coziness of the autumn season. It’s less about the decor than it is about rhythm. It’s a reminder that life here moves with the seasons – and that’s what makes it so special.

Pack away the sun loungers. Pull out the soft throws. And welcome autumn. The best place to be is at home, even if you put the swimsuits away and the sangria in the cupboard.