Before bringing in pumpkins and plaid, give your apartment a good reset. A clean, clutter-free space sets the mood for fall and makes everything feel cozier. Vacuum rugs (especially if you’ve tracked in any crunchy leaves from the Stone Arch Bridge), dust your windowsills, and wipe down surfaces.

Did you know that you can add a cotton ball with a few drops of essential oil to your vacuum to make your home smell delightful? We suggest clove or cinnamon! Don’t skip those often-forgotten spots like ceiling fans and under the couch.

It’s also the perfect time to swap out summer linens for flannel sheets or chunky knit blankets. If you live in one of our older Minneapolis buildings, you’ll especially appreciate the extra warmth when those cool September nights hit.

And while you're at it, make some space in your fridge and pantry for fall favorites like wild rice soup, Honeycrisp apples from a local orchard, and anything with cinnamon.

Make the Most of a Small Space

If you're renting a studio in Uptown or sharing a duplex in Northeast, space might be limited - but that doesn't mean you can't decorate! Think vertically. Floating shelves are great for displaying mini pumpkins or jars of acorns (which, let’s be honest, are easy to find after a walk through Como Park).

Cabinet doors and entryways are perfect spots for hanging lightweight fabric signs or wreaths with removable hooks. Baskets and trays are also a solid choice- use them to hold cozy essentials like fleece throws, slippers, or your latest Magers & Quinn Booksellers find.

Corners can be turned into stylish nooks with a small branch arrangement or a tall vase of dried wheat. Add a comfy chair or pouf to create a reading corner perfect for flipping through cookbooks from the Mill City Farmers Market.

Decorating For Fall on a Budget

There are plenty of simple, affordable ways to make your space feel warm, inviting, and ready for autumn. Start with your wall art with easy DIY ideas like framed scrapbook paper in warm patterns, a seasonal wreath, or pressed leaves from a neighborhood walk.

Even your bathroom and kitchen can get a fall refresh with seasonal hand soaps and towels in shades like burnt orange, mustard yellow, or forest green. Add warmth underfoot by layering textured rugs or switching to deeper, richer colors like rust or navy.

Soften your lighting with warm-toned bulbs, string lights, or lanterns for that cozy golden glow. Whether you're decorating a studio or a two-bedroom, these easy ideas will help bring fall into every corner of your apartment and make the season feel even more special.

Don’t Forget Fall Apartment Maintenance

Fall isn’t just about keeping things looking nice. It’s about avoiding cold drafts, frozen pipes, and unexpected heating issues. A few proactive steps can improve your comfort, lower your utility bills, and show your landlord you’re a responsible tenant.

Your Renter-Friendly Fall Maintenance Checklist

•Check windows and doors for drafts: If you feel cold air coming through, contact our maintenance team via a work order. Even a rolled-up towel at the base of your door can make a big difference in a drafty Minneapolis apartment.

•Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: Replace the batteries and double-check that everything is working.

•Protect your plumbing: If you live in a building with exposed pipes, like some older apartments in Cathedral Hill, leave closets and cabinet doors open on negative temperature days.

•Prep your outdoor space: If you have a balcony or porch, bring in cushions and soft items before it rains or snows. Use waterproof covers for any furniture you leave outside, and store what you can indoors.

•Clean around radiators: If your building uses radiator heat, make sure nothing is blocking the airflow. Dust buildup can affect heating efficiency and air quality.

Final Thoughts

Decorating your apartment for fall in the Twin Cities doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Here at Hornig Companies, we know your home is incredibly important to you. A few thoughtful swaps - flannel sheets, warm lights, autumn scents, and natural textures - can completely change the feel of your space.

Whether you’re curling up after a bike ride down the Midtown Greenway or inviting friends over for a bowl of chili, these simple updates can make your home feel like the perfect fall retreat.