the power of fall color in a landscape design

there’s something about fall color that just feels like a deep exhale. the moment the leaves turn gold, rust, and crimson, it’s as if nature is reminding us to slow down and soak in the beauty of change. around naperville, aurora, plainfield, batavia, geneva, wheaton, downers grove, and lisle, i’ve noticed how a thoughtfully designed landscape can make that seasonal transition feel magical. at rooted outdoor living, i love using plants, textures, and design elements that highlight the richness of autumn—it’s not just about beauty, it’s about how those colors make us feel.

as the days get shorter and cooler, our bodies and minds naturally crave warmth and comfort. warm hues in the landscape—like golden maples, red-tinted grasses, and rust-colored hydrangeas—create an emotional lift that helps balance the darker days ahead. studies have shown that spending time in colorful outdoor spaces can reduce stress and increase serotonin levels, and honestly, i think we all feel that instinctively. whether it’s the fiery orange of a sugar maple or the soft burgundy of sedums fading into fall, these colors connect us to the rhythms of nature in such a grounding way.

adding fall color doesn’t have to mean starting from scratch. small design changes—like adding a few ornamental shrubs, reworking your garden beds, or updating your patio planters—can bring that warmth right to your doorstep. combining colorful plants with stone, wood, or even corten steel accents adds texture and depth that feels cozy and inviting. it’s the perfect season to rethink how your landscape supports your mood and well-being.

so as fall unfolds across the western suburbs of chicago, take a moment to notice what colors speak to you. nature is giving us her final burst of brilliance before winter sets in, and it’s the perfect inspiration for designing a space that nourishes both the eye and the spirit.