Deck the Halls Like a Designer: 10 Tips
There’s something magical about the moment your home begins to shimmer with the glow of the season…The twinkle lights, the greenery, and the cozy textures make winter feel warm. But behind every effortlessly beautiful holiday space is intention and taste.
Consider this your guide! Whether your style leans classic, modern, or somewhere in between, these ten designer-approved tips will help you deck the halls with beauty, balance, and a touch of Christmas magic.
1. Start with a Unifying Theme
Before you pull out the bins, decide on your story. Whether it’s “Winter Woodland,” “Golden Glamour,” or “Modern Nostalgia,” choosing a cohesive theme helps every space feel intentional. If you love multiple looks, contain them. Give each room its own personality while keeping the overall palette harmonious.
2. Keep the Color Story Consistent
Select two or three main tones and repeat them throughout. This creates visual rhythm and a sense of flow. For instance, if your tree has copper and champagne accents, carry those tones into the mantel, garland, and table settings.
3. Extend Greenery Beyond the Tree
Your tree sets the tone, but the real magic happens when the greenery continues—on the staircase, mantel, or even the chandelier. Keep your firs and evergreens consistent; mixing too many different foliage can feel chaotic. Repeat textures for balance.
4. Layer in Texture + Warmth
Think touchable layers like knitted throws, velvet ribbons, linen stockings, and soft wool pillows. These elements invite comfort and soften the sparkle. Style with both texture and tone in mind, not just color.
5. Always Choose Warm Lights
Avoid harsh white LEDs. Warm, golden-toned lighting adds instant intimacy and complements natural greenery. When possible, dim or diffuse lights to create a cozy, candlelit feel.
6. Lean Into Nostalgia (Without Going Overboard)
A few sentimental ornaments or heirloom pieces add heart and authenticity. If certain lights or decorations remind you of someone you love, or a time you’d love to repeat, honor those accents because it’s part of your story.
Pro Tip: Just be careful not to go overboard. Too much nostalgia, and your home will feel dated at best, or like a garage sale at worst. Mix them in with elevated materials to strike the right balance between personal and polished.
7. Nod to Trends, Don’t Chase Them
Trends come and go, but timeless design endures. Bring in subtle touches of what’s “in” (like oversized bows, metallics, or vintage glass ornaments) but ground them in your existing aesthetic. Too many trends can cheapen the look.
8. Play with Scale and Height
Designers think in layers, like tall candleholders beside low garlands, oversized ornaments mixed with delicate ones. Varying height and scale adds movement + sophistication.
9. Create Small Moments of Magic
Don’t stop at the main living area. Add a wreath in the powder room, a mini tree in the kitchen, or a bowl of ornaments in the entryway. These smaller details make the entire home feel festive and intentional.
10. Remember: Less Is Often More
Luxury is restraint. Once you’ve layered your greenery, sparkle, and accents, take one step back and edit. Negative space gives your décor room to breathe and lets the beauty of your key pieces shine.
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At the end of the day, holiday decorating should reflect you. Your memories, your family, and the moments you’re creating right now. A designer’s secret? It’s not about perfection; it’s about presence. Choose what brings warmth, joy, and meaning to your space, and let everything else fall into place.
Need inspiration and a few tasteful touches? We have some exquisite Holiday Decor in our Home Market. We invite you to treat yourself to a Holiday Beverage in the ONYX + ALABASTER Coffee lounge, and wander through to our Home Market for all your decor and gifting needs.
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Looking for Design Expertise beyond the holidays?
Our award-winning design team specializes in creating timeless, livable interiors that reflect your story and your style. With Full-Service Interior Design offerings for Luxury Residential and Boutique commercial spaces, as well as one-time Design Consultations or personalized Interior Buying Sessions —we’re here to help you design a space you love, all year-round.