These Minimalist Christmas Decor Ideas Leave a Big Impression
Let's face it: Decorating for the holidays takes a lot of time and effort—and sometimes we don't have those two things to offer during the busiest time of the year. In instances like these, it's smart to consider taking a more minimalist approach to decorating for Christmas, Hanukkah and more.
Scaling back your decorating allows you to still celebrate your traditions without the stress. Plus, going with a more minimalist look doesn't mean you have to sacrifice elegance or extravagance. Take for example the dazzling ideas below from the world-class designers who show how to make a statement with less. You'll find inspiration for everything from whimsical stockings and rustic tablescapes to feather wreaths and dreamy swags. Ahead, 11 minimalist Christmas decor ideas that are sure to wow all your guests.
Go Big with Flowers
A tree doesn't always need to be the star of your home during the holiday season. Create standout displays that celebrate seasonal flora without overwhelming your living areas. Here, designer Alex Papachristidis opts for a captivating camellia arrangement instead of a traditional Christmas tree in his Hamptons living room.
Dress the Windows
Think beyond the giant wreaths this year, and make window displays that feel unique to your home. Consider the innovative approach of florist Michael Putnam, who adorned the windowpanes of a New York country house with snowberries, offering a subtle holiday element. The tiny blossoms glow under the nighttime candlelight.
Incorporate Greenery
A garland made from fresh greenery offers a delicate festive touch without appearing overly gimmicky. Here, a magnolia and orange garland sets the scene for cozy fireside chats after dinner in this Andrew Howard-designed dining room,
Dress Up Old Favorites
Look for ways to dress up features or details already in your home instead of buying decorations you'll only use once a year. For example, designer Alessandra Branca's children and godchildren like to dress up the 19th-century bust of Julius Caesar in her Chicago townhouse every holiday season.
Brush Off the Antiques
Brush off the dust from your family's favorite antique and vintage decorations and ornaments—and put them on dazzling display. Hand-carved Santas on top of the Albert Hadley cocktail table welcome guests to relax in the library of Christopher Spitzmiller's Hudson Valley home.
Play with Texture
While we enjoy incorporating fresh greenery into our holiday decorations, consider using different textures and materials when creating garlands or wreaths. In his New York apartment, designer Antony Todd crafted eye-catching window wreaths using duck and pheasant feathers. The feather theme was seamlessly extended to the table, resulting in whimsical centerpieces.
Celebrate Small Accents
Sometimes the littlest idea makes the biggest impact as proven by this clever stocking idea from Tammy Connor. The designer hung the chic miniatures onto the trees of the Gracie wallpaper enveloping her Birmingham atelier. Inside each stocking is a wish or an inspiring quote for the coming year.
Don't Forget the Bedroom
Whether you're hosting guests or not, the bedrooms in your house also deserve festive attention. Emulate interior and floral designer Mark Thompson's approach at the Peter & Paul Hotel by dressing the bedroom with simple yet elegant swags of black juniper berry and boxwood.
Keep the Color Scheme Simple
For a fresh take on holiday decor, consider incorporating shades from your home's existing color scheme rather than the traditional red and green. Designer Darryl Carter exemplifies this approach, hand-painting the pumpkin-hued burlap ribbon and glass ornaments on his Christmas tree to match the artwork in his Washington, D.C., living room.
Rethink Centerpieces
Centerpieces for dining tables aren't limited to flowers and candles. Natural greenery, such as the cedar, balsam, and white pine garland adorning this table in a Vermont party barn, can cultivate a festive tablescape in a relaxed manner.
Highlight the Unexpected
Look at holiday decorating as a way to highlight the unsung architectural details of the home. Floral and interior designer Mark Thompson decked out the doorways throughout the Peter & Paul Hotel with an asymmetrical Fraser fir garland sporting jewel-toned pomegranates.
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