Weekly Design Inspiration: Create your own Christmas
One of the most exciting parts of Christmas is getting out all of the decorations and reminiscing on all of the wonderful memories with your loved ones over the years. Everyone has a favourite piece, showing us once again that design is not frivolous, but sentimental when done with intention. All of us have a different idea of what the holidays mean to us. For some of us, tradition reigns supreme. For others, the nostalgia of mid-century modern is what makes us feel at home. A few of us have even taken on new traditions, realizing that less is sometimes more.
Tradition Takes Hold
One of our favourite Christmas memories is watching The Nutcracker, seeing all of the lavish decorations. Plush, velvety ribbons tied around the banister are truly a sight to behold. A roaring fireplace going with a real Christmas tree close by conjures visions of Christmas with our grandparents. One of the key elements to this design is keeping symmetry in mind. You can often see this being created with wreaths hanging in the windows. Pay homage to other traditions in your decorations, like the 12 Days of Christmas.
Source: Rachel Parcell
Source: Blesser House
Retro All the Way!
Without a doubt, one of the most fun styles to create a Christmas vignette in is with the mid-century modern style. This style was so innovative for its time, turning every tradition on its head. Instead of real Christmas trees, picture shiny, aluminum trees in every colour. Ornaments also turned artificial; picture stylized deer, birds and other creatures recreated in glass and ceramics. Excessive, silvery tinsel is a fun way to play with texture! If you feel especially daring, try to use a modern colour palette, like pinks and teals!
Source: Suburban Pop
Source: Craft and Tell
Minimalism is More
During this modern age, some people feel that we already have everything we need, and want to communicate this with their style. If you want to keep things basic this Christmas, but you still want to keep up the Christmas spirit, try out a pared back look. This look really relies on using textures to create a well-rounded look. When possible, use natural materials; feathers, tarnished metal bells, linens and furs are all a wonderful way to subtly decorate your place. Most importantly, use greenery. Garlands along the mantel, down the banister, and around the windows, all bring the outdoors inside!
Source: 204 Park
Source: So Much Better with Age
Design Tip: No matter what your style is, you can always create memories around your decorations. One of our favourite traditions is getting a new ornament every year! It’s a beautiful way to reflect on the past year.
