Story by Anna Peterson

photos by Terry Sweeney​

 

Decorating any personal space is a cinch once you consciously know your own decorating style. Decorating for Christmas is no exception. Interior designer Stacy McSpadden provides a few helpful tips for keeping your Christmas decorations updated, interesting, and ultimately, personal. One of the most important factors in keeping your Christmas decorations fresh, according to McSpadden, is to replace decorations every three to four years. However, a complete overhaul of all décor is unnecessary—changing out a few items each year will make the transition seamless and affordable. Incorporating fresh, natural items such as berries and greenery can change your holiday look in an instant. Keeping all of this in mind, McSpaddden created three completely different holiday looks to inspire you.

New colors are being added to the Christmas palette. Grays and silvers combine with new hues of red or green to create a more modern Christmas décor. Punches of color, along with glittery additions, allow Christmas decorations to blend seamlessly with a modern/transitionally decorated home. The addition of a few holiday pieces with new colors will slowly and subtly change the style and feel of older Christmas décor.

Look One: Transitional​

Goal modern decor

New colors are being added to the Christmas palette. Grays and silvers combine with new hues of red or green to create a more modern Christmas décor. Punches of color, along with glittery additions, allow Christmas decorations to blend seamlessly with a modern/transitionally decorated home. The addition of a few holiday pieces with new colors will slowly and subtly change the style and feel of older Christmas décor.

 

Look Two: Traditional​

Goal incorporate everyday items

New colors are being added to the Christmas palette. Grays and silvers combine with new hues of red or green to create a more modern Christmas décor. Punches of color, along with glittery additions, allow Christmas decorations to blend seamlessly with a modern/transitionally decorated home. The addition of a few holiday pieces with new colors will slowly and subtly change the style and feel of older Christmas décor.

Look Three: Crown & Crosses​

Goal elements found in nature

For a more rustic feel, add elements found in nature such as cones, berries and outside greenery.  A darker shade of green and tartan plaids can also lend a pop of rustic appeal without being overwhelming.  Be careful not to overdo the plaids—a small amount can go a long way.
A few Christmas elements scattered throughout the room will achieve the same overall effect as having one piece of furniture overflowing with decorations. The addition of metal items, such as the crown and crosses featured here, will lend a more casual feel while keeping with the rustic theme.

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​General

• To recreate these looks, enlist the help of a floral designer who can help add to existing pieces, creating a whole new look.

• Use individual pieces such as an arrangement, a table runner or a garland to achieve an updated feel without having to use all of the aspects seen here.

• When updating Christmas décor, it is possible to slowly change the look and feel of old décor by bringing in new separate pieces such as feather balls, garlands and metal items.