Make your home sparkle this Christmas

Karen Neville

All Areas, Home & Garden, Round and About

Infuse your interiors with Christmas home styling tips for a festive makeover by award-winning South Oxfordshire interior designer Holly Scott

Christmas is the perfect time to create a warm, inviting home for gathering with loved ones. Holly shares her design tips whether you’re hosting festive get-togethers or simply adding seasonal charm, these ideas will bring warmth and sophistication to every corner of your home.

1. Choose a theme for a cohesive look

Select a colour palette or style that flows throughout your decor. A traditional red and green theme creates nostalgic warmth, while a silver and white palette lends a modern, sleek feel. Consistency from the tree to smaller accents like candles and wreaths will give your home a harmonious, polished look.

2. Garlands for instant festive style

Garlands add natural elegance and warmth and can be placed in various spots, layer or double up for a full, luxurious look.

• Windows and banisters: Frame windows or wrap stair banisters with garlands to spread cheer throughout.
• Table centrepieces: Use garlands down the centre of the table, enhanced with sprigs of greenery and fairy lights for a magical touch.
• Mantels: Draping garlands across the fireplace gives a cosy, welcoming feel.

3. Wreaths beyond the front door

Hang wreaths on interior doors, walls, or mirrors to spread festive spirit. Try a wreath as a centrepiece with candles nestled in the middle for a unique touch that connects seamlessly with your decor.

4. Make your Christmas tree shine

Your Christmas tree is the focal point of holiday décor. Start with plenty of lights to create a warm, welcoming glow. For balance, place larger baubles at the base and smaller ones towards the top. Mix textures and shapes for added depth, and consider using florist wire instead of string for a neat, secure finish.

5. Style a festive dining table

The dining table is the heart of festive gatherings. Place a runner or garland down the centre, layered with fairy lights, greenery, and candles of varying heights. Keep the food on a side table to let your decor shine, add crackers or mini gifts at each place setting for a charming touch.

6. Add whimsical festive details

Little touches can elevate your home, adopt a “more is more” approach: Drape fairy lights around door frames, inside lanterns, or across shelves for a cosy glow; fill bowls or vases with extra baubles for easy, eye-catching accents; hang small ornaments from candelabras to add festive whimsy.

Holly Scott is an award-winning interior designer, specialising in creating bespoke, elegant interiors. With 20 years of experience, including styling for Harrods and Ralph Lauren, Holly brings a refined, sophisticated approach to every project. Her design style focuses on blending comfort with luxury, ensuring every space feels lived-in yet timeless.