Futon Company says: Christmas 2020 might be like no other, which gives us a great excuse to embrace the festive feel and go large on bits and bobs which up the feelgood factor. When everything around us is uncertain there’s only one thing to do: Spruce up your space and find quick, clever and simple ways to bring light, fun and joy (with a smatter of festive cheer) into your home. Whether it’s a cosy Nordic-inspired cushion, snug loungewear for binging Netflix or a portable tray for drinks (hot chocolate in the morning; cocktails at 11am and sherry at lunchtime – go on, you know you want to!) there are plenty of ways to make Christmas 2020 one to remember – for the right reasons!
And to give you inspiration and top tips, we’ve selected our favourite titbits from Kiera Buckley-Jones’ article Decorate the Season article in the December issue of Elle Decoration. She says:
– Dust off your baubles and deck the halls with ideas to inspire your festive schemes this year….
– Wrapped in red: Give traditional red a bold new look by pairing with the subtle hues of orange.
– Simply does it: Create a focal point with an oversized yet understated twig and fir cone wreath. Layer your table in soft, earthy tones with linen, candles, bowls and coloured glasses.
– Rustic touch: For a simple but striking centrepiece, use tapered candles. Arrange along the length of the table, with candle holders nestled among fragrant fir branches.
– Still life: No room for a tree? Create a festive vignette by decorating a branch stood in a coloured vase. For an extra layer of magic, scatter baubles beneath it and add your favourite scented candles.
– Hearth of the home: introduce long-lasting scent and colour by hanging fresh eucalyptus across the mantlepiece [if you have one!].
– Countdown to Christmas: Add a personal touch with an advent calendar made of photographs and handwritten notes that are significant to your nearest and dearest. Display the 24 cards on a plywood or canvas frame, covered in a fabric background of your choice. Number each photo on the reverse and arrange in a random order, decorate with string and then secure with a pin or peg.
– Curated objects: Dress the table with existing mismatched candlesticks, low vases, heirloom decorations and simple white table linen. For a cosy yet sophisticated yuletide touch, introduce candlesticks in different colours and display hand-picked dried flowers.
– Heavens above: Handmade paper-cut snowflakes, single fir branches, dove decorations and glass baubles make for a whimsical display hung above a dining table. Tie at varying levels with string or ribbon for full effect and remember the lowest ones need to be above head height so that guests don’t bang into them.
– Finishing touch: An effective yet easy way to inject a festive touch in a hallway is to wrap green foliage around a bannister with highlights of copper leaves. Complete with a simple, loose silk bow.
– Family tree: Create a tree of memories using treasured photographs of family and friends. Especially poignant for remembering lost loved ones, or those who can’t be with you this year.
