Let's be honest: Christmas decorating takes a lot of time and effort, and sometimes we find ourselves doing both during the busiest time of the year. When decorating for Christmas, Hanukkah, etc. on occasions like these, it's best to consider a more minimalistic approach.
Minimizing decorations allows you to continue to honor your traditions without worry. Also, opting for a more understated look doesn't mean you have to forego elegance or sophistication. For example, take the following great ideas from world-class designers on how to make a statement for less. You'll find inspiration in everything from fabulous stockings and art, to feather crowns and dreamy dresses. Here are 11 minimalist Christmas decorating ideas that will impress all your guests.
Grow with flowers
A tree doesn't have to be the star of your home this holiday season. Create unique displays that highlight seasonal plants without overwhelming your living space. Designer Alex Papa Christidis chose a beautiful camellia design instead of a traditional Christmas tree in his Hamptons living room.
Decorate the windows
This year, look beyond giant wreaths and create unique ornaments for your home. Consider the innovative approach of florist Michael Putnam, who decorated the windows of his New York home with snowflakes and added a subtle holiday element. Small flowers glow in the candlelight at night.
Also include gardening
A wreath of fresh herbs adds a subtle festive touch without being overpowering. Here, an after-dinner wreath of magnolia and orange blossoms opens up for cozy fireside conversations in the Andrew Howard-appointed dining room.
Wear old favorites
Instead of buying decorations that you only use once a year, look for ways to decorate items or details around the house. For example, designer Alessandra Branca's children and grandchildren are treated to a 19th-century Julius Caesar every Christmas season. They love a 19th century chest of drawers in their Chicago apartment.
Ancient removal brush
Bring out your family's favorite old and vintage jewelry and decorations and display them in a stunning display. Hand-carved Santas on the Albert Hadley cocktail table invite guests to relax in the library of Christopher Spitzmiller's Hudson Valley home.
Play with texture
While we enjoy fresh greenery in our Christmas decorations, consider using different textures and materials to create a wreath or wreath. Designer Anthony Todd created an eye-catching window wreath made of duck and pheasant feathers in his New York apartment. A feather theme ran across the table creating whimsical centerpieces.
Pay attention to small accents
As this clever sock idea from Tammy Connor proves, sometimes the smallest idea makes the biggest impact. The designer hangs the stunning miniatures around his Birmingham studio on grassy wallpaper trees. Each sock has a wish or motivational quote for the coming year.
Don't forget the bedroom
Whether you're hosting guests or not, the bedrooms in your home deserve attention during the holidays, too. Follow Peter & Paul's interior designer and floral designer Mark Thompson and decorate your bedroom with simple but elegant bedding, black pine and hollyhocks.
The color scheme should be simple
To update your Christmas decorations, consider using shades of your home's color scheme instead of the usual reds and greens. Designer Daryl Carter brought this vision to life by hand-painting pumpkin-colored ribbons and glass ornaments on the Christmas tree to match the artwork in the Washington living room.
Review of leading issues
Centerpieces aren't just flowers and candles. Natural greenery such as cedar, balsam and white pine wreaths can create a festive atmosphere to decorate this Vermont barn table.
Highlight the unexpected
Think of Christmas decorations as a way to highlight subtle architectural details in your home. Floral and interior designer Mark Thompson decorated the doors of the Peter & Paul Hotel with an asymmetrical wreath of Fraser fir and decorative tones.
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