With living costs rising and space at a premium, traditional Christmas trees may not fit everyone’s holiday plans this year — both financially and physically. But design experts say you don’t need a full-size evergreen to create a festive atmosphere.
“For most urban dwellers, there simply isn’t enough space to add a Christmas tree into the mix,” interior designer Molly Torres Portnof told MarthaStewart.com.
Interior designers shared these five creative alternatives with the lifestyle website that can transform your home into a winter wonderland:
Create mantel magic
Transform your fireplace mantel or dining table into a holiday focal point using layered textures. “We love to use evergreen layered with juniper, eucalyptus, and dried florals,” said Becky Shea. “Pair wooden or ceramic elements to create a layered effect that gives volume to the mantel.”
Set the mood with scent
Designer Lily Lanahan recommends capturing the season’s essence through strategically placed candles featuring notes of pine, cedar and winter berries. Display them in metallic holders for extra sparkle.
Hang floating ornament displays
Designer John McClain suggests an ethereal approach: “Decide on a color palette and string up some beautiful ornaments in that color scheme throughout a room.” Use clear fishing line or festive ribbon with a thumbtack to secure them to the ceiling.
Design window wonderlands
Transform windows into magical focal points using fairy lights and garland for an enchanting display visible both inside and out.
Craft a wall tree
Design a modern two-dimensional tree using string lights or garland arranged in a triangle on your wall. Add lightweight ornaments and a star-shaped crown for a contemporary take on tradition.
About the Author
