Expert tips from Yvonne Luo, designer for John Henshaw Architect Inc.
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Creating a holiday atmosphere is all about the details, says Yvonne Luo, designer for John Henshaw Architect Inc. (JHA). Here, Luo shares her expertise on holiday decor trends, sustainable choices and how to make your home a cosy retreat this season.
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Start with scent and texture
Scent has a profound influence on the way people feel about a space, says Luo. She recommends adding seasonal aromas to your home, like cinnamon, pine or vanilla, through candles and diffusers.
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Texture also plays a key role, which can be achieved by layering soft throws, plush pillows and natural elements like wood or rattan for a warm, inviting look.
To tie everything together, stick to timeless colours, like deep reds, greens and gold, or more modern shades, like icy blues, says Luo.
You want to elevate, not overwhelm
To achieve balance in your holiday decor, Luo suggests adding some metallic accents to your current home decor.
Elegant candle holders or bowls of ornaments can enhance your space without taking over, she says.
Think about colours that work with the decor you have in your home. Neutrals pair beautifully with soft metallics, and bold spaces can be enriched with vibrant holiday accents, she says.
Lean into timeless staples like poinsettias and pine cones, and focus on seasonal but versatile pieces, she says.
Tailoring holiday decor to your style
Your home’s design should guide your holiday decorations, says Luo.
If you’re a minimalist, simple, natural accents, like eucalyptus branches, work well. If your home decor is more traditional, embrace classic holiday colours.
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If you want to refresh your style, explore thrift stores for unique, vintage pieces.
Switching up your decor every year keeps it vibrant and engaging, says Luo.
You can have both a personalized and trendy Christmas tree, says Luo. To achieve this, choose a theme that resonates with your family, such as nostalgic or animal-inspired ornaments.
Adding personal touches, like decorations from past holidays or custom-made ornaments, will make your tree unique. For visual impact, she recommends using an elegant tree skirt and layering decorations from largest to smallest, finishing with a standout topper.
For that “holiday film” feel, garlands are key, says Luo. Drape them over mantels or staircases and decorate them with berries and lights.
Apply the same approach to your table settings, she says:
“Choose elegant tableware, seasonal centrepieces and festive napkins to create a sophisticated dining experience. Layer your table with chargers, plates and glassware that harmonize with your overall decor theme, adding an extra layer of elegance to your holiday gatherings.”
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Swap out regular textiles for festive throws and pillows, and remember the power of lighting, she says.
String lights, fairy lights and LED candles create a warm, magical ambience. Floral arrangements featuring poinsettias or holly can add seasonal charm without overwhelming your decor.
Budget friendly upgrades and sustainable style
Pressed for time or funds? Luo suggests pre-lit faux trees and battery-operated fairy lights for easy festive flair.
You want to focus on key areas, like mantels and entryways, to maximize impact. And cosy throws and pillows are affordable swaps that make a big difference, she says.
Eco-friendly holiday decor doesn’t mean compromising on style, says Luo. She advocates for DIY projects that use foraged materials like pine cones and branches.
She says these elements connect you to your environment and add an organic touch. Thrifting for decorations and using seasonal plants like eucalyptus also help reduce waste while adding charm.
Above all, Luo encourages people to decorate their homes with intention this holiday season. The goal is to create a space to enjoy quality time with loved ones.
“Consider how your decor can elevate these moments, whether it’s a beautifully adorned tree that reflects your story or a warm, inviting atmosphere that encourages relaxation and connection,” she says.
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