Modern, Minimalist Holiday Decor
There’s no place quite like New York City during the holidays. To quote Darlene Love, “The music plays all night in Little Italy. The lights will be going up on old Rockafella's tree. People window shoppin' on Fifth Avenue” and all we want is for you to have a beautiful holiday season.
The warm, modern interiors we create for clients are all about capturing your polished lifestyle. In addition to beautiful materials and finishes, design is also about thoughtful storage that keeps the clutter at bay. So how do you add holiday decor into a meticulously edited space while staying true to who you are?
Holiday Decorating for All Five Senses
The rush of the holiday season is all the more reason to embrace a cozy, comfortable environment at home. We encourage you to start slow and focus on natural elements like greenery and rich, organic textures. This modern chanukiah from West Elm in earthy terracotta would be a welcome addition to any mantle.
Layer in cozy, touchable details like garland adorned with velvet ribbon or a cashmere throw. A quick search for “Scandinavian holiday decor” will turn up a bevy of inspiring images. Next, add warm scents — like vanilla, pine, spices or wood notes — that envelope you without overpowering. For the sounds of the season, we love a virtual yule log soundtrack (festive instrumentals by Hans Zimmer? Yes, please!) or the pop stylings of the one and only Mariah Carey.
If you incorporate all of the senses, you can easily create an environment with an inviting vibe that subtly suggests holiday cheer.
Via Maris Trace Chanukiah from West Elm.
Finding a Festive, Modern Medium
A common misconception about modern, minimalist holiday decor is that it is typically cold, all white, glass, metal and quite stark. We would never suggest such a corporate or uninviting vibe. Contrary to what National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation might have you think, there is a happy middle ground between the Griswolds and their neighbors, Todd and Margo — the key word is restraint. A home doesn’t need to be over the top to feel warm, inviting and festive.
Minimalist Christmas tree decor can be achieved in a variety of ways. Embrace the Scandinavian style with white lights and a neutral palette for ornaments and garland. Colored Christmas light devotees can score vintage ornaments on Etsy or art-inspired ornaments from The Met. You can also go back to the origins of the tradition — the concept of the Christmas tree is said to have been created by the Germans — by decorating with dried fruit.
Embracing a less-is-more approach is also better for dust allergens, a concern we’ve been hearing about from an increasing number of clients. You can take this a step further by selecting holiday plants — like poinsettias, norfolk island pine and Christmas cactus — that actually work as mini air purifiers. Pretty, festive and functional? Now we’re talking!
Iznik Garden Hand-Painted Glass Ornament Set from The Met.
Holiday Tabletop
If there’s one area where we might go over-the-top, it’s tabletop. Hosting a holiday feast for family and friends is one of the great joys of the season. We like to mix versatile items like gold flatware and creamy linens with colorful, modern serving pieces, plates and dinnerware in festive colors and patterns. You can also add a touch of drama or whimsy with place cards (like these gilded pine cones from West Elm) and napkin rings (like these herb-inspired beauties from Etsy).
Forest Shine Metal Pinecone Placecard Holders from West Elm.
Where To Buy Modern Holiday Decor
Speaking of shopping, we would be remiss if we didn’t share a round-up of our favorite spots to score festive decor. As New Yorkers there will always be a special spot in our hearts for Bloomingdale’s 59th Street, Saks 5th Avenue, and Bergdorf Goodman.
That being said, in-store displays tend to be maximalist by nature, so we do a lot of online shopping with sites like Food52, West Elm, CB2 and Pottery Barn. Etsy is our go-to for unique, artisan pieces. We also like to mix high-end, hand-crafted porcelain pieces from Haviland with steals from European brands like H&M or Zara Home for an unexpected twist on a more traditional tabletop.
Whether you love a hint of sparkle, are drawn to Old World elegance or are simply seeking something different, a trip to John Derian is always a good idea. In need of a host or hostess gift? Iittala has a great gift guide and this minimalist Christmas ornament from Orrefors is a classic choice.
“Lurçat” porcelain plate set by Wilmotte, available on Haviland.
Give Yourself the Gift of Time
If at any point the holidays start to feel overwhelming, we encourage you to grab a cocktail at a decked out destination like Rolf’s here in New York City, a German restaurant known for their over-the-top holiday vibe. As you admire all of the festive decor, think about the time it must take to install — and where on earth do they store all of it?
Once you’re back at home you can appreciate your own modern, minimalist approach to the holidays in a new light. Having a simple, yet stunning set-up also allows you to tweak and transition your decor from Thanksgiving through the New Year without having to start from scratch every couple of weeks. Instead you can focus on the people and things that matter.
If you are looking to treat yourself this holiday season, we encourage you to check out Holiday Workroom. From bespoke wreaths, floral arrangements and tree design to party packages including table layouts and dinner menus, they know how to create special moments that pop. They’ll even do the set-up and tear-down for you — talk about a Christmas miracle!
Christmas Tree decorated by Holiday Workrooom.
