Courtney Warren is a Texas-based interior designer whose work has been featured in Real Simple, Better Homes & Gardens, Good Housekeeping, Apartment Therapy, and Today.com. She is a frequent consultant on Fox 4 TV’s Good Day program in Dallas, was ranked in the top 3 percent of interior designers in the US by Houzz.com, and starred in the Dallas episode of TLC’sFour Houses. She delights in helping overwhelmed clients create beautiful spaces—and will never turn down a warm chocolate chip cookie or Diet Dr Pepper.
You can still bring cheer into your home this season without using red and green decor! Instead, why not cozy up your home with a few unconventionally inspiring colors and designs? Whether you like to add a bit of whimsy to your holiday decor or warm up your home with neutrals, we’ve got a few looks to share. Without turning your holiday decorating into a total Frankenstein, here are some ideas that may inspire you to decorate in a new and fresh way this Christmas.
Because maybe you’re craving a unique Christmas color palette...
Glitzy glam pink Christmas trees frosted in faux snow. And multi-colored felt garlands put a nice spotlight on your fireplace mantel. Add in more faux snow and metallic ornaments to finish! We also love making DIY Christmas cottage glass jars. Inside, add in faux snow, glitter, vintage ornaments, or mini blue Christmas trees.
All you need are some glass canisters or mason jars from your local crafts shops. And voila! Display a few throughout your spaces for a nice holiday touch. This is a super fun and inexpensive decorating project we do with the kids every year!
If pops of color aren’t your thing, try calming earth-inspired neutrals. This color scheme works flawlessly for farmhouse Christmas decor.
Here, I used shades of brown, beige, black, grey, and white.
I’m also always on the hunt for a cute sign with beautiful typography. And all things past perfect! Below, you’ll see right above the fireplace. I hung old vintage found wooden sculptures (barn shutters and repurposed fireplace molding).
I used a galvanized cake stand with a small skinny Christmas tree right on top in the center. Then, I added in a couple of stark white tabletop cone trees to balance the darker colors.
To turn the cozy factor up even more, I placed a pair of spindle chairs in reclaimed oak. Both are upholstered in a neutral striped fabric–which I love because they can go with just about anything. It’s a snug seating area right in front of the fireplace for tea or s’mores.
Then, I layered two 20″x20″ faux black fur pillows behind two grey printed 16″x26″ pillows. You can also never go wrong with fur stockings!
When designing any space, not just for the holidays– varying your textures, patterns, and colors make for a collected and cool feel. Classic holiday patterns include gingham and plaid. Also, try floral or striped patterns that complement the style you’re going for.
BUT, in my book–black and white gingham is always a winner. Need I say more?
Besides having fun with patterns, don’t forget to look to nature for inspiration. Bring the outdoors in! Use raw natural elements you’d see outdoors for a rustic space full of charm.
We enjoy burlap, brass, and reclaimed wood console tables and handmade wooden signs.
This one is a fav–“Hello darling, I adore you…tomorrow I plan to adore you even more.” There are always personable signs you’ll find that double as decor and speak to your heart.
Then, display green trees and pine garlands without any ornaments for a simple, elegant look!
Hello, oversized striped bows and Christmas poinsettias! Or vintage skate ornaments. Even if you follow a semi-traditional red and green look, you can still make your design unique. Inject your own personality! Style your spaces, trees, and walls with what you love!
Whether it’s grandma’s vintage plates displayed above your mantel or DIY silhouette drawing ornaments, don’t be afraid to stand apart from the heard.
By the way, shop my full Christmas look here. Even though I used traditional greens and reds this year, there’s still so much to choose from (that will fit just about any holiday style)!
We hope our holiday decorating inspired you to try something fresh this year. Whichever style you choose, design for real life! Always add in cozy throws, rugs, and pillows for an extra homey feel.
Thinking about designing your home for the holidays but need some help? Or need your spaces to function better for you and your family? Let’s talk!
Learn more here about our Christmas Decor packages! I also offer a complimentary, no-strings-attached phone call consultation.
We can also consult by video conference. If you’d like to meet at your home, please know we will use all current safety protocols.
For now, check out what our team here at Courtney Warren Home can do for YOU on our YouTube channel!