OUR 4 BEST HOLIDAY DECORATING TIPS

It’s the most wonderful time of the year… and that means it’s time to decorate your home to reflect the joy of the season. For many families, the 2021 holidays are the first time they’ve been able to gather in some time, making this year’s holidays extra special. 

The interior design consultation team at Complements Home Interiors, an interior design company in Bend, is here to help! We’ve put together some of our best decorating tips. No matter which holidays you celebrate, you can create a cozy, welcoming and festive space where family and friends can celebrate in style.

1. CHOOSE A COMPLEMENTARY COLOR PALETTE

First things first: Choose a color palette to guide your decorating choices. Using complementary colors throughout your home creates a sense of cohesion from room to room.  

Wondering which colors work well together? Use a color wheel to determine which colors are harmonious. For instance, you may choose complementary colors — or those that are on opposite sides of the color spectrum — to create contrast, impact, and even a little bit of drama, if you’re so inclined. 

If you prefer a peaceful, calming look, consider a monochromatic approach. This type of palette uses shades, tints and tones of a single base color to create a harmonious vibe. 

With an infinite number of color combinations to choose from, picking a palette can feel a bit overwhelming. We find it helpful to start with the existing colors in your home, and work from there. For instance, if your home is dominated by cool tones, you may choose a blue or green and silver palette. In a home with predominantly warm tones, you might consider, for example, a red or pink and gold palette. 

The key lies in choosing consistent colors that you can pull from room to room. Wreaths, candles, ornaments, throw pillows, table settings, gift wrap… using the same color scheme in your decorative items creates a cohesive look throughout your home.  

2. BRING THE OUTSIDE IN

Using natural elements in your holiday decor adds a fresh look and fragrance. Start by sourcing greenery — such as pine, fir, cedar, boxwood or holly boughs — straight from your yard. Adding in store-bought bouquets of seeded eucalyptus or magnolia ups the texture and aroma. 

If you’re feeling crafty, weave branches together to create simple garlands and wreaths. Add a string of white lights for a bit of sparkle. You can also simply place cut boughs in glass containers  — hurricane vases are always beautiful — for a classic touch of green on a corner table, mantel, or as a centerpiece. 

Similarly, use pine cones, bare branches, holly berries and other natural elements to bring texture to your decor. Baby’s breath bouquets hidden in greenery add a subtle snow-like touch

3. LIGHT IT UP

When you think of the winter holidays, do you imagine a cozy, warm glow that imparts an almost magical feeling? You can achieve this inviting ambiance by using plenty of ambient lighting.

String lights and fairy lights are the perfect way to get that homey glow. Consider replacing the bulbs in your light fixtures with vintage style or “warm white” bulbs; these create a cozier light than “cool white” or “daylight” bulbs.

4. DISPLAY CHILDHOOD AND HOMEMADE TREASURES

It’s easy to feel nostalgic around the holidays… so why not embrace the feeling? It’s a perfect time of year to dig out those childhood decorations, ornaments, and even old toys. When displayed judiciously, vintage items make your holiday decor unique. 

Similarly, homemade crafts can also lend a folksy touch. For an easy look that goes from tree to table setting to fireplace mantel, wrap presents in craft paper and tie with complementary ribbon colors. Add a spring of greenery for that extra touch.

When decorating for the holidays, keep year-round decor in mind, too. For example, a beautiful bowl on your side table can be filled with gleaming ornaments during the holiday season and piled with pine cones during the rest of the winter.  

Are you seeking interior design services in Central Oregon? Complements Home Interiors, an interior design company in Bend, will help you create the beautiful, welcoming home of your dreams. Contact us for interior design consultation or to learn more about home remodeling in Central Oregon.