LITTLE ROCK — I’m looking for fresh new ideas for holiday decorating instead of the same old standards. What tips or suggestions do you have for brightening up the tired old holly and reviving the jolly to make my home more festive?
“This is a very common challenge; people are always looking for ways to dodge the stiff, stodgy feeling and keep their holiday decor fresh and dynamic,” says interior designer Tobi Fairley of Little Rock. “The secret to this is balance - don’t go so far away from the traditional that there’s no reference to the holiday you’re observing, but also don’t be afraid to get playful and keep your decor interesting to you.”
Begin by using what you have, Fairley suggests.
“You have already decorated your home in a style that’s your own,” Fairley says, “so don’t go un-decorating for the holidays.” Instead, find ways to incorporate the colors and patterns from the year-round decor into your Christmas look. For example, a home decorated in navy could have green added for Christmas.
And bring out your finery.
Even special collections that aren’t holiday-inspired can be used as a starting point for seasonal inspiration says Fairley, who incorporates her collection of 1930s mint green-hued Jadeite into her greenery.
Next, focus on transforming what you have.
“If you have a bookshelf in one of your main living areas, consider making simple book jackets in a color of craft paper that ties in to your holiday color palette,” Fairley says. “Throws, slipcovers and pillows are another temporary way to unify your seasonal design.”
For more freshness, add some freshness - literally.
“Infuse your holiday decor with natural elements, faux and real,” Fairley suggests. “A garland made of 100 percent imitation greenery just can’t offer the same sensory experience as the real thing but a natural one won’t hold up to time exposure.”
The solution?
Weave real greenery into a faux one for a great-smelling, great-looking accent that will last, Fairley says, adding that the same approach can be taken with fruit decorations.
Finally, Fairley advises on identifying a traditional decor and highlighting it.
“Chances are there are aspects of those tired old decorations that you absolutely love,” she says. “Why else would you keep dragging them out?”
Ask yourself what it is - the traditional color palette or maybe a particular theme - Santas, doves, angels or snowmen? A specific item or heirloom - your childhood stocking?
“Keep the things that kindle the holiday spirit for you and ditch the rest,” Fairley says, adding that keeping the look pared down will retain the traditional feel instead of abandoning it for the trendy.
Do you have a decorating or remodeling question? We’ll get you an answer from an authority. Send your question to Linda S. Caillouet, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, P.O. Box 2221, Little Rock, Ark. 72203 or e-mail:
HomeStyle, Pages 41 on 11/24/2012