For most people, there is nothing more rewarding than entertaining during the holidays. Holding small intimate parties for extended family members and your loved ones at home can be fun and cozy. There are so many different elements that go into decorating a home for the holidays that it is impossible to list all of them. Hence, here are some takeaways from the team at SuMisura.
Serving that Christmas dinner
This is the time of the year for some glitz and glamour on the table. Nestle sparkly, colour-dipped ice cubes in your Champagne ice bucket, add a candelabra or a colourful floral centrepiece in a decorative vase to make a show-stopping statement. Try setting the table with ribbons on the napkins. Guests will be rewarded with a pretty presentation! For more festive flair, you can also tie ribbons around the stems of your Champagne flutes or wine glasses for that extra bit of festivity.
A floral centrepiece, candles and glasses spell class when it comes to entertaining
More greenery
For more festive cheer, bring a touch of green into the house by placing lush greenery at doorways and on the balcony. This creates an inviting atmosphere and adds a woodsy aroma to the room. For those who lack green fingers, faux greenery can also look fabulous. Boughs of holly and pots of evergreen topiary make for a glossy yet understated decoration. Group various sizes and shapes together for a stronger statement.
Greenery at doorways and on the balcony add festive cheer to the occasion
Casting the perfect glow
Those who prefer a more romantic setting can create soft, flickering lights for the mantelpiece or Christmas tree. Or, have a soft warm white LED glow on a table in a dark corner. You can group inexpensive frosted or clear glass vases of different sizes or add tea lights and enjoy the glow. If you like a brighter party setting, work with cool white lights that diffuse through some cabinetry or wall features to prevent harsh light-throw. Striking accent colours such as red and tangerine on throw cushions and area rugs jazz up the festive mood.
Have a soft glow in dark corners for a romantic setting
Family photos and accessories draw the eye to the mantelpiece.
Vary the height and visual weight of decorative items.
If you prefer a brighter setting, jazz up the room with cool white lights and colour accents
Decorative photo collage
To decorate a fireplace mantel or media mantel, collect your family’s holiday photographs and frame them up. The right mix of accessories can enhance a simple mantel piece. Apart from favourite pictures, you can fill the area with smaller accessories such as vases, candlesticks and decorative objects. Pick upon colours and materials found elsewhere in the room. Vary the height and visual weight of items and you’ll be on your way to a well-dressed mantelpiece!
Have fun decorating and cheers!
Angela Lim is the co-founder of SuMisura, a multiple award-winning interior design firm. Itis the official interior designer for the tallest residential building in Singapore and Malaysia, The Astaka in Iskandar Malaysia, scheduled for completion in 2018. Better known for her glamorous, haute-couture show flats, Angela’s work has been featured in many design magazines.
This article appeared in The Edge Property Pullout, Issue 708 (December 21, 2015) of The Edge Singapore.