The festive season is all about cherishing moments with family and friends, so your home should reflect that sense of warmth and connection. Instead of getting caught up in the rush, take a step back and create spaces that feel personal and inviting. Cormari, our resident interior designer, shares her simple yet effective tips to help you bring the magic of Christmas into your dining room, hallway and living room.
With natural elements, personal touches and a focus on what matters most, these ideas will make your home feel cosy, festive and uniquely yours.
The Dining Room
The dining table often becomes the heart of Christmas celebrations, but styling it doesn’t need to feel like a chore. Cormari suggests taking a relaxed approach that blends natural elements with your personal style.
Start with seasonal colours that evoke the warmth of Christmas - deep oranges and plums are timeless choices that bring richness and depth to your table. When it comes to crockery and cutlery, embrace the beauty of imperfection. Mixing vintage plates or mismatched pieces can add character and charm, creating a look that feels effortlessly put together.
To add a personal touch, consider custom place cards. These can be as simple as handwritten names on folded card, potentially decorated with sprigs of greenery. They’re quick to make and show your guests you’ve thought of them.
Finally, take inspiration from nature. Forage for greenery in your garden - holly, pine branches, or even ivy can make stunning centrepieces. Arrange them in a loose, organic style that feels natural rather than forced. This approach not only keeps things simple but also connects your table to the outdoors, bringing a refreshing, festive feel to your dining room.
Above all, remember that Christmas is about spending time with loved ones. Don’t let the details overshadow the joy of gathering around the table. Keep it simple, personal, and focused on creating a welcoming space in which everyone can relax and enjoy.
The Hallway
Your hallway is the first glimpse of your home’s festive spirit, and Cormari’s tips make it easy to create an inviting and cheerful space. The secret lies in simplicity and using what you already have at hand.
Start by foraging for decorations in your garden or nearby green spaces. Cuttings of holly, ivy, or pine branches can be arranged into garlands for your bannister or small wreaths for your walls. Collecting acorns or pinecones with the kids can add a fun, creative touch to your decorations while also making it a family activity.
For hallways with a mirror, Cormari suggests adding greenery around the frame. This instantly brings a festive feel to the space and acts as a focal point for guests as they arrive. You can layer in fairy lights or ribbon to elevate the look further, creating a cosy glow.
Keep the lighting simple but effective. Soft, warm lights complement natural greenery and help the space feel welcoming without overwhelming it. The goal is to create a hallway that sets the tone for the rest of your home - relaxed, festive and personal.
By using natural elements and handmade decorations, you’ll transform your hallway into a charming entrance that feels festive without being overdone. It’s all about making your space warm and inviting for the people who matter most.
The Living Room
The living room is where memories are made during the festive season, from unwrapping presents to settling in for Christmas films. Cormari’s advice focuses on creating a space that feels warm, inviting and truly yours.
Start by keeping your decorations personal. Instead of filling your tree with store-bought baubles, include handmade ornaments or sentimental items that hold meaning for your family. This could be decorations crafted by the kids, mementoes from past holidays, or even repurposed items that reflect your unique style. The idea is to make your living room feel connected to your family’s story.
To enhance the cosy atmosphere, layer textures throughout the space. Rugs, cushions and throws are perfect for softening the room and adding warmth. Opt for rich, winter-friendly materials like wool, velvet or chunky knits. These layers look inviting and make the room more comfortable for gatherings or quiet evenings in.
Finally, focus on the overall mood by incorporating soft lighting and natural accents. Candles, fairy lights, or a crackling fireplace add to the charm, while greenery like pine branches or wreaths can tie the living room’s décor to the rest of the house.
Merry Christmas from Rugs.ie
From everyone at Rugs.ie, we wish you a very Merry Christmas. May your home be a warm and welcoming space where cherished memories are made. We hope these festive design tips inspire you to create a holiday setting that’s unique and personal to you. Here’s to a wonderful New Year ahead, full of happiness and joy.
