As the weather cools down and days get shorter, it is the perfect time to de-stress with a decadent cocktail and gather inspiration for your holiday and home decor from a good book.
The Christmas by Design book showcases custom luxury homes in the U.S., including three in the Valley, designed by local firm Candelaria Design Associates.
Authors Patricia Hart McMillan and Katharine Kaye McMillan feature custom home projects all dressed up for the holidays. Perhaps most notable is Nancy Hanley’s residence.
“We were fascinated by the Arizona home of Nancy Hanley," Kaye says. "Her collection of miniature Christmas tree sculptures is displayed throughout her remarkable house, which was designed by award-winning architect Mark Candelaria."
Mark Candelaria, managing partner of Candelaria Design, says he feels humbled to have such wonderful clients who so graciously opened their homes for this special project.
"This book allows the reader to not only understand why we design a house in a certain architectural style, but also the importance of designing around how the homeowners live in their home, decorate and entertain in their home,” he says.
Nancy is thrilled her home, customized with passion and family togetherness in mind, was chosen to feature.
“I love decorating with garlands and collections of sparkly tabletop trees arranged on trays throughout the house," she says. "Of course, votives and candlelight add such warmth to every room. I love a beautifully set table for Christmas dinner—best of all is the family interaction around the table.”
"I think these homes exemplify the passion and level of detail these clients put into decorating for the holidays but at a very refined and sophisticated level while incorporating family history and memories," Mark says.