Tables That Feel Like Home: Two Styles, One Intention
As a designer, I’m often asked how to make a table feel festive without going overboard or, worse, becoming cliché. My answer is always the same: Create a feeling, not a theme. A well-styled table should tell a quiet story about the moment you want to create, whether it’s an intimate dinner or a cheerful holiday brunch.
I love approaching tablescapes as mood boards, one being more grounded and sophisticated, the other playful and full of light. Both can feel equally elevated when they’re done with intention.
The Calm Table: Effortless Warmth
This look begins with texture. When the table itself has natural beauty, let it show. Skip the tablecloth and use the wood as your foundation, as this instantly adds warmth and authenticity. Down the center, weave a soft garland of greenery; let it fall where it wants. The goal is undone but intentional. Add taper candles in mixed holders using brass, matte black, or glass to create rhythm and glow without clutter.
Keep the palette quiet: warm neutrals, soft whites, and a touch of green. Place settings should feel balanced but not overly coordinated. Think linen napkins folded casually and dark placemats to ground lighter plates. A sprig of rosemary or a handwritten name tag is all the “decor” you need. The end result is a setting that invites slow conversation and calm energy—a table that feels as relaxed as it looks refined.
The Merry Table: Playful Elegance
Then there’s the opposite approach—the one that embraces color, whimsy, and a touch of nostalgia. This style works beautifully for a Christmas brunch or any occasion where joy takes center stage.
Think layers of color and patterns, like candy-cane napkins and scalloped plates trimmed with gold. The combination feels fresh yet festive, without leaning too literal.
I like to tie velvet ribbons around coupe glasses; it’s a small detail that adds charm and texture. Fresh greenery and white berry sprigs can bring balance, softening the bold tones. The key is contrast: mixing playful elements with classic shapes so it still feels elevated.
Whether you lean toward calm or merry, the principle is the same: Design for connection, not perfection. A table is less about impressing and more about inviting. When every detail feels intentional but lived-in, your guests won’t just notice the design; they’ll feel it. And that’s what turns a gathering into something memorable.
HausCollectiveInteriors.com | @hauscollectiveinteriors
Creating A Warm and Joyful Living Room for the Holidays
Decorating for the holiday season is all about creating warmth and joy throughout your home, making your everyday spaces cozy, beautiful, and filled with festive charm.
The key to accomplishing this look is to add thoughtful details that elevate your existing decor, focusing on creating an inviting space that makes everyone feel welcome and full of holiday spirit.
A well-styled holiday space creates a feeling of comfort, with touchable layers and natural elements that invite you to touch and linger. Soft lighting, like warm-toned lamps and candles, fill the room with a gentle glow, enhancing the feeling of coziness.
Incorporating greenery and wood accents adds a natural element that makes the space feel both beautiful and heartwarming. The mantle, often the centerpiece of a living room, can be styled for the holidays by layering textures and holiday accents. Greenery and metallic decor creates a balanced and inviting display, while soft stockings add charm.
Tables are a wonderful way to set the tone for festive elegance. Simply add seasonal items to your existing decor, grouping candles, figurines, and small potted evergreens or blooms together to create a cohesive focal point. Adding bells and glittery ornaments offer a touch of spirit for your display.
Textiles like pillows and blankets play a vital role in creating a warm holiday ambiance. Swap out everyday pillows with plush velvet or embroidered covers in rich jewel tones like deep reds, greens, or metallics to instantly elevate the room. Layering cozy throws enhances comfort and adds a luxurious, relaxing feel.
Ultimately, holiday design is about creating a balance between seasonal accents with your existing decor, filling the room with warmth, gentle sparkle, and natural beauty. With a focus on soft textures, festive details, and warm lighting, your home will feel effortlessly stylish and welcoming this holiday season.
Holiday Style for Your Bedrooms
The holiday season is a time to transform bedrooms and guest rooms into cozy retreats. Since we spend so much time in our bedrooms resting, relaxing, and rejuvenating, during the holidays it’s important to create a joyful space that makes the retreat extra special for you and your guests.
Start with simple updates that instantly add warmth and luxury. Swap everyday bedding for plush pillows in rich holiday hues to create a luxurious look and feel. Layering different textures adds warmth and visual interest, turning the space into a comfortable holiday sanctuary. Including a few extra soft, inviting blankets for your guests will help them feel right at home.
Adding tasteful holiday accents can make a big impact without overwhelming the space. Special touches like festive figurines, mini ornaments, a scented sachet, or a decorative box filled with chocolates on a nightstand or dresser invite joy and celebration.
Light a candle with a holiday scent like cinnamon, pine, or vanilla to infuse warmth and spirit into the room. A sprig of greenery or pinecones placed on a bedside table brings a bit of nature’s holiday charm indoors. For guest rooms, thoughtful touches like plush robes, slippers, or a tray of mini toiletries wrapped in festive packaging can make visitors feel extra special.
Soft lighting like candles, low-light lamps, or string lights create a warm glow that invites relaxation. During the holidays, simple updates like adding textures, seasonal accents, and personalized touches will turn all of your bedrooms into stylish, cozy, joyful holiday havens—perfect for celebrating the season in style and comfort.
MLeonardDesign.com | @mleonarddesign