The holiday season is all about warmth, joy, and gathering—so your home should reflect that same spirit. For interior stylist and Certified Luxury Home Specialist Marina Barghouti, the magic lies in transforming spaces into inviting sanctuaries that balance comfort, beauty, and sophistication. Known for her blend of European elegance and South Florida flair, Marina shares her approach to holiday decorating—making every corner of the home feel magical, cozy, and chic.
Start with a Statement Tablescape
“The dining table is often the heart of holiday celebrations,” Marina says. “I always start here when setting the tone for seasonal décor.” Create a layered tablescape using textured linens, elegant dinnerware, and seasonal elements like candles, greenery, or ornaments. Think of your table as a curated display: mix heights with candleholders and serving pieces, incorporate natural elements like pinecones or branches, and don’t forget the small details—a velvet ribbon around a napkin or a personalized place card can go a long way.
Stick to a Three-Color Palette
“One of my signature tips: keep your color palette focused,” she explains. “I always work with three main colors—this creates visual harmony while allowing enough flexibility to play with accents and textures.” Neutrals such as ivory, taupe, or soft grey make a great base and can be elevated with rich hues like deep emerald, classic burgundy, or shimmering metallics. If you love a pop of color, go bold with one standout shade and keep everything else refined and understated.
Layer Cozy, Luxurious Textures
To create that inviting, lived-in feel, layering is key. “Mix plush throws, faux fur, velvet cushions, and soft lighting to warm up your living spaces,” she advises. “Lighting is crucial—opt for warm-toned lights, candles, and fairy lights to instantly create ambiance.”
Add Subtle, Festive Touches
“Festive décor doesn’t need to be over-the-top,” Marina notes. A garland draped over a mirror, a bowl of ornaments on a coffee table, or a simple wreath can make a big impact without overwhelming your space. Scent is also a powerful mood-setter—diffuse pine, cinnamon, or clove essential oils to give your home that holiday feeling the moment guests walk in.
Make It Personal
“At the end of the day, your holiday décor should reflect you,” Marina says. “Whether you lean minimalist or maximalist, the goal is to create a space that feels intentional and joyful. By sticking to a cohesive palette, layering textures, and adding thoughtful touches, you can create a holiday home that’s stylish, cozy, and truly luxurious.”
About Marina Barghouti
Marina Barghouti is a renowned Interior Stylist, Certified Luxury Home Specialist, and Accredited Home Staging Professional, celebrated for her ability to transform living spaces into works of art. With more than 650,000 followers on social media, she shares her passion for refined design and modern elegance with audiences worldwide. Born and raised in Eastern Europe and now based in South Florida, Marina combines timeless European sophistication with coastal warmth to create interiors that exude comfort and luxury.
I always work with three main colors—this creates visual harmony while allowing enough flexibility to play with accents and textures.