Festive Decorating Inspiration

Walls: Yeabridge Green No.287

Whatever’s on the cards this season, whether you’ll be Rocking Around the Christmas Tree or having more of a Silent Night, our festive decorating tips have got you covered.

Between small seasonal tweaks and full-blown makeovers, fresh neutrals and daring darks, there are ideas here to suit all styles. Crucially, as the countdown to party season begins and the last-minute RSVPs roll in, these looks can also be scaled up or down depending on how much time you have to play with.

Nothing beats a white room for versatility, as these two very different spaces show. If your main entertaining space could do with freshening up before guests arrive, an all-over treatment of Wimborne White (left) feels bright, clean and classic, especially styled simply with warm white lights and silver accessories.

On the right, the subtly pink-toned Great White takes on more of a quirky, contemporary feel despite the room’s period features. The secret shortcut to party-ready personality? A touch of paint on your dining chairs, plus a contrasting colour to frame your favourite architectural feature.

There’s no surer shortcut to feeling good about your home than highlighting something that brings you joy. In short: if you love something, treat it to a spot of paint.

We’re talking framing – fireplaces, pictures, mirrors – with a contrasting shade to your wall colour, to draw admiring eyes to your most-loved features and finds. We’re also talking furniture. With our super-tough Modern Eggshell finish for wood and metal, there’s no reason your favourite pieces have to miss out on the festive fun.

In advance of the festivities, why not take a leaf out of our Colour Curator’s book and lavish a dining room dresser with some love and attention? We love Joa Studholme’s use of espresso-brown Cola on the outside of this china cabinet, combined with the floral print backing.

Festive decorating needn’t be all merry and bright. For the most inviting backdrop to fireside conversations and candlelit feasts, embrace richness and depth and turn to our inky blues for inspiration.

Hague Blue and Chinese Blue are year-round winners, but we particularly love how they bring these festive entertaining spaces to life.

Tight on time? Go for a feature wall. A chimney breast or alcove is a great candidate for a quick lick of colour that makes a huge impact.