Bring out those boughs of holly

With Christmas around the corner, we wouldn’t be wrong to say it’s literally raining red and green. And bringing home the Yuletide spirit could be the perfect icing on the cake. Traditional Christmas trees, stockings, snow flakes, hollies and icicles — these are just a few things that bring home the Christmas cheer.

Architect Dhriti Seth says that it’s easy to organise one’s home around this time. “Most of what we learnt about Christmas traditions happened while we were in USA. Apart from bringing the entire family together, Christmas is all about bringing warmth during the cold winter months. So, one can opt for shades of burgundy, green, red, blue, gold and silver to signify Christmas.

Small knick-knacks such as pine cones, pot pourri, wreaths and stocking can cheer up the atmosphere by a notch or two. For an added effect, create the snow effect with crystals, table runners as well as green and red upholstery,” she says.

While colours rule the roost, traditional embellishments such as wreaths and stockings hung over the fireplace and presents under the Christmas tree are common home décor during the year end. Recreating the story of Christmas with the barns, baby Jesus and the farm animals in miniature sizes is yet another popular Christmas tradition. But what spells Christmas loud and bold are the traditions that have evolved over the years. The traditional red and green has been replaced with white and silver for a pristine Christmas look, wherein the effect is such that your room seems to be touched by snow.

“The Christmas tree is a must. Most Bangaloreans prefer a Christmas tree placed outdoors, while some still resort to the cosy interiors of their homes. While placing it outdoors, one has to keep in mind that the lights and accessories used to decorate the tree might get moist due to dew and a slight drizzles. An indoor tree is preferable any day. One can try the colourful glittering stars and balls, lights or even a traditional snowman with reindeer. For a more thematic approach, you can use specific colours such as blue and silver or silver and red. In fact, the interiors can be more green and red, with cushions thrown casually on one side or on a chaise lounge. Red runners as the centre piece of the dining table with silver candles holding red candles are a good idea,” suggests interior designer Arti Sud.

Moving on from themes and colours, decorating the house is the next important thing. Most Christmas celebrations include carol singing, midnight masses, baking cookies and waking up to Santa’s gifts. From Christmas trees to elaborate wreaths, candles to colourful home décor, interior designer Vinita Chaitanya chalks out the necessities of the season.

“The easiest way to bring in cheer is with red and green. For the dining table mats, runners in Christmas colours with pine cone additions could do the trick. Although novel Christmas traditions such as the tree and twinkle lights cannot be ignored, try out beautiful paper cut outs or stain glass baubles. The important spaces to keep in mind are coffee tables, the dining space and small knick-knacks for the windows,” she states.
So, it’s time you bring home Rudolf, the abominable snowman and elves.