Create a Holiday Glow: Design Ideas for Comfort and Connection
Create a Holiday Glow- Design Ideas for Comfort and Connection
The holiday season is a time for gathering, sharing, and celebrating with loved ones- a perfect opportunity to transform your home into a haven of warmth, joy, and togetherness. From quiet evenings with loved ones to bustling party gatherings filled with laughter and cheer, a thoughtfully designed environment can elevate every moment and improve your well-being.
Creating an inviting atmosphere with a holiday glow that cultivates comfort and connection can be achieved in a few simple steps- without overwhelming your space or yourself in the process!
Assess your living area– the heart of holiday gatherings. Does the layout feel inviting and cozy? By ensuring that your furniture is placed in a circular layout around a coffee table or fireplace, not only encourages conversation but also creates intimate gathering zones. If your space allows it, consider creating different zones like conversation areas, reading and play areas with furniture placement and area-defining rugs.
Set the festive scene with layered lighting to create a soothing, calming atmosphere by using a combination of your existing ambient (general) lighting with string lights, candles and dimmable lights. Drape string lights along bookshelves, doorways or windows for a whimsical touch, and cluster candles of varying heights for added depth. Amplify the ambiance with considered placing of tea lights in frosted or coloured glass holders for a truly magical effect.
Dare to break away from traditional red and green with modern alternatives. Try pairing warm neutrals and earthy tones with gold accents and sage green in your accessories and decor- or consider a current favourite trend of mine- rich jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, and deep amethyst, for an opulent and dramatic festive look. For a modern and luxurious touch, you could level-up the metallic touches by combining copper or champagne accents with blush tones. You could also consider a few selective applications of reflective surfaces like mirrors and metallic accents throughout the room, which amplify light and add sparkle- providing a festive feel while maintaining a sophisticated aesthetic.
Balance the shimmer of metallics with natural textures that bring warmth and ease to your home, helping you and your guests feel more at ease in a space. Accessorise your furniture and space with natural materials such as chunky knit blankets, velvet cushions and plush rugs, and incorporate natural elements by decorating your home with evergreen branches, pine cones and dried citrus garlands. Fresh flowers in seasonal hues (eg. poinsettias) are a wonderful addition to have, particularly as part of your dining table setting.
Top tip: experiment with the current trend of having a decorated Christmas tree in a few rooms, and spread festive cheer throughout your home!
Lastly, for a truly holistic approach to your home’s holiday transformation, be sure to include soft holiday music and seasonal scents for a fully immersive sensory experience. Simmer cinnamon sticks, cloves, and orange slices on the stove, light a scented candle, or have essential oil diffusers with holiday-inspired blends like fir or peppermint for a memorable festive aroma.
Indulgence is one of the pleasures of the festive season- this year, why not treat yourself and your loved ones by creating a warm, welcoming, and joyful home that brings people together in the spirit of the season? That’s true wellness-focused design: a space that nurtures connection, comforts the soul, and celebrates the joy of togetherness.
Nicolene Mausenbaum, owner/ director of Dezyna Interiors, is a qualified interior designer who specialises in creating inspiring modern spaces for busy professionals internationally- helping clients love the space they’re in. Skilled with over 24 years of experience, Nicolene is a listed Professional Senior Interior Designer member of the IID (The African Institute of the Interior Design Professions), and has created many unique interiors internationally from residential, corporate & commercial spaces to retail interiors. She is also a published interior expert, featuring in publications like Stylist.co.uk; Daily Mail; Women & Home; Ideal Home & others.
