While nothing beats those long-loved nostalgic ornaments passed down through the years, embracing this year's biggest Christmas trends will ensure your display stands out from all the years before.

Christmas decorating looks different in every household, and while much of this tradition is about bringing out those family-favorite decorations we all know and love, there's nothing wrong with letting timeless design trends guide your process.

From the history-rich Victorian Christmas trend that embraces wintry greenery and traditional rituals to the playful 'kitschmas' aesthetic that focuses on decorating to the absolute excess, these six unique trends might be different from one another, but each holds a quiet nostalgia and comfort that will make any Christmas display, big or small, stand out.

1. Victoriana

The Victorians transformed Christmas into an extravagant annual tradition. Paying homage to this era is a timeless way to decorate your home, whether that be decking your Christmas tree with handmade ornaments, scattering dried fruit garlands or placing taper candles across your dining table.

It was the Victorians who created the Christmas tree as we know it, popularized by Prince Albert, and traditional Christmas treats were created in this era too (think mince pies, Christmas pudding, and roast goose and turkeys). While not all Victorian traditions have stuck around, plenty have lasted, even centuries later, so leaning into this rich history is an enduring way to infuse your home with nostalgia and wintry charm.

A hearth decorated with hand-foraged greenery is a nod to how the Victorians once decorated, as is hanging a lush wreath on your front door. Making the most of the season will give your home a wintry, festive feel without straying into the tacky or 'overly decorated'. While the Victorian era was filled with grandeur, many decorated with produce available to them, from dried fruit to winter berries, sprigs of holly and ivy, and spindly willow branches.

2. Ralph Lauren Heritage

Everyone wanted a Ralph Lauren Christmas last year, and in 2026, the love for heritage-rich festive trends continues.

A timeless Christmas decor trend that has lasted for decades, this preppy look harks back to traditions of the past. 'I think the appeal lies in their timelessness and the nostalgia they evoke. The rich colors, classic patterns and layered textures feel elegant yet inviting, reminding me of traditional European interiors and Christmases past,' explains Salina Maria, founder of @salinamariahome. 'I’ve always been drawn to a collected-over-time aesthetic rather than anything overly styled or trend-driven. To me, the beauty of this look is that it celebrates tradition and creates a sense of home that can be enjoyed for generations.'

'My love of traditional Christmas decorating comes from a deep appreciation for family, nostalgia and the feeling of home,' explains Salina. 'My Italian heritage and memories of my Nonna have influenced my style, and I’m drawn to spaces that feel warm, welcoming and collected over time. I love incorporating natural greenery, rich colors and timeless decorations to create a home that feels both elegant and lived-in. At Christmas, it’s especially important to me to create that same sense of warmth and togetherness for my own children.'

3. Whimsical Nostalgia

'When I think of Christmas, I return to the vibrant Christmases of my childhood. I think most of us do!', says Brie Higginbotham of The Vibrant Dwelling. 'I think of the handmade ornaments my Gammy made when she was my age, papier-mâché-framed portraits of family, and brightly colored vintage bulbs that all but covered the branches of her Christmas tree. How could I forget the customized mini trees crafted for each grandchild, decorated in whatever character, show or theme we were obsessed with that year? (Mine was covered in jewelry and glittery make-up-themed stickers).'

'I think the reason we are seeing a rise in whimsical, nostalgic and handmade Christmas decorations, like paper chains, vibrantly colored bows and ribbons, dried oranges and more, is that we are all yearning for that Christmas. The one(s) we remember, when all the most important people in our lives were present. A time when our troubles were truly miles away. Memories in technicolor, filled with smiles, laughter and voices we may now only be able to hear in home movies, if we were lucky enough to capture them.'

'Though we may never be able to return to that Christmas we each remember so vividly and so dearly, we can all hold the love of the season in our hearts and continue to make whimsical decorations and memories that honor our past and inspire joy for future generations,' Brie says.

4. Folk

The folk style works particularly well alongside festive decorations. Nostalgic, rustic, and reminiscent of country Christmases, its artisanal, hand-crafted feel brings a real warmth and comfort to homes.

From paper decorations to hand-painted wooden ornaments, the folk Christmas trend is centered around homemade treasures and organic materials. 'I tend to approach Christmas decorating much like I approach decorating my home throughout the year: instinctively, with a love for things that feel collected rather than coordinated,' says Martina Casonato of The Venetian Pantry. 'I'm particularly drawn to natural materials, handmade ornaments and decorations that carry a sense of nostalgia. I like things to feel a little whimsical and imperfect, as though they've been gathered over many Christmases rather than bought all at once.'

'I think there's something incredibly comforting about folk-inspired decorations. They remind us of a time when Christmas was less about creating a perfectly styled home and more about the joy of making things by hand. Materials such as straw, wicker, felt and wood bring warmth, texture and a wonderfully tactile quality to a space. I also think their appeal lies in their timelessness: these are decorations that feel just as lovely today as they might have fifty years ago, and that you can imagine passing down through generations.'

5. Kitschmas

'Kitschmas' embraces the tacky, garish accessories that defined the holidays of our childhood. From hand-blown colorful glass ornaments to playful motifs, this Christmas trend is all about decorating to the absolute excess.

'I’m all for it,' says interior designer Sean Symington. 'A touch of tacky can be wonderfully charming as it brings personality into a room and stops interiors from feeling too serious. Character is what makes a home feel so special. I’d always suggest a sprinkle of kitsch rather than going all-in. The magic is in finding the right balance and contrast. For example, our own Christmas tree is filled with the most fun little critter ornaments, along with velvet ribbons, which add a sense of whimsy. Still, because it’s just one playful element within the wider space, it feels joyful rather than overwhelming.'

The opposite of minimalism in the best possible way, this love-it-or-hate-it look transports you back to the garishness of the '80s. Think tinsel, bright colors, and themed baubles.

6. Pared-Back Minimalism

While the less-is-more approach isn't the typical mindset for festive decorating, it's perfect if you want to keep things fuss-free. Contrary to popular belief, minimalism doesn't have to feel cold and clinical; in fact, decorating with a minimalist mindset can actually make the decorations you do use feel far more impactful.

The minimalist Christmas trend blends Scandinavian design styles and modern room ideas into one. Think neutral tones and layers of soft organic textures. It's a restrained yet cozy look that builds upon the natural world. You'll find plenty of all the usual motifs in minimalist Christmas decor too, but instead of garish colors and tacky textures, these accessories embrace organic materials, from soft linens and rustic wood to hand-crafted techniques like needlepoint and embroidery.

Sparse, twig-like trees (also known as 'Charlie Brown' Christmas trees) lean into this aesthetic. They might be delicate and spindly, but they evoke a real wintry, seasonal feel that mirrors snowy landscapes. Anthropologie's illuminated alpine tree is a great example of these minimal Christmas tree styles, as is Target's Christmas Tree with Burlap Base.

Shop The Biggest Christmas Trends of 2026

These six timeless Christmas trends are expected to define the season. Each is packed with personality and creativity, and will beautifully blend into any home, of any style.

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The Christmas wreath is a classic signal of the start of the festive season; often, it's the first piece of decor to go up, adding a warm welcome to front doors and windows. And year after year, wreath designs are getting more unique and playful, so whether you like a traditional evergreen design or are looking for something chic and minimalist, this year's offerings are vast.

For a traditional Christmas decor display, you can’t go wrong with an evergreen wreath adorned with berries, pinecones, and twinkling lights, like Balsam Hill’s Vermont Spruce Wreath or Macy’s Frosted Heritage Wreath. But this year, we’re seeing a slight digression from the expected. With blue as a strong holiday color trend, brands like McGee & Co. and Crate & Barrel have embraced this icy hue in their holiday wreaths. This Flax and Cedar Wreath from Lulu and Georgia features classic shades of red and green, but the vibrant, bursting effect of its branches makes it an unconventional style that we're loving right now.

Material matters too, and while evergreen wreaths yield the most iconic holiday look, we’re seeing brands branch out this season (pun intended). Terrain’s done so with its Iron Icon Wreath, and so has Grandin Road with its Capiz Wreath. These alternative materials result in unique wreaths that can add a fresh level of visual interest to your home this holiday season.

Whether you choose a classic style, an avant-garde display, or a model with whimsical elements, all Christmas wreaths share one defining feature: they're an effortless way to spread holiday cheer anywhere around your home. Ahead, find 16 options for a festive holiday display.

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Few rooms see as many eyes as your entryway, especially at this time of year. Even guests who are just popping over to drop off some presents will get a peek, so if any room deserves a festive spruce, it's the entryway.

While this space might not have room for a full fir, there are plenty of beautiful Christmas decor ideas to add a sense of occasion. If you have a staircase, that's prime real estate for evergreen garlands and twinkly lights. A console offers a surface to style a Christmas vignette, and the walls can have a holiday makeover, too, with garlands around doorways or over pictures.

From vibrant displays that make seasonal delights the center of attention to more pared-back designs that allow entryway architecture to sing, these Christmas entryways feel enduring, festive, and, most importantly, enticing.

1. A Small Entryway That Goes Big on Greenery

Nestled in a cozy London neighborhood, this characterful entryway dons a vibrant display of lush foliage, seasonal fruit (one of this year's biggest Christmas decor themes), and a scattering of bows, beckoning you to enter and stay awhile. Its designer, Sean Symington, wanted joy and festive cheer to be the first thing you felt as you walked through the door.

'We approached this room the way we would any space in a home,' Sean explains. 'We wanted it full of little moments of joy and character, each one connected to the rest of the house and threaded throughout, while still standing confidently on its own. Christmas is the perfect excuse to lean even more into that philosophy. The hallway is the first thing anyone sees, so it should set the tone for the whole house.'

'For me, it’s about creating a sense of arrival, something abundant and joyful that hints at what’s to come in the rest of the home. I’d always err on the side of more. I love florals, greenery, and a big bow cascading down a banister or staircase, the same way I might dress the top of a Christmas tree. Above all, don’t be afraid to keep editing. Treat it like your interior: it’s never truly finished, and moving things around until it feels right is half the pleasure.'

2. A Minimalist Approach That Still Feels Inviting

Keeping it simple is often the best approach in entryways. Nothing beats a timeless display of seasonal decorations that elevate the architecture of the space without overwhelming it.

A delicate pine garland is draped around the banister of this entryway, finished with some oversized velvet bows for some drama and whimsy. It's a fail-safe formula to create that chic yet classic Ralph Lauren Christmas aesthetic. 'When decorating for the holidays, we always gravitate towards very natural and organic decorations using fresh greenery as much as possible!' explain Renee DiSanto and Christina Samatas, Principals of Park & Oak. 'We love to add festive red accents that stand out and feel very classic Christmas, and we always recommend having a pup to welcome you home!'

'For Christmas entryway decor, we always start with fresh garland draped on the staircase, accessorized with creative bows to add a pop of color, and a festive wreath on the front door. Swapping artwork for vintage holiday artwork, adding poinsettias, or changing out your branches for festive colored ones instead adds instant holiday charm to an entryway. We also love to incorporate fun Christmas lights wherever we can, and we always recommend using soft white lights.'

3. A Bold Entryway With Christmas Decor to Match

Combining entryway trends with timeless Christmas decor creates a curated balance that is playful yet still classic and enduring. While a bold wallpaper sets the tone of this eclectic entryway, the wintry foliage arrangement injects some festive spirit into the room.

'An entryway is your first opportunity to set the tone at Christmas,' explains its designer, Whitney Durham. 'This space was already full of personality with the wonderful wallpaper. So, I really wanted the Christmas decor to feel like it belonged. I enjoy mixing beautiful antiques, bold patterns, and unexpected colors. I think the holiday decorations should embrace and complement that. I kept the greenery natural and added pops of berries to bring in added color. The oversized arrangement played beautifully against the wallpaper, making the entire entryway feel festive.'

'My go-to formula is to start with what’s already there and add a little holiday magic!' Whitney adds. 'I love incorporating fresh greenery, beautiful wreaths, and statement arrangements. Christmas decorating doesn't have to mean traditional red and green. I love pulling colors from the room and letting holiday details enhance what's already there, especially when decorating with pieces I have collected over time!'

4. A Classic Staircase Elevated With Bows

Leaning into the grandeur of an entryway is the right way to introduce festivity without going overboard, particularly in period properties steeped in story and character. In this traditional entryway, that's exactly what Leoma Harper, founder of @styletheclutter, did.

'As it's the first space you see when walking through the doorway, I wanted the entryway to feel welcoming and festive, while complementing the character and existing style of our Victorian home,' she explains. 'I always start by adding and layering greenery across the staircase, mirror, and console, followed by pops of festive color through bows, paper stars, or hanging ornaments. I love to create a sense of cohesion without overcrowding the space and distracting from the architectural details.'

'I always start with greenery, building up layers to create fullness and natural movement,' Leoma says. 'I particularly like to create soft swags along the banister, securing the garland in sections before adding seasonal details, such as berries and generous bows of ribbon. I then look at the wider space, introducing complementary touches to furnishings such as the console and mirror. Then it's all about the little finishing touches, adding accessories such as lanterns and candlelight to add depth and warmth.'

5. A Grand Entry With a Luxurious Color Scheme

A wintry garland, playful bows, and warm string lights are an unbeatable combination, but for something a little punchier, going outside the box with your Christmas color scheme will make your display feel entirely unique from all the years before.

Instead of keeping things classic with a red and green scheme, metallic tones can bring real warmth and festivity to entryways, beautifully catching the low light and creating a statement that entices guests as they visit over the holidays. In this moody entryway, a copper garland contrasts with the rich wood features, dancing with the candlelit candelabra that anchors the room.

Of course, seasonal foliage makes an appearance, but it's the subtle metallic tones that make the room really sing. Combined with pops of orange, the display feels like the ultimate balance of timeless and statement.

The Festive Entryway Edit

A Christmas entryway should be two things: festive and timeless. These ideas combine both. From heritage-steeped designs that nod to traditional architecture to more striking displays that weave color and texture throughout, each idea feels unique yet classic, perfect for creating the ultimate festive welcome.

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Furniture trends are always on our radar at Homes & Gardens. While walls can easily be repainted and bedlinen or cushions switched up from season to season, furniture is a big investment that needs to stand the test of time. So when it comes to furniture trends, we’re looking for changes in furniture design that we think will last rather than the fleeting looks which come and go.

In recent years, we’ve noticed a push toward individuality, with designers and homeowners alike turning their backs on uniform, mass-produced pieces and instead embracing custom designs, quality craftsmanship, statement materials, interesting shapes, and exciting combinations. Principles of comfort, function, sustainability and quality are all being prioritized as we seek homes that both meet our needs and endure across the decades.

To discover more about how furniture is evolving, we consulted interior design experts for their insights and have rounded up the key trends set to shape furniture for 2027 and beyond.

1. Handcrafted Furniture That Suits Your Lifestyle

In recent years, we've seen a big shift in the desire for custom-made furniture. While mass-produced, off-the-shelf pieces can serve a purpose and are an affordable option, experts say demand is rising for pieces that are unique and designed around our specific lifestyles and needs.

'With so much furniture looking alike, there is a growing desire to own something that feels personal, whether that is an antique with a history, a custom upholstered chair, or a beautifully crafted piece made by hand,' explains Alexandra Azat, founder of Plaster & Patina.

Custom joinery and multifunctional, sectional pieces are proving particularly popular with those looking to maximize space and storage. Investing in custom pieces not only allows for maximum functionality, but also offers the opportunity to create unique, authentic pieces that set interiors apart from the crowd.

'The creation of this library was very deliberate and customized to the way these clients live their lives and their priorities,' explains Alexandra Azat. 'We created a library for our client's many, many books and wrapped the room in white oak built-ins stained in a rich honey-color. Because the room was long and thin, it felt a bit hallway-like, so we created deep built-in seating that boasted dense cushions to lie back and read. Before selecting a sofa or lounge chair, consider seat depth, cushion construction, arm height, and how the piece will actually be used. The most beautiful living rooms are those where people genuinely want to spend time.'

2. Collected Pieces Over Matching Sets

There was a time when the matching three-piece suite was the default, but today homeowners are pairing pieces from different styles and eras to create a more individual and playful look.

'People want their homes to feel personal and collected, not perfectly matched,’ explains Regan Baker. ‘They're choosing natural materials like wood and linen, layering texture, and mixing in heirlooms, vintage finds, and handcrafted pieces.'

This shift in furniture trends is rooted in a growing confidence with color and pattern and a desire to create homes which reflect our personalities, but it can also be attributed to the wealth of options available. But it’s not just new pieces that are being mixed and matched; homeowners are also layering these with antique, vintage and handmade pieces that have been sourced at flea markets or online.

With a wealth of online vintage shops and marketplaces such as Etsy, 1st Dibs, and Chairish, it's never been easier to find that perfect vintage piece. ‘The look is rooted in quality and in how you live, not in what's popular this season. Well-made pieces and natural materials only get better with age. I also see custom millwork as a great long-term investment,’ adds Regan Baker.

‘I love seeing furniture pieces that were either found or custom-made for the room, with old and new mixed together: an antique next to something a local maker built just for that spot. I think it's happening because people are tired of homes that look like everyone else's,’ adds Chad Dorsey.

In this scheme, Regan Baker paired two neutral sofas in different shapes with a statement ottoman, a Midcentury-style chair and a range of sculptural wooden side tables. ‘A floral ottoman picks up on our client's love of "grandma chic” and inspired the rest of the living room design to be infused with even more fun pattern,’ explains Regan. ‘The mint green Lawson Fenning accent chair introduces a brighter touch of color and leather texture. It was inspired by a photo of a vintage chair our client loved.'

3. A Focus on Textures

Statement materials and textures have really come to the fore in recent years, with pieces doubling as works of art in their own right. Whether it's decorative marble, grainy natural wood, polished chrome, or plush velvet, designers are mixing materials with interesting textures, finishes, and patterns to create interiors with unique personality.

'Textural furniture is an element you’ll find in all our recent work,' says Katie Bromley of the Bethesda, Maryland-based Spaces by Katie. 'For example, the mixture and play of burlwood and more traditional walnut used in this living room. Selecting a covering that’s more unexpected adds visual interest and a more layered, curated result.'

This shift is being driven by a desire for homes that feel more personal, comfortable, and thoughtfully curated rather than overly coordinated. Natural materials in particular continue to appeal, particularly woods with decorative grains. Investing in and layering quality materials, particularly those rooted in nature, is a great way to create timeless spaces that transcend fleeting trends.

Alongside rich warm woods, dark woods, and woods with distinctive graining, luxurious textures such as velvet, jacquards, and tapestry decor are also on the rise as homeowners seek to create cozy, layered spaces. Burnished metals also remain popular for their warm, luxe feel.

'I am starting to notice polished chromes and steels coming back into style,' says Tana Nesbitt-Hayes of Studio8 Architect. 'Think 1910s - 1920s modernism.' Layering these materials together brings confidence and intention to interior design, as well as wonderful depth.

'In an increasingly digital world, we're seeing a renewed appreciation for our connection to nature, heritage, craftsmanship, and materiality,' adds Justine Alexandra Dunk, founder of Justine Alexandra Design. 'In this bedroom, I wanted to bring warmth through texture, materials, and color. I love the contrast of the deep, earthy brown performance velvet headboard against the walnut. The nightstands are burl walnut veneer, which has such beautiful depth and natural variation. The earthy colors have a cocooning quality, creating spaces that feel inviting and enveloping – somewhere to retreat and unwind.'

4. Sinuous Curves

From pedestal dining tables to sofas and coffee tables, furniture with sinuous curves is a big trend going into 2027. 'Curved sofas are probably our biggest request,' explains Katie Bromley. 'They nearly always fit the bill for their aesthetic appeal, but also, what we love most, is the curved juxtaposition against the often-square, gridded elements in homes.'

Curves bring instant softness and are easy on the eye. On a practical level, curves help bring an easy flow to interiors. In an open-plan space, a curved sofa is a great way to gently zone a space, while in a small kitchen diner, a curved table is far easier to maneuver around than an angular one, and it's much more family-friendly, too.

When choosing curved furniture, consider leaning into the softness with tactile fabrics in warm colors, as done here by Alexandra Azat – 'We custom-designed this sofa and had it covered in Holland and Sherry wool; we wanted to play with curves to make the space feel a bit sexier and more interesting.'

5. Mid-Century Furniture

Whether authentic or reproduction, pieces from the 1940s through the 1970s remain sought after. Characterized by sleek lines and biomorphic shapes, these pieces seem to have endured over the years. Seating, in particular, is highly sought after, with authentic examples from iconic designers fetching high prices.

As well as their distinctive shapes, many designers are drawn to Mid-century pieces for their low profile and airy feel. These sleek designs tend to work particularly well in open-plan spaces as they keep sightlines clear. In recent years, 1970s designs have grown in popularity. In this project, interior designer Tana Nesbitt-Hayes centered the furniture design on an iconic reproduction of a 1970s Marenco sofa, pairing it with a pair of refurbished 1960s Adrian Pearsall lounge chairs.

‘I have been doing this for 26 years now, and I have noticed how quickly furniture trends change, especially now, so to keep longevity I lean on older designs from different eras that are still relevant because I figure if they can stay relevant for that long then my client’s home will not be passé too quickly,' explains Tana.

‘I selected these pieces mostly based on their character, and their lightness – meaning they do not take up too much space physically or visually,’ adds Tana. ‘The sofa was the anchor, so the supporting pieces had to not feel too heavy. The chairs were light in form, not too dominating and looked good from all sides - which was important because their backs face the roof terrace so they had to look good from all angles.’

6. Statement Upholstery

Increasingly, people are getting more playful with furniture, embracing bold fabrics, rich colors, and decorative materials and finishes. Statement upholstery is particularly big right now and shows no sign of fading as we seek to create homes that turn heads.

‘We’re seeing the return of beautiful upholstery, such as florals, plaids, stripes, small-scale prints, and rich colors, on sofas, sectionals, and accent chairs, as well as people looking for pieces made with quality craftsmanship (well-built frames, eight-way hand-tied springs, comfortable cushion construction, and beautiful performance fabrics) rather than quick, fast finds,’ explains Nicole Beat, lead designer at Lloyd Design Team by Decorating Den Interiors.

Chintz florals, tapestry, pleated skirts, fringing, and piping are all having a renaissance, perhaps because we're yearning for nostalgic, traditional interiors that feel comforting and layered. We're also seeing interior designers increasingly referencing the classic English country interiors, where collected chintzy furnishings and kilim-covered ottomans sit in harmony as part of schemes which have evolved over time.

'I love using banquettes because they can be both incredibly practical and a real design moment. They’re wonderful in breakfast rooms and casual dining areas, but I’ve also used them in larger living spaces to create a cozy spot for morning coffee or conversation,' says Katie Davis of Katie Davis Design. It’s an opportunity to introduce beautiful upholstery, interesting details, and a little personality, while creating a place where people genuinely want to sit and stay awhile.'

The Furniture Trend Edit

For 2027, there’s an increasing interest in furniture that is unique, custom-made, and handcrafted as people seek to create unique spaces tailored to their tastes and needs. Craftsmanship, quality materials, and sustainability are all being prioritized in a shift away from mass-produced designs.

Sectional designs and lightweight designs, including classic Mid-century pieces, are also proving popular for flexible open-plan spaces. In terms of aesthetics, decorative materials such as veined marble and grainy woods continue to shine through. Statement upholstery pieces in playful fabric choices are also on the rise as people become more confident with color and pattern and seek layered, collected spaces.

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We are always looking for fresh inspiration when it comes to decorating for Christmas, but sometimes the most interesting ideas are the ones that have been around for decades. Martha Stewart's vintage silver Christmas tree is a case in point, bringing a distinctly 1950s aesthetic back into the spotlight – and proving that a beautiful tree doesn't necessarily need a single ornament.

The lifestyle expert recently shared a glimpse of her silver aluminium tabletop tree on Instagram, a nostalgic decoration that feels particularly relevant as vintage-inspired Christmas styling continues to find its place in modern homes. On her blog, Stewart explains that aluminium Christmas trees became hugely popular during the 1950s and 1960s, with millions manufactured across the US between 1958 and 1969.

Once familiar fixtures of mid-century Christmas celebrations, these shimmering trees are enjoying renewed appreciation. Their sculptural branches, metallic finish and wonderfully nostalgic appeal make them an eye-catching alternative to more traditional evergreens. They also offer a refreshingly simple approach to decorating: rather than layering on baubles and ribbons, the tree itself becomes the focal point.

If you want to recreate the look, this silver ornamental Christmas tree from Amazon is a lovely place to start. Its reflective finish makes a statement without requiring much additional decoration, making it particularly suited to smaller spaces, sideboards and tabletop displays.

Stewart has several vintage aluminium trees in her collection, each with distinctive rosette-tipped branches. As she explains: 'I have several vintage aluminum trees of varying sizes that have branches with rosette tips. These are really pretty even without decorations, but I always prefer them with ornaments, such as these pink and bright-rose ones. The tabletop tree stands on my counter in a large, ruffled galvanized-metal tray that is filled with artificial snow and finished with a still-life scene of deer figures.'

It's an approach that captures the appeal of nostalgic Christmas decorating without feeling overly themed. And with vintage-inspired pieces continuing to influence Christmas decor trends, it's easy to see why these mid-century designs are finding a new audience.

Design expert Victoria Robinson agrees that looking to the past is an increasingly appealing way to create a more personal holiday scheme. 'Nostalgia is making a strong return for Christmas, with many looking to decorate their homes with statement pieces that evoke memories of the past.'

We've seen similar vintage-inspired decorating choices in the homes of celebrities including Kris Jenner, Jessica Chastain and Joanna Gaines, demonstrating how traditional festive details can feel fresh again when given a more considered treatment.

For anyone drawn to a more playful, maximalist Christmas decorating style, there are plenty of ways to embrace the look without completely transforming your home. You could introduce a single aluminium tree to a festive mantelpiece or console, or build a more elaborate display with several vintage-inspired pieces.

Robinson suggests starting small if a full retro scheme feels like too much. 'While a complete throwback to the 70s might not be everyone's preference, incorporating small elements like a ceramic tree to your window or mantelpiece display can add a touch of magic and sentimental value to your decorations.'

The key is to give these nostalgic pieces room to shine. Ceramic Christmas trees, vintage-inspired figurines and other characterful decorations work beautifully as standalone accents on windowsills, side tables and mantelpieces. They can also be layered with natural festive details, such as snow-dusted pinecones from Amazon, snow-dusted artificial holly branches and a traditional Norfolk pine garland from Target.

To recreate Martha Stewart's more distinctive display, consider grouping several aluminium trees together in different finishes. Her collection includes silver, bronze, and blue examples, creating a layered arrangement that feels more like a carefully curated vintage collection than a conventional Christmas tree display.

Varying the heights will help create a more interesting composition, while keeping the surrounding decorations relatively simple allows the metallic branches to take centre stage. Whether you opt for one statement tree or a collection of smaller designs, the appeal lies in choosing pieces with character rather than following a strict decorating formula.

As Martha Stewart demonstrates, sometimes the most memorable minimalist Christmas decorations don't need much embellishment. A little vintage charm can be more than enough.

Shop the Look

In most rooms, cozy little lamps and warmer bulb temperatures quickly lift the darker fall evenings, but the fix isn't quite so easy in a kitchen, where so many lighting options need to be wired in. However, as the trend for portable lighting grows, so do the number of options and the versatility of designs, and we are now seeing chic plug-in and rechargeable lights that mean you can add these soft, warm pockets of light to your kitchen without having to call the electrician.

There are plenty of beautiful portable kitchen lamps that are ideal for adding a glow to countertops, but wire-free sconces have a more permanent look and can add more than just ambience to your kitchen lighting scheme. There can still be a touch of DIY to attach the light to the wall (usually a couple of screws), and you will need to install them near existing outlets, but it's far simpler and much cheaper than running new cables through the walls.

Plug-in designs have become far chicer in the last few years – Lulu and Georgia's Maisano Plug-In Sconce brings a vintage-style elegance to a cooking space, while Rejuvenation's Alpen Articulating Sconce adds a rustic texture to the kitchen. And if you're worried about the cords looking messy on the walls, you can even get really elevated Cord Stays to keep them tidy.

The best part? No professional installation needed. Here are 20 elevated designs to add a warmer, cozier layer of lighting to your kitchen in time for the holidays.

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Rustic doesn’t have to mean rough around the edges. In this Swiss chalet, Linda Boronkay took the familiar language of alpine design – timber, texture, and the ritual of gathering around the fire – and reinterpreted it without the usual clichés. The result is what Linda describes as ‘contemporary alpine living with soul’: a timeless rather than trend-driven space designed for coming together, slowing down, and reconnecting.

The room’s greatest transformation isn’t visible: long before selecting fabrics and finishes, she completely removed the boundaries between the kitchen, dining, and living areas to create an interior that feels far more fluid. ‘Mountain homes have a very different rhythm from city living, and we wanted the interior to reflect that,’ says Linda. ‘The vision was always to create a space that encourages people to slow down.’

Rather than designing a formal living room, she reimagined the ‘rituals that would take place there’ – returning from skiing, gathering around the fire, reading, sharing meals, and having conversations. ‘Everything was designed to encourage those moments,’ she explains. ‘Comfort became just as important as aesthetics.’

Having opened everything up, Linda needed something to bring the newly connected areas together. ‘The fireplace became the emotional heart of the room,’ she says. Clad in glossy, chocolate-brown tiles that catch the changing mountain light, it serves as both the visual and social anchor of the space. Rather than orienting the seating toward a television, it’s arranged from several directions, allowing everyone to stay connected to both the conversation and the fire.

The chalet’s original timber, meanwhile, is treated less as a feature than as a foundation. Rich in warmth and patina, it wraps the room from floor to ceiling, yet never feels overwhelming, thanks to Linda’s decision not to compete with it.

‘It already carried so much warmth and character,’ she explains. ‘Instead, we treated it as the architectural backdrop,’ introducing clean lines, softer silhouettes, and carefully considered materials to create balance. ‘Contemporary design doesn’t mean removing character,’ she says. ‘It means allowing traditional materials to breathe by surrounding them with restraint rather than decoration.’

The key is contrast. Rich, tactile materials such as linen, bouclé, and glossy tile help ‘create relief’ and soften the expanse of wood. ‘If every surface shares the same texture and tone, a room can quickly feel visually heavy,’ says Linda.

The same sense of restraint extends to the color palette. But rather than defaulting to neutrals, Linda chose ‘confident colors’ that would complement the timber rather than compete with it. Inspired by the surrounding landscape, she selected deep forest greens, warm ochres, burnt oranges, and rich burgundies to ‘capture the richness and vibrancy of mountain life,’ layering in textiles and artwork that create ‘moments of surprise and delight.’

Nothing competes for attention in this scheme. Pattern is introduced sparingly – ‘some are more graphic, while others almost disappear into the texture’ – while shelves are styled with a collector’s eye, and moments of negative space allow everything to breathe.

‘I like leaving negative space,’ Linda says of her approach to styling. ‘It makes objects feel far more considered and allows each piece to be appreciated in its own right.’

For Linda, however, the room’s greatest achievement isn’t any single piece of furniture or dramatic design gesture, but its overall composition and rhythm. ‘A great deal of time was spent refining proportions and sightlines,’ she explains. These are the invisible design decisions that quietly do the heavy lifting, creating a room that instantly puts you at ease.

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While the fir gets all the fanfare, the first real sign of the festive season might be happening upstairs, as everyday sheets give way to something a little more special. While your tree twinkles elsewhere, fuzzy flannels and heirloom prints you only wish you'd inherited keep the comfort close and offer a little more to dream about.

Always charming, but for 2026, Christmas bed sheets might be… cooler than usual. Brooklinen, despite dominating the bedding space since 2014, has only just launched its first-ever holiday capsule, featuring a very New York-in-winter take on classic toile, emblazoned with an Empire State Building-dotted skyline and a towering Rockefeller Center spruce. H&M Home’s Holiday 2026 collection invites mountain-cabin, après-chic minimalism inside with old-timey trains and warming, yarn-dyed flannel micro-checks. Meanwhile, Hill House Home’s once-summery Williams Sonoma collaboration gets a second coming for the season, dressed in romantic block prints, evergreen forest quilting, and scalloped-flange shams, custom-embroidered in a holiday-ready flash of red.

If you don’t have tiny bows and berries crawling along your quilt, is it really Christmas? Whether you’re scouting a whole new sheet set or a pillow that could have been plucked from a Scandi winter cottage, these holiday bedding finds are the easiest way to make your bedroom feel a little more like Christmas morning, every morning.

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When my husband and I bought our first real home 12 years ago, one of the things I was most excited about was hosting Thanksgiving. I loved the idea of cooking for everyone, but I was even more interested in setting the table. Even in my 20s, I had already started collecting vintage china and glassware with the hope of one day putting it all to use.

Since then, we’ve hosted most of my family’s Thanksgivings. I still look forward to it every year, but the way I set my Thanksgiving table has become much more streamlined. Twelve years ago, there were six of us. Now, with new spouses and seven kids added to the mix, efficiency matters a little more.

That doesn’t mean I set the same table every year or sacrifice style for simplicity. I’ve just landed on a formula that works: easy enough to repeat, flexible enough to change, and polished without requiring me to reinvent the whole thing every November. These days, I start with a few dependable elements, then layer in just enough variation to make the table feel fresh.

My Go-To Thanksgiving Table Setting Formula

I've tried a variety of Thanksgiving table themes and schemes over the years, and I've learned some things about myself along the way. Namely, that I'm not particularly talented at arranging flowers for a centerpiece, and I do not like to hand-wash piles of dishes after cooking and hosting all day. Those realizations have shaped the way I set the table now. Here's the formula I now use to set my table each Thanksgiving.

Forgo Flowers for a Greenery Garland

Since flower arrangements aren't my natural forte, I now do a greenery garland in the center of the table instead. I love it because it's easy to make, even if you’re not an aspiring florist; plus it won’t block your view of the person sitting across from you, and it still creates a beautiful visual impact. I start with magnolia leaves, which I buy from a florist or grocery store (Trader Joe’s is usually a reliable source around the holidays, if you live near one). I like the mix of green and brown, which sets a natural palette for the rest of the table, and the sturdy leaves make an easy base for layering in other greenery, like evergreen or myrtle.

I usually skip floral wire altogether and simply arrange the stems directly on the table. To finish it off, I’ll add jeweled fruit, pumpkins or gourds, along with a mix of candlesticks and tapers (I've been thinking of switching to flameless tapers this year!).

Dress Up Dishwasher-Safe Plates

I’ve mostly retired my vintage dinner plates from family Thanksgiving. As lovely as they are, many need to be hand-washed, and I’d much rather spend the post-dinner hours by the fire with everyone than standing at the sink. Some of the tableware I use when I host Thanksgiving still requires a hand-wash, but ensuring the dinner plates can be popped in the dishwasher significantly lightens the load of cleaning up.

Now I use simple, dishwasher-safe china dinner plates (my favorite are these Lenox ones) for the main meal. To make them feel more special, I layer them over charger plates, or add a smaller vintage plate on top for bread or salad, or even just for looks. That’s usually where I play with the color scheme from year to year. Sometimes I go with the blue-and-white transferware I used on that first Thanksgiving we hosted; other years, it's the gold-rimmed plates from my grandmother’s collection, or a set of orange-and-yellow florals I picked up at a thrift store.

Let the Linens Be a Background

For linens, I like to stick with a solid tablecloth so the rest of the tablescape pops. Then I mix in patterned or solid napkins, sometimes both, depending on the plates and whatever colors I’ve chosen that year.

Before setting the table, I give the linens a quick iron or steam so they feel fresh again. I’ll usually secure the napkins with simple napkin rings or a length of velvet ribbon, then tuck in a small sprig of greenery from the garland. Sometimes I’ll swap that for another natural detail, like a feather or extra herb stems we don't need for dinner.

Save the Fancy Pieces for Glassware and Flatware

I remember hearing when I was younger that things like crystal glassware, sterling silver flatware, and formal serving pieces were becoming irrelevant as entertaining has gotten more casual. I've collected them over the years anyway. I’ve always loved the idea of having a few things that only come out for holidays and special occasions, and Thanksgiving is exactly when I want to use them.

One of my favorite examples is a set of crystal glassware that lives in the corner hutch in our dining room and comes out for holidays and dinner parties. I inherited it from an aunt who moved South and didn’t want to take it with her, and I love that it now has a second life at our table.

Shop My Thanksgiving Table Essentials

What I like about this formula is that it gives me enough structure that I don’t have to reinvent the table every year, while still leaving room to make it feel a bit different.

The greenery, white dinner plates, and simple linens are the foundation, while the vintage plates, chargers, napkins, candles, and smaller decorative pieces are where I can change things up. Most of it is already tucked away in my dining room cabinets, collected from various sources over years rather than bought for one particular Thanksgiving.

This balance has become more important as the number of people around our table grows. I still want Thanksgiving to feel special and considered, but I’ve learned that it doesn’t have to be complicated to get there.

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For Beth Dotolo, the desire to create beautiful spaces began with a feeling of not having one. Growing up between two homes after her parents separated, she developed an early sense of displacement – and, eventually, a determination to create the sense of place she had been missing.

That instinct now sits at the heart of her work at Pulp Design Studios, the Seattle-based practice she founded with Carolina V. Gentry in 2007. Known for colorful, eclectic interiors that are deeply rooted in their occupants’ stories, Beth explains in the latest installment of our Layered Lives series how she believes the best spaces should do more than look good: they should make you feel something.

Her own home, once a painted fuchsia apartment, is now a burgundy-hued family home with a memory-filled collection of art and objects from her travels. And in her new book, co-authored with Carolina, Fearless Design, she makes the case for taking risks, embracing the personal, and, above all, creating homes that reflect the people who live in them.

Homes & Gardens: Where do you think your love of design comes from?

Beth Dotolo: In hindsight, my parents split when I was six months old, and I grew up never really having a home base. My mom lived in a different state from my dad, and my time was split between the two. When I was home with my mom, I never felt like I was there long enough to make my room my own, and when I was at my dad's, I was bunking in with my stepsister. I had a real sense of displacement, which then turned into a yearning to create a sense of place and space and anchor myself to my environment as I got older. The good thing is that now I can create a sense of space no matter where I am.

Homes & Gardens: Were your parents creative? Did that gene rub off on you at all?

Beth Dotolo: Not in the least! My mom was a psychologist, and my dad worked in road construction. My own internal desire to create comes from my love of using both the left and right sides of my brain, of being creative while also digging deep into the technical.

Homes & Gardens: So, at what point did you start to think design could be a career for you?

Beth Dotolo: My job in high school was working for a home goods store, and I grew with them. By the time I was 17, I had become their regional display specialist and was creating their window displays. And they were always perfection! That's where I learned how to piece things together visually and make things work, and that's when I decided to go to design school.

Homes & Gardens: At this point, you possibly had your own home for the first time. How were you decorating it?

Beth Dotolo: Oh, wildly! I painted my entire apartment fuchsia in 2005. I had graduated from design school, and I just went all crazy. I had just started working at the interior design firm where I met Carolina [V. Gentry, now Beth's co-founder at Pulp Design Studios]. I wanted to make a statement in every project I did, and she said it always ended up looking like a nightclub. My work always had to reflect the client, so at home, I wanted to make a big bang and explore my own style. Why be boring?!

Homes & Gardens: At what point did you and Carolina decide to set up your own studio?

Beth Dotolo: We did a terrible install at the firm we were working at, and we were sitting at a stoplight, going, "What are we doing?" We believed in our talent, so we decided to do our own thing. I immediately went home and started buying up URLs and brainstorming company names. This was back in 2007, and we both still had jobs but started taking on clients. I transitioned to working full time on our own thing after a couple of years, and then it got busier, so I told Carolina she had to come on full time, too. Knowing now how reserved she is, I really respect her bravery in just jumping in with me.

Homes & Gardens: What sort of projects were you getting in the early days?

Beth Dotolo: People were asking if we could do their whole house for $5,000, and we were like, "Sure! I mean, it's not possible, but we will do our best!" We did some construction jobs that were great for our portfolios and just worked hard at it. Neither of us came from money, so we didn't have that as a cushion, nor did we have a wealthy social circle to use as a source of clients. We had to build trust and rely on referrals. And we did that by being super professional and super good at our jobs.

Homes & Gardens: Are there any projects that felt like a bit of a turning point?

Beth Dotolo: There are two projects that stand out. The Glass House was a new construction project on the water here in Seattle, and it felt like a big deal for us to get it. The client really resonated with our use of color and put a lot of trust in us, which we were really grateful for, and they ended up referring us to a ton of friends and family. Then we did the Kips Bay Show House in 2021 and got a lot of notice from that. Our design was all very weird and wicked, with snakes and tarot cards, and it was an opportunity for us to do a lot of storytelling.

Homes & Gardens: Storytelling is key in your work. How do you begin to build that narrative?

Beth Dotolo: Ultimately, we want every project to feel deeply personal, so we ask how they want to feel in the room. At the Glass House, he said he wanted to feel "unrestrained," which was an unexpected word, and we thought that was so deep and so cool. To honor that, we chose dining chairs in lots of different colors, art that was unframed and had loose edges, and that sort of thing. Most people tend to ask for something relaxing!

Homes & Gardens: Do you feel like your style has evolved since you began?

Beth Dotolo: Oh, absolutely. I regularly take projects off our website that no longer feel like us! I mean, the focal wall! I remember painting the wall a different color and thinking it looked so great, but not painting the ceiling. Now, I will always paint all the walls. Otherwise, it just looks unfinished.

Homes & Gardens: And presumably your own home is no longer fuchsia?

Beth Dotolo: I've matured to burgundy now. My home office is a wine-colored room, and my personal style is based very much on ideas I've collected over the years. Every project influences me somehow, and because of that, I've become more eclectic.

Homes & Gardens: What role do you want your home to play in your life now?

Beth Dotolo: I need my home to stimulate me. I want to be able to look at memories and pieces of art and smile. I sit around my home now and just smile. I have a tiny rubber duck on a pedestal by my TV and think about the trip I was on when I got it. All throughout my house are things I picked up on my travels that remind me of milestones and moments. Of course, things have to be beautiful, but they have to have a memory attached to them, too.

Homes & Gardens: You've said that the best design comes from solving a specific problem rather than applying a cookie-cutter style. What are the problems you find most interesting to solve?

Homes & Gardens: And now your new book, Fearless Design, has just been published. What do you hope people will take from it?

Beth Dotolo: When we started writing this book, we wanted people to take more risks and to encourage them to be vulnerable enough to do that. You can't just design for durability or take a cookie-cutter approach. Every space needs to be personal and reflect your culture and your story. Live fearlessly, fill your home with stuff you like, and find a way to make it work. Some people say, "Oh, I can't have that because my kids are young and will mess it up. I'll wait until they're older." But I have a green velvet sofa, kids, and a dog, so I made sure it was bleach-cleanable. Take risks, be fearless, and you'll make your home more beautiful.

From a fuchsia apartment to a burgundy home filled with memories, Beth Dotolo’s own spaces have always been an expression of who she is. But her philosophy goes deeper than color or style. For Dotolo, good design is about creating a space that feels uniquely yours – a place to take risks, tell your story, and ultimately feel at home.

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Timeless, livable, and always reliable, whites, beiges, and creams outlive fleeting trends because they seamlessly blend into every setting, of every size and style. There's a reason the majority of the most searched-for paints are neutral – despite color trends encouraging us to be braver with darker, bolder, brighter hues – a classic neutral paint will always have its place. But where do you start when choosing the best neutral paint? Consult the most popular picks from the most iconic brands. We asked designers and Sherwin-Williams color consultants which neutrals always come out on top and have been bestsellers for decades.

Sherwin-Williams' Best Neutral Paints

'Neutral shades consistently rank among the most sought-after colors at Sherwin-Williams, offering homeowners a versatile foundation that complements a variety of design aesthetics,' Emily Kantz, Color Marketing Manager at Sherwin-Williams, tells Homes & Gardens. 'Pure White SW 7005 continues to be a leading favorite, along with Alabaster SW 7008, Agreeable Gray SW 7029, and Accessible Beige SW 7036. These enduring favorites offer a balance of warmth, versatility, and timeless style, making them reliable choices for creating spaces that feel both welcoming and effortlessly sophisticated.'

1. Greek Villa SW 7551

First on the list is a sunny white paint designed to bring life to every home. Named after the sun-bleached facades of Greek architecture, this classic white paint is a favorite for a reason.

'Greek Villa has a beautiful warmth that makes it incredibly versatile,' says interior designer Marie Flanigan. 'It feels soft and inviting without reading too yellow or creamy, and it responds beautifully to natural light throughout the day. I actually used Greek Villa throughout my own home because it creates such a lovely, cohesive backdrop while allowing the architecture, furnishings, and collected pieces to shine.'

'I love pairing Greek Villa with natural materials that bring depth and character to a space,' Marie explains. 'Rich wood tones, antique brass, natural stone, and textiles with beautiful texture all complement its warmth. I also think contrast is important, whether through darker furnishings, a moody accent color, or an antique with a wonderful patina. These layers keep a predominantly white space from feeling flat or overly pristine.'

'I'm always drawn to using white in ways that celebrate architectural detail. Rather than introducing several competing colors, consider carrying the same white across walls, trim, and even ceilings, allowing subtle shifts in sheen to create dimension. I also love the idea of pairing white walls with more expressive elements, like richly stained millwork, decorative plaster, or beautifully detailed upholstery. It's a wonderful way to create a fresh, timeless foundation while still giving a room a distinct personality.'

2. Alabaster SW 7008

A bright yet warm neutral paint with a long-standing reputation, one of Sherwin-Williams' most popular shades is Alabaster.

'Alabaster is a color I’ve been specifying in several upcoming projects,' interior designer Tama Bell says. 'Brighter than Creamy, it has a quiet elegance that feels both warm and clean. I especially love it behind rich browns and reds: its understated character lets these deeper, more dramatic colors stand out. Its balance of crispness and warmth makes it ideal for traditional interiors.'

'Alabaster’s bright, crisp white also works beautifully in modern interiors without feeling stark,' Tama adds. 'I especially love pairing it with blues and greens, leaning into a natural palette that feels like letting the outdoors in.'

'I know white can sometimes be dismissed as boring, but I see it differently. White is a classic for a reason. When carried across walls, ceilings, and trim, it creates a seamless, considered backdrop that feels both timeless and distinctly modern. Sometimes, the simplest choices make the strongest statement.'

3. Agreeable Gray SW 7029

A gray paint with a beige undertone, this warm, comforting gray hue couldn't be more enduring. It combines the best of both worlds into one timeless hue that works in any setting. 'For folks that prefer some coolness in the color or have adjoining rooms that are gray it’s a wonderful choice bridging the gap and bringing in a bit of warmth,' says Monica Stewart, founder of The Misfit House.

Agreeable Gray is the flexible paint color that brings depth and subtle richness without shouting too loudly. While cool-toned grays can feel clinical, this brown-infused neutral couldn't be further from cold. More vibrant hues may be replacing gray in 2026, but for schemes that still crave gentle calm, Agreeable Gray is a clever choice.

'In 2026, we're seeing neutrals used in more intentional and layered ways, moving beyond traditional white walls to create spaces with greater depth and personality,' says Emily. 'One approach is tonal layering, pairing varying shades of warm whites, beiges, and greiges throughout a room to create subtle contrast and dimension. Homeowners can also experiment with color drenching, carrying a single neutral across walls, trim and ceilings for a cohesive, immersive look.'

'Incorporating different finishes and natural materials like wood, stone, and textured fabrics can further enhance the warmth and richness of a neutral palette,' she adds. 'The key is to treat neutrals as an active part of the design rather than simply a backdrop, allowing them to bring character and visual interest to a space.'

4. Accessible Beige SW 7036

Instead of yellow undertones, Accessible Beige is unique in its subtle gray hue. A mix of brown and gray, it has a similar composition to Agreeable Gray, with a decidedly warmer feel.

'The beauty of neutral paint colors lies in their ability to create a timeless backdrop while allowing homeowners to express their personal style,' Emily explains. 'Shades like Alabaster and Accessible Beige offer a softness and warmth that make spaces feel inviting without overwhelming the room.'

A timeless paint color loved for its 'accessibility', this gray-meets-brown pairs beautifully with modern and heritage design styles. 'Their versatility also allows them to complement a wide range of design styles, furnishings and materials, making it easy to refresh a space over time without having to completely rethink the color palette,' Emily adds. 'As homeowners continue to prioritize comfort and personalization, these adaptable shades provide the perfect foundation for a home that feels both current and enduring.'

5. Creamy SW 7012

Cream paints are loved for their warmth compared to starker, brighter white paints. Creamy, one of Sherwin-Williams' most popular warm-toned whites, is the perfect middle ground between subtle and still enriching and warm.

'This is my current favorite,' says Tama. 'Creamy is a soft, warm off-white that strikes just the right balance – and has a bit of a buttery feel without being too yellow. One of the things I love most about this color is its versatility. It feels equally at home in a space filled with natural light or in a room that gets very little. It’s a beautiful, dependable backdrop that makes a home feel warm and inviting without overwhelming the space.'

Paired with organic greens or dark wood tones, Creamy comes to life. In this cozy bedroom (pictured above), the green headboard and vintage furniture create contrast against the neutral paint, giving it an even more characterful, comforting feel.

6. Natural Choice 7011

'Natural Choice is another favorite', Tama says. 'This one leans a little more toward taupe, giving it a subtle sophistication that works beautifully in open, contemporary spaces. It still has that warmth and creamy quality I love, but with a slightly cooler undertone that feels fresh and modern.'

While Natural Choice, Agreeable Gray, and Accessible Beige all share common ground, what sets them apart is their undertone. Natural Choice has stony, sandy undertones that make it feel a little gentler compared to the richer beiges. It works well in rooms blessed with daylight, bringing just the right amount of warmth to make a big room feel cozy, while also breathing life and brightness into small rooms that need a lighter paint choice.

'It’s a wonderful option when you want a neutral that feels soft and inviting while still keeping things clean and current,' Tama adds.

Bold, vibrant tones might be ruling color trends, but there will always be a place for warm, inviting neutrals that make every home feel sophisticated and classic. From sandy beiges that provide gentle depth to off-whites with the right amount of yellow, these six shades are loved by designers for a reason.

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Nancy Meyers enthusiasts, rejoice: old-fashioned details like pleats, frills, and their ultimate archetype, ‘granny-chic’ slipcovers, are going absolutely nowhere as a living room furniture trend in 2027.

Nearly three years into their resurrection, there’s an argument to be made that, like bell-bottoms of the ’70s or monochrome minimalism of the ’90s, these easygoing, fabric-clad couches might be a forever thing. Few brands do deliciously ‘dated’ quite like Anthropologie, whose sprawling, vine-covered Felicity Sectional seats six on deep, feather-blend cushions. Or Joon Loloi, with the softly sweeping curves of the Coralee Slipcover Sofa looking even calmer in Luster Ocean Velvet, a nod to the splashy, country-club-cool Tiffany-blue color trend washing over interiors right now. And in a rare instance where spending less might actually buy you more style, Wade Logan’s under-$700 Wimberly blue-striped Farmhouse Slipcovered Sofa at Wayfair could give Erica Barry’s Hamptons living room in Something’s Gotta Give (2003) a run for its money.

They’re unfussy, comfortable, and full of character. If you’re in the market for a new sofa to marry, there’s something to be said for one with a little history. Shop the seats we keep coming back to.

The Cut is all about Homes & Gardens helping you invest in pieces that feel current now, but won’t date as trends shift. Finds that elevate a room today and still feel right years from now. Whether it’s a sculptural accent chair or a chic pendant light, our editors will curate an edit that balances style, longevity, and quality. Consider this your shortcut to smart, beautiful shopping.

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The past year has been one of the most exciting for kitchens, especially when it comes to color. Rich, moody hues from burgundy to chocolate brown, and various wood tones have dominated, encouraging homeowners to be a little more experimental rather than playing it safe. But designers say it's time to start looking at new colors, and there are a few they are secretly wishing their clients would go for more often.

It's not because these kitchen colors are going out of style, but there's definitely space in designs right now for less expected palettes that feel unique and unexpected. It could be switching out rich browns for lighter tones, or replacing colors we have already seen a lot of with muddier, earthier versions. These are the seven shades they're placing under the spotlight, and how to bring them into your kitchen tastefully and timelessly.

1. Muddier Shades of Yellow

Butter yellow kitchens have made a mark on the design world this year. Soft, light, and utterly charming, it's a color that brings unexpected softness to a hardworking cooking space. But it's not the only shade that brings warmth to kitchens – and designers say it's time to start looking to muddier yellows.

'I’d love to see more of a faded straw or parchment yellow in kitchens. It’s a very gentle, almost aged-looking color that brings wonderful warmth to a space without dominating it. I’m always interested in colors with a little complexity, rather than feeling too clean or predictable. This kind of muted, earthy yellow has a quiet character to it and can work beautifully in both contemporary and more traditional spaces, bringing warmth and personality without feeling overly bold,' explains interior designer Laura Stephens.

Following that aged, earthy style, several designers are also wishing for more ochre color schemes in 2027. 'I love a yellow with some dirt in it. Out here in the desert, the landscape is all dusty ochres, weathered browns and sun-faded earth, and golden ochre has that same quality: the warmth of yellow without the sunshiny Brady Bunch hyper-cheerfulness. It feels familiar without looking like a period reproduction, and I’d love to see more people take a chance on it,' explains John Maloney McNamara of Coosa.

'I would love to see more kitchens embracing yellow-based browns – those wonderful earthy shades somewhere between cinnamon, caramel and ochre,' agrees Melissa Hutley, Co-Founder of Hutley & Humm. 'They are often overlooked in favor of safer neutrals or more familiar greens, but they have such warmth and depth. They feel grounded and timeless, but can also be surprisingly fresh when paired with the right materials. We used a rich caramel shade (Caddie) in a recent project, and it completely transformed what could otherwise have been a purely functional space into somewhere with real character.'

Decorating with muddier yellows proves incredibly versatile. For something classic, ochre cabinets with warm white walls feel elegant and inviting, while a space color-drenched in a muddier tone creates a bold, playful scheme without ever feeling trend-led. It's also a color palette you can introduce through textiles, like a kitchen towel, rug, or even upholstered seating.

2. More Complex Blues

While blue kitchens have been popular this year, designs have been embracing moodier, inkier shades. They might work beautifully in many spaces, but designers are ready for brighter, lighter tones to make a comeback in kitchens.

'I love sky blue,' says interior designer Lizzie Green, who is keen to see this shade grow in popularity again. 'I feel like trends pull people into the safer navy territory, and there are so many incredible, braver blue shades that still give that feeling of serenity and calm.'

And even if sky blue feels a bit bold for your style, dustier blues are an alternative that still feels a little lighter, but with a more muted finish. 'For the more traditionalist, we would love to see more dusty blue or chambray colored kitchens. The southern hospitality that just spills from a soft blue kitchen is unmatched. It’s welcoming, cheerful, and pairs well with a light, bright home. We would drench the cabinets in the color since it is natural-adjacent; the more, the merrier,' says Sarah Fontanez of Pomme House.

'I’d love to see more of a dusty, slightly faded blue-gray in kitchens. Blue is a familiar choice, but I think we often gravitate towards either very pale blues or much stronger navy shades,' agrees Laura. 'A softer, more muted blue has a lovely depth to it and feels a little less expected. It can be calming without feeling cold, particularly when you bring in warmer tones and plenty of texture.'

If filling your kitchen with blue feels a little bold or overwhelming, smaller infusions feel just as stylish. 'I would use it on kitchen cabinetry, perhaps pairing it with warm off-white walls, natural timber and stone to stop the overall scheme feeling too cool,' says Laura. 'I also love the idea of bringing in small touches of a contrasting color through fabrics, artwork or a patterned blind, so the blue becomes part of a wider palette rather than the only point of interest.'

3. Rusty Reds

Burgundy and oxblood are perhaps the most coveted kitchen color trends of the past year, and show no signs of falling out of favor. While there's still a place for these richer, moodier tones, designers are ready for a greater variety of reds to be used in designs, particularly rustier reds with a bit of age to them.

'I’d love to see more kitchens using a muted, rust-red brown – something closer to the color of oxidized iron than a traditional red. It has warmth and depth, but feels more unusual and nuanced than the burgundies and deeper reds we’ve seen a lot of recently,' says Sophie Pringle, Founder of Pringle & Pringle.

'It’s a sophisticated color because it has an earthy quality that sits naturally alongside timber, stone and aged metal. I think people can sometimes be hesitant about using red in a kitchen, but when you move away from anything too bright and choose a more complex, brown-based shade, it can feel surprisingly timeless.'

It's the sort of color that adds a charming warmth when introduced in smaller doses, or creates a bold and beautiful scheme when used more confidently. 'I’d consider using it on an island or lower cabinetry, perhaps against softer, chalky walls and a natural stone countertop. It would also be beautiful alongside a characterful timber, particularly one with a darker or more expressive grain, with aged brass or bronze hardware to bring out its warmth,' Sophie adds.

'I’d be careful not to make everything too coordinated; the color is most interesting when it sits alongside materials with their own character and variation. For a more confident scheme, you could carry it onto the walls or pantry joinery, but I’d always consider the light in the room and the surrounding finishes before deciding how much to use.'

4. Olive-Toned Wood Stains

If you want to design a classic kitchen, wood cabinets are always a timeless choice. There's been a lot of conversation about the finish, from white oak to richer, darker tones, but in 2027, designers are ready for clients to choose more colorful stains, with olive green at the very top of the wishlist.

'I’d love to see more kitchens embracing colored timber, particularly wood stained in an earthy olive green. Rather than covering the surface with paint, staining allows the natural grain and character of the wood to remain visible, while introducing a layer of nuanced color. Olive is a particularly lovely shade for this because it has an earthy quality that works beautifully with natural stone, warmer woods and softer neutral tones. It feels unexpected without being overly bold, and brings color into a kitchen in a way that still celebrates the material itself,' says Sophie.

'I'd look at using an olive stain on an island or a run of timber cabinetry, allowing the grain to show through and giving the wood a slightly more individual, layered quality. It works beautifully with lighter stone countertops and warm, natural finishes, as well as darker timber elsewhere in the scheme. I think it’s important not to make the stain too uniform or opaque; the beauty is in the variation of the grain and how the color settles into the wood. It’s a lovely alternative to painted cabinetry if you want to introduce color but retain the warmth, texture, and character of natural timber.'

5. Softer, Muted Shades of Purple

Purple has long been a controversial color in interiors, but plums and aubergines have been slowly emerging following the burgundy trend. As the taste for purple kitchens returns, designers are hoping for more muted shades, whether it's a softer take on plum tones or lighter shades, like lavender and mauve.

'Smoky lavender is a color I secretly wish more clients would choose. I’m thinking of a soft, gray-brown lavender rather than anything too sweet or pastel. It has the quietness of a neutral but brings so much more personality to the kitchen, and it shifts beautifully throughout the day as the light changes. I’d introduce it on the cabinetry, either throughout the kitchen with a simple door style or just on the island, then pair it with creamy stone, warm oak, and aged brass so it feels layered and sophisticated rather than overly colorful,' says Rayana Schmitz, Founder and Principal Designer of Firefinish Interiors.

Even shades of purple with a bit more depth work in this palette. 'I would love to see more clients choose a soft, muted plum for their kitchen cabinetry. Not a bright purple, but a plum with a little gray and brown in it. It’s warm and rich, and depending on the light, it can almost read as a neutral. This color reminds me of the beautiful, layered interiors you see in older British homes,' says interior designer Tanya Smith-Shiflett.

'I’d love more clients to consider a muted plum,' adds Melissa Selvaggio of Melissa’s Designs & Co. 'Something with a little brown in it, almost the color of a ripe fig. It has the richness people love in a dark kitchen, but there’s a softness and warmth that makes it feel inviting. It adds a little spice while still acting as a neutral, which makes it surprisingly easy to pair with so many different woods, stones, and metal finishes.'

6. Unexpected Brown Tones

Brown kitchens might not sound new or unexpected, but the shades designers want to see more of in 2027 lean lighter and more complex than the richer chocolate tones of recent trends. Look to natural materials and landscapes for inspiration – colors inspired by the outdoors will never feel dated.

'I would love to see more clients consider brown for kitchens, particularly the warmer, complex browns: tobacco, chestnut, and cognac. Brown has often been treated as something that happens naturally through wood, but I think it deserves to be considered as a color in its own right. We shouldn't need wood to use brown. I would happily specify one of these rich browns as a paint color for cabinetry,' says interior designer Blair Burton.

'I'm really into brown painted cabinetry, which feels a little unexpected because you could just use a stain. But there's something about brown, and not just a true brown or a chocolate brown, but browns with undertones: green brown, red brown, even plum brown. Those are some really interesting colors that I feel could be really cute in kitchens,' says Kelsey McGregor, Founder & Principal Designer at Kelsey Leigh Design Co.

7. Warm Orange Hues

It's been a while since orange kitchens have trended. It's a bold color that can feel rather daunting to decorate a cooking space, especially as a room that's not as easy to repaint. But with terracotta kitchens falling back into favor, designers say it's time for bolder shades to make a comeback, too.

'Persimmon. A deep orange with red in it, like the fruit in late autumn. Clients are afraid of orange. They picture something loud. But a true persimmon is rich and grown up. It glows at night, flatters skin, and makes every meal look better. Fashion has trusted orange as a signature for decades. Kitchens never have,' says interior designer Vanessa Katzen.

'It's such a playful color, so she recommends getting creative with how you use it in a kitchen. 'In lacquer, on an island or a bank of lower cabinets, against a quiet room,' she suggests. 'Pale plaster walls, a creamy honed limestone, oiled walnut, and dark bronze hardware. The persimmon becomes the room's focal point. For a bolder client, run it floor to ceiling in a pantry so it is a discovery behind a door.'

It's clear to see why designers want to see more of these kitchen colors in 2027 – they feel more unique and unexpected after trends filled with lots of similar shades. You don't have to fully commit to any of these hues, either. A few decorative pieces in a bold color can instantly transform a kitchen.

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When decorating a Christmas tree, it's easy to focus on the ornaments, lights, and finishing touches, but what sits beneath the branches deserves a little consideration, too. A tree stand isn't exactly the prettiest part of a holiday display, and a well-chosen tree collar is a lovely way to conceal it while making the whole arrangement feel more considered.

I've recently bought a Rattan Christmas Tree Collar from Amazon, and it's made me appreciate just how much this simple addition can elevate the finished look. So, when I spotted ALDI's new collection, I was immediately drawn to it.

The retailer's Merry Moments collection includes tree collars in rattan, seagrass, and water hyacinth, each bringing a different natural texture to the base of the tree. My favorite is the Rattan Scallop Tree Collar, priced at just $16.99. Its gently curved edge gives a fresh take on the traditional Christmas tree skirt, adding a decorative detail that feels both current and timeless.

Scalloped edges have been appearing across interiors, from lampshades and upholstery to decorative accessories and tableware. There's something about the soft, undulating shape that makes even the simplest pieces feel a little more special. Here, it gives the natural rattan a softer, more decorative finish, without making the tree feel overly dressed.

I particularly like the use of woven materials for Christmas decorating. Rattan, seagrass, and water hyacinth bring warmth and texture to a room, which can be especially welcome when introducing seasonal decorations. They work beautifully alongside natural foliage, wooden accents, linen ribbons, and softer metallic finishes, making them a good fit for everything from a traditional Christmas scheme to a more relaxed, neutral palette.

A tree collar also helps to give the Christmas tree a stronger visual foundation. Rather than leaving the stand exposed or relying on a fabric skirt to cover it, a structured collar creates a neat, defined base that makes the tree feel more like a finished part of the room. It also provides a little extra opportunity to introduce texture and natural materials into your holiday decorating, particularly if the rest of your scheme is quite simple.

If scallops aren't quite your style, ALDI has two other designs in the collection. The Seagrass Star Tree Collar features a decorative woven star pattern, while the Water Hyacinth Tree Collar offers a more understated natural finish. All three have their own appeal, but the scalloped rattan design is the one I'd choose. It brings just enough detail to make the tree stand out, without competing with the decorations above it.

At $16.99, these are an affordable way to give your Christmas tree a more polished finish. And if, like me, you enjoy bringing natural materials and thoughtful details into your holiday decorating, ALDI's latest collection is well worth a look.

Shop Woven Tree Skirts

A tree collar is one of those finishing touches that can make a real difference to the overall look of a Christmas tree. If ALDI's three natural designs have inspired you, I've also rounded up a curated selection of alternatives from other retailers, including woven rattan styles and decorative collars that bring a little extra texture and character to your holiday display.

Seasonal decorating is a fast-paced affair at this time of year. As soon as Labor Day weekend is over, it's weeks of fall foliage into harvest motifs into pumpkins into turkeys, and then lights and trees galore. You could redecorate your home for every one of the "-ber" months, and social media often suggests that you should. And while it's such a joy to tweak your home for the holidays, is it essential to overhaul it for every festive occasion?

We spoke with designers to find out how they do seasonal decorating tastefully, slowly, and more sustainably. Because there are plenty of tasteful shifts you can make throughout the home from fall into Christmas that will have your home looking exceptionally festive, without the big switch-ups every month.

1. Work With What You Have

Unsurprisingly, decorating for the holidays largely depends on how much you enjoy it. For many, it's a traditional Christmas ritual that marks the beginning of the festive period, so much of its appeal lies in the nostalgia and familiarity of treasures from past holidays.

'For Holiday decorating, I suggest using what you have from previous holidays that feel timeless, like pillows and throws in seasonal colors to change the mood,' says interior designer Suzanne Schultze. 'Buying new tabletop and holiday decor every year just creates more clutter and storage needs. Instead, use seasonal greens, fruits, vegetables, and berries to assemble in trays and vessels you already own,' Suzanne adds. 'Mix with glass ornaments, twinkle lights, and candlesticks for a festive look. They are fresh and fragrant, and can be composted or recycled afterward, which is always a win in my book!'

2. Create Thoughtful Vignettes You Switch Slowly With the Seasons

'We approach seasonal decorating much like we approach interiors: it should feel personal, thoughtful, and connected to the way you live,' explains interior designer Meredith Owen. 'I don’t think you need to redecorate for every holiday. Decorate for the occasions you love and the traditions that mean something to your family. Sometimes a bowl of seasonal branches or a beautifully set table is enough to make your home feel festive. It should bring you joy, rather than feel like another obligation.'

Creating little vignettes on sideboards, coffee tables, or kitchen islands that you can add to throughout the season is a nice way to nod to the festivities without having to start over every few weeks.

'I like to work with the home’s existing design, bringing in a few layers that shift the mood,' adds Meredith. 'In fall, that might mean richer textiles, branches, and candlelight. At Christmas, a tree and fresh greenery can make a wonderful statement without rearranging the entire room. Keeping your favorite furniture, artwork, and collected pieces in place makes the seasonal additions feel more personal.'

3. Make Decorating a Ritual

For many of us, decorating for the seasons and the holidays is a ritual to enjoy with our loved ones. The act itself is just as important as the outcome. By approaching seasonal decor as a meaningful ritual that sees you through the transition of the seasons, it feels far more enduring. Think homemade Thanksgiving centerpieces to hanging a garland made from hand-picked leaves come Christmas.

'I still remember how magical it felt as a child when the seasons changed, and our home changed with them – it made every holiday feel like an event worth looking forward to,' says Brooke Mennen-Talsma of Brooke MT Interiors. 'Now I want to create that same sense of wonder and nostalgia for my own kids. It doesn’t have to be elaborate or expensive! It’s really about marking the moments so that years from now they’ll remember the little rituals of pulling out the pumpkins in fall or the bunny figurines in spring, and maybe carry those traditions into their own homes one day.'

'For us, it’s never a total overhaul. Instead, I’ve slowly built a collection of special pieces over the years and each one gets its own little showcase moment when its season or holiday comes around. That might be a vignette on the mantel, a centerpiece on the dining table, or a few touches on the entry console. Because the pieces come back year after year, they become familiar friends, and the kids get excited to see them again. I add a piece or two each year, so the collection grows with our family, and the unpacking itself has become a tradition we all look forward to as a family.'

4. Be Inspired By What's Happening in Nature

A natural way to decorate seasonally is to be inspired by what's happening outside. Use nature to inspire your decorating process, using the changing landscape as your muse. Start by sourcing as much natural produce as you can, such as leafy branches for a vase on your kitchen island, and then evergreen boughs as you get closer to Christmas.

'Redecorating for every holiday or season is absolutely bonkers, and no, you should not!' says Katie Kiser of Katie Kiser & Co. 'Interiors are meant to be seasonless, save for an additional throw blanket in the winter. Lest you end up living in a house styled like a budget home decor store.'

'Seasonal decorating can be as organic as clipping a few branches for fall and displaying your summer garden haul in a bowl. For Christmas, I love to use fresh greenery and garland from our local garden club, seasonal produce such as pears, and beautiful satsuma oranges with the bright leaves attached. Most importantly, you need a high-quality, double-faced ribbon. May Arts has been my go-to supplier for going on two decades! I plan my entire theme around their ribbon availability. I also love to incorporate pops of color through tapered candles.'

Timeless Seasonal Picks

No matter the season, these timeless picks will bring festive charm and instant coziness to any home. Designed to last, you'll find yourself reaching for these staples every holiday.

Whether you're adding last-minute Christmas decor to your home or bringing out timeless collections you've had in the family for years, redecorating for every holiday depends on how much it brings you joy.

'Decorating for a holiday should feel like a gift to yourself and the people you live with, not one more thing on the to-do list,' says Ashley Macuga of Studio Collected. 'If pulling out the boxes brings you joy, do it. If it brings dread, give yourself permission to skip a holiday or two. A home that has been put together with intention the rest of the year doesn’t need a costume change to feel special. It just needs a few small signals that something is being celebrated.'

Milanese design platform Artemest may have roots in Italy, but it's steadily been growing a second set in New York City. Its first physical outpost arrived in 2023, a decadent jewel box of a showroom in Manhattan's West Chelsea district. The city also yielded one of its most noteworthy collaborators, multidisciplinary design studio GACHOT, with whom it launched its first proprietary furniture collection.

Now, adding to a growing list of Manhattan milestones, Artemest Collection by GACHOT has made the love affair explicit with The New York Edit. The second chapter of the furniture line that caught our attention during Milan Design Week 2026 is a minimalist, low-slung, swanky homage to the downtown loft culture of the 1990s.

Christine and John Gachot, the husband-and-wife duo behind the studio, found a furniture story in the raw, expansive lofts of downtown New York, once home to artists like Donald Judd and Jean-Michel Basquiat. The installation at the Artemest Galleria gets you a little closer to the life, if not the real estate, of an era most of us never experienced but still seem to be nostalgic for, when socialites rubbed shoulders with artists, emerging designers could afford to live among them, and the city’s disparate creative tribes mingled with an uncommon freedom. It’s a New York the Gachots have kept alive in their own slice of the city.

‘Having spent many years living in a downtown loft, we wanted to capture that sense of an open, welcoming, and evolving space. We raised our family in a loft on Bond Street, hosted many holidays and parties, and were very influenced creatively by that certain lifestyle as New Yorkers,’ say John and Christine. ‘Our inspiration here is bringing together that energy and New York sensibility with the warmth and tradition of Italian craftsmanship that heavily inspired our conversations and collaboration with Artemest.’

For all the city’s cool factor, expressed in metallic finishes, warm brass, rich suedes and leathers, soft gray and ivory textiles, and lacquered surfaces in black, cream, and oxblood, there's something distinctly inviting about the collection indeed. Fit for children or your chicest friends, it echoes the underbelly that once welcomed aesthetes and oddballs alike.

There's room for everyone here. A dining table is surrounded not by tiny, terrible-for-a-two-hour-dinner chairs, but spacious, softly curved armchairs that encourage a second bottle. A lacquered inset-top side table is glossy enough for company, its chamfered solid-wood frame grounding it in the everyday. The Vignette Signature Sofa, meanwhile, first seduces with its sculptural presence, but loose box seat and back cushions upholstered in alpaca wool Loro Piana Interiors upholstery ultimately say yes, you can rest your eyes here next Sunday, too.

‘Artemest Collection is about giving the world’s most distinctive design voices a platform to express their vision through the extraordinary skills of Italian artisans. With GACHOT, this dialogue feels particularly natural: John and Christine bring a sensibility that is unmistakably New York, while our artisans translate that vision through Italian materials, craftsmanship and elegance. Bringing the collection to New York completes that exchange. The New York Edit is an expression of Italian savoir-faire seen through GACHOT’s very personal interpretation of the city, its culture and the way people live here,’ says Marco Credendino, Founder and CEO of Artemest.

Often, NYC-modernist collections like these can read a little too cool for school. An army of angular surfaces staring at you across the room. The New York Edit, on the other hand, recalls the open-armed, unbridled creativity that once made downtown a home for everyone. Leave it to the Italians to bring a little comfort to New York’s famously hard edges.

With Manhattan on the mind, it's worth noting that the island has plenty more fodder for furniture. From the unexpected to the soon-to-be-everywhere, revisit the biggest trends we spotted during New York Design Week 2026.

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The holiday season is upon us, with Thanksgiving and Christmas right around the corner, so it's time to start preparing your kitchen for all the hosting to come. You might have the menu set and the guest bedrooms prepped, but your kitchen does a lot of the heavy lifting.

So, it only seems right that your kitchen gets the same holiday treatment as your cozier rooms. It goes beyond being stocked up on all the right ingredients and adding a sprinkle of Christmas decor – ensuring you have elevated pieces that make a kitchen look more beautiful and boost function is always valued during this busy time of year.

And interior designers say there are a few things they wish every kitchen had before hosting for the holidays. These are the thoughtful details often overlooked, why they make a difference, and the prettiest pieces to invest in that will last for years to come.

1. Ensure There Is Comfy Seating for Every Guest

A formal dining room might be favored for the actual Thanksgiving dinner, but for evening drinks, breakfast, and more relaxed meals, the kitchen is the natural gathering place. But there's nothing more chaotic than trying to host in a room filled with people lingering with no proper place to sit. And you can easily add it now, ahead of your guests arriving.

'I think every kitchen needs a good spot for people to sit and hang out while you’re cooking. It doesn’t matter how much space you have in the rest of the house, everyone somehow ends up in the kitchen! And as much as I love having everyone together, it’s not always fun trying to cook a big meal with people standing in front of the fridge or right where you need to be prepping. Having a few comfortable seats where people can visit without being in the way makes hosting so much easier,' says interior designer Melissa Dyckman.

How you introduce kitchen seating will depend entirely on the layout of your space. 'If you have an island, I love adding comfortable counter stools, preferably with backs, because let’s face it, people are going to sit there for a while,' she suggests, adding that ensuring adequate flow is still maintained. 'I typically like to allow around 42 to 48 inches behind island seating, especially in a kitchen where people tend to gather. It’s one of those little details you might not think about until you’re hosting a houseful of people!'

If you don't have a kitchen island, or if you have a bit of extra space to play with, a cozier dining nook with banquette seating and charming upholstery always brings a new social layer to a kitchen. 'If you don’t have an island, even a little breakfast nook or a small table nearby can work,' says Melissa. 'Put out a few snacks, give everyone a place to settle in, and you can still enjoy being part of the conversation while you’re cooking. That’s really what I love about having people over during the holidays anyway.'

2. Use Beautiful Serveware to Elevate Kitchen Countertops

When you're hosting for the holidays, it's easy to think about the pieces you'll use to serve food, but you should also consider how those ceramics can be used beyond. A plain serving platter is fine, but something more decorative will elevate a table and double as decor when not in use.

'Every kitchen needs one showstopping serving piece. It’s the kind of item that feels essential around the holidays and earns its place all year long. I love an oversized marble board or a sculptural cake stand. During a holiday party, it holds the charcuterie spread or the dessert everyone’s been waiting for. The rest of the time, it’s part of your decor,' says interior designer Kathy Kuo.

Instead of choosing serveware as a functional piece, think of it as decor, too. 'Treat it like art,' she advises. 'Leave it on the island, styled with a few favorite cookbooks or a sculptural vase and a pair of brass candlesticks. When guests come over, just clear it off and pile on whatever you’re serving.'

3. Create Thoughtful Stations That Make Guests Feel at Home

One of the most chaotic parts of holiday hosting is the morning rush when everyone gets up for coffee and breakfast. Instead of spending the morning making various hot drinks and different plates of food, set up dedicated areas, like a coffee station, for guests to easily help themselves and create a calmer kitchen.

'I’ve adopted the concept of mimicking luxury hotels for hosting guests during the holidays. The kitchen is no exception. Mostly, how the buffet-style stations work to serve guests when they’re thirsty or hungry. For us, like many, the kitchen is the heart of the home where everyone congregates,' says interior designer Brittny Button.

These small details make guests feel considered and more comfortable in your home, but it also makes hosting easier, as you won't be running around trying to sort every drink and breakfast choice alone. 'Set up the kitchen island to be in different segments: morning drinks, coffee, tea, matcha; snacks; shelves in the fridge devoted to mini meal items and to-go (individually wrapped) items that can be taken to eat in the car, on a walk,' she explains.

If you're just planning to create stations for breakfast time, you can create a buffet-style setup with stations for drinks, food, and tableware in a really beautiful way, perhaps with your favorite seasonal tablecloth to set the tone. 'Leaving notecards and labels enables guests to find their way around unassisted,' Brittny adds. 'Guests have flexibility with when, where, and how they eat, knowing that they’ll have different timetables and are not bound to a certain eating hour.'

Your kitchen setup should make holiday hosting easier – and a little prettier. These things will do just that, creating a seamless flow between dining and relaxing, function and aesthetics. The best part? All of these buys will serve you well all year, not just one season!

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As someone who loves to host, I know just how helpful it is to have a bar cart. A workhorse of a cohost, it can hold everything from wine and spirits to glassware and bar tools. During a party, it keeps all the essentials within arm's reach, but once the festivities are through, I do feel like the space could be put to better use.

So as hosting season starts to ramp up, I am on the hunt for a bar cart that can give me a hand during holiday parties without occupying too much floor space. And luckily for me, I didn’t actually have to compromise on size to find the winning pick. Enter Wayfair’s Folding Bar Cart – the most convenient hosting helper that’s spacious, sleek, and folds away once the party is over.

A bar cart on wheels was a non-negotiable for me; I wanted it to be a flexible piece that I could wheel from living room to kitchen with ease. It features the standard, two-tiered design, too – perfect for storing spirits, mixers, and wine bottles below and glasses and napkins up top.

But what makes this bar cart so desirable is its more unconventional features. From the two removable trays to its foldable frame, this cart is designed for maximum functionality, and it can tuck away when it's no longer needed. And at less than $160, I'd say it's a steal.

Its dark wood finish adds a charming modern farmhouse look, and its gold joint hardware is a nice finishing touch. Boasting a high rating on Wayfair's site, reviewers seem to appreciate everything about this bar cart. 'I’m in love with this bar cart,' one reviewer raves. 'It has a very expensive look, was easy to assemble, and looks amazing in my living room.' And as if it couldn't have any more positive attributes, it’s also Wayfair Verified, which means it’s been thoroughly inspected by a product specialist who has confirmed its quality materials, easy assembly, and highly functional design.

Now that the holiday hosting season is here, I'd say it's the perfect time to reevaluate your setup and consider adding Wayfair's Folding Bar Cart into the mix. Whether you have a large living room or a small gathering space like mine, its remarkable design makes it hard to pass up.

How I'd Style Wayfair's Folding Bar Cart

Put Wayfair's Folding Bar Cart to use this holiday season by styling it with the hosting essentials below. Once your party is over, store these essentials in a closet and fold up your bar cart to make more space for everyday life.

Shop More Bar Carts

Wayfair's Folding Bar Cart is hard to beat, but these three styles are just as practical for hosting.

If you plan on hosting this holiday season, this foldable bar cart from Wayfair is, without a doubt, the best helping hand you could have – keeping drinks and snacks in easy reach and folding away when the festivities are through.

It's not the only Wayfair find that'll be helping you this winter, however. This entryway bench is the perfect buy for messy foyers, and it'll keep your guests' shoes in check.

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It’s officially flannel season. The moment temperatures dip below 50 degrees, we instinctively top off our outfits with its familiar fuzz. Flannel sheets, which harbor body heat more effectively than, say, smooth cotton percale or sateen, extend that cozy cocoon we crave as nights grow colder.

The cabin-classic bed sheet material often goes hand in hand with plaid (if you haven’t heard, pattern play is back in bedding for 2027). But this season expands the flannel wardrobe. Boll & Branch's airy sets swaddle with sandy tartan checks and heathered oatmeal windowpanes. Coyuchi brings coastal cool to soft blue stripes, while Quince gets a head start on Christmas in solid pine green. And for our floral-loving maximalists, Pottery Barn’s LoveShackFancy collaboration makes sleeping in even prettier with pink and powder-blue damask.

Your duvet can stay. Your pillows are fine. It's the sheets we're changing instead of the thermostat. Shop 16 warming flannel styles we wouldn’t dream of doing winter without.

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You swore you’d never do it. But dozens of cousins and a few unexpected out-of-towners have joined the guest list, and your dishwasher has officially run out of bandwidth. You could keep expanding your china collection to accommodate a crowd that assembles in full once a year. Or you could spare yourself the handwashing, stop disappearing between courses, and actually sit down to enjoy your Thanksgiving.

Paper plates, by names like Table Two Studio, Pavillion Paper, and Sophistiplate, have gotten very good at cosplaying porcelain. ‘Avoid anything overly glossy or printed with obvious seasonal graphics,’ says Erika Gessin, Founder & Creative Director of The Fete Edit. ‘I especially love scalloped plates in warm toffee or taupe tones for Thanksgiving. Their soft, earthy colors feel sophisticated and complement the season without relying on traditional holiday motifs.’

Of course, these low-maintenance styles don’t excuse you from putting in the effort elsewhere on your Thanksgiving table. Personal touches like menus or handwritten place cards should stay. So should the usual tableware, such as cloth napkins, a real linen tablecloth, striking centerpiece, and, perhaps most importantly, chargers. ‘Layering is one of the simplest ways to make disposable dinnerware feel more substantial,’ continues Erika. ‘The charger adds structure and texture, giving the setting the same visual weight as traditional ceramic dinnerware. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference.’

They're as easy on the eyes as they are to clean. From passed hors d’oeuvres to Thanksgiving’s final slice of pie, these 16 paper plates offer some much-needed hosting relief without compromising your table’s good looks.

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Kitchens are no longer designed as purely functional rooms. We do far more than just cook in these spaces – dining, hosting, socializing, and even relaxing evenings are now spent in them, so it's no surprise that cozier setups and more comfortable details have become a far greater priority.

So when the time came to redesign this country kitchen into a charming space that combines function with cozier needs, a living room-style seating area was a no-brainer, creating a truly relaxing place to gather and unwind while staying connected to the main cooking space.

With a thoughtful color scheme, a beautiful blend of materials, and a focus on homey details, this open-plan space now feels truly timeless, exuding warmth and charm at every corner. It's a lesson in creating a more social kitchen without sacrificing function.

Create a Modern Take on English Country Style With Thoughtful Colors and Materials

An open-plan kitchen relies on perfect color choices to feel warm and inviting yet not overpowering. To balance the different zones in this design while still creating a beautifully layered, personalized scheme, a warm, elegantly neutral palette was chosen.

'The color palette is deliberately restrained to highlight a rich interplay of textures, from walnut and stone countertops to the character of zellige tiles. In a space where color is more muted, tactility takes the lead, bringing a sense of heritage, craftsmanship, and authenticity,' says Rebecca Hughes, Founder and Creative Director of Rebecca Hughes Interiors.

Contrast and bolder design features come via smaller accents and upholstery. 'The interiors sit at the intersection of classic English country style and contemporary comfort, where traditional influences are softened with a sense of lightness and warmth to avoid formality. Natural materials take center stage, while floral textiles offer a gentle nod to heritage, and elements such as the timber ceiling beams and jute rugs introduce a subtle artisanal edge.'

Add Sofa-Style Seating For Comfortable Social Zones

The way kitchens are being used and designed is shifting. No longer are they solely for cooking, but rooms where life is lived, socializing happens, and hosting takes place. And this kitchen makes a compelling case for incorporating living room-style kitchen seating for a cozier, more room-like feel. It's about comfort and creating social layouts that re-crown the kitchen as the heart of the home.

'The area I’m most pleased with is the sofa seating, which is what makes the kitchen feel truly sociable and inviting. The two sofas deliberately differ in both style and fabric, bringing a sense of informality and warmth that feels relaxed rather than overly considered,' Rebecca explains, noting that the comfier seating zone was crucial to the flow and function of the entire space.

'The kitchen was designed as a truly social space, where family life, cooking, gathering, and entertaining naturally converge. The island and floral sofa create inviting places to relax and connect. Loved ones can settle on the sofa, chat with those preparing food or enjoy an informal snack, while the kitchen remains at the heart of the activity. It’s a space designed to bring people together, whether gathered around the island, sharing a meal, or simply enjoying time in each other’s company.'

Create a Seamless Connection to Dining Without Everything Matching

It's easy to fall into the trap of matching an adjoining dining room to your kitchen to create cohesion, but the most striking, elevated spaces have their own identity. In this design, consistent details were continued into the dining area, yet a playful wallpaper creates a totally different feel.

'Whilst we wanted the spaces to feel cohesive – using consistent flooring and architectural moldings to create a sense of continuity – we also wanted each to have its own distinct identity, inviting curiosity and encouraging exploration between the two,' Rebecca recalls. 'We deliberately introduced contrasting wall coverings and a softer pendant light to create a more intimate, warm, and inviting atmosphere.'

Embrace the Natural Beauty of Stone Countertops

Just because you are renovating a kitchen doesn't mean you have to remove every detail – especially if the existing design already has something worth saving. In this instance, it was the kitchen countertops – stone surfaces with a charming patina and just the right amount of movement to work beautifully in the new design.

'We inherited the stone countertops from the previous kitchen and felt they were worth retaining for their beautiful tactile quality, depth of color, and subtle variations in pink tones,' says Rebecca, who explains the countertops became a valuable jumping-off point for the other materials in the design.

'We chose the zellige tiles for the backsplash to draw out these warmer undertones and complement the natural character of the stone. The intention was to create a space that feels authentic and timeless, with a sense of warmth and patina rather than anything overly polished or slick.'

Layer Kitchen Lighting to Balance Function and Cozy Ambiance

Statement kitchen lighting has been having a moment, but form and function need to work harmoniously for a successful scheme. Though these rooms are becoming more social and cozy, lighting still needs to be functional. For Rebecca, a layered lighting scheme balanced practical needs and the room's softer aesthetic.

'We centered the island pendants within the existing ceiling beams, ensuring they sat comfortably within the rhythm of the cabinetry. I wanted something with scale and presence, but in a material other than glass, with a clean, utilitarian quality,' she explains. This approach ensures the chosen fixtures have a visual presence, while still providing adequate lighting above the workspace.

There was also an emphasis on choosing pieces that enhanced the design without overwhelming it. The lighting was never meant to be the focal point – an ethos that led the choice of fixtures. 'Their simplicity creates a deliberate contrast with the dining room pendant, allowing the two fixtures to complement one another rather than compete or feel repetitive. Both were chosen for their timeless forms, understated design, and honest materiality.'

Accessorize With Curated Decor for a Truly Lived-In Scheme

Decor is the final detail of any kitchen that brings a more personalized, collected touch. You don't want surfaces to look cluttered, but they should feel layered with treasured pieces and pretty kitchenware. The shelving in this space became the focus of the small but meaningful details, where beloved recipe books, traditional serveware, and elevated storage create a curated focal point.

'We spent a great deal of time curating the shelves, bringing together our client’s favorite cookbooks with the everyday essentials they reach for most often, from salt and pepper to a well-loved pestle and mortar. We wanted these practical pieces to feel just as considered as the more decorative objects. After all, functionality needn’t come at the expense of beauty, particularly in the kitchen.'

Quick Tips

• Use color and materials to bring authentic English country style
• Curate cozy seating spaces beyond dining for a social kitchen
• Create cohesion between zones without matching every detail
• Don't replace every kitchen feature if there's something worth keeping
• Make lighting work harder – especially in an open-plan kitchen
• Focus on the decorative details for a lived-in look

Shop the Look

While not every kitchen has space for a large seating area like this one, it does show how much softer and cozier a kitchen feels with a more room-like approach to furniture. It's about creating a kitchen that functions beyond cooking and reclaims its place as the true heart of the home. It's a glimpse at the future of these critical rooms.

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There's a long-standing saying that 'blue and green should never be seen'. In fact, this myth has floated around for some time, but anyone who knows a thing or two about color knows that, in practice, it couldn't be further from the truth.

There are tried-and-tested, long-loved color combinations for rooms, and then there are unexpected pairings that aren't always obvious, yet feel just as timeless when done well. This is where pale blue and green slot in. Yes, they might both be on the cooler side, but with some thoughtful styling, cozy layering, and attention to hue and undertone, these two hues couldn't be a better match.

Characterful, timeless, and always uplifting, here's how designers pair pale blue and green side-by-side.

Sage green and blue might be a trendy color combination, but pale blue and lush green are the timeless pairing with plenty of character.

It's more than a color trend, explains interior designer Lucy Doswell. 'It’s the oldest pairing there is, sky above and foliage below, so the combination always feels calming and familiar. Blues and greens have been used in classic interiors for centuries and still look fresh. It’s also easy to live with – it works with antiques, modern art and bold patterns alike, so a room can morph and grow without the colors ever feeling dated.'

'What I value most is its adaptability,' adds Lucy. 'Here (above) it holds portraits, contemporary photography, antique furniture, a graphic Kilim rug, and it all works together. The room started with the dahlia block print fabric from Clarence House on the slipper chair. Then the added layers of olive green, brown and aubergine felt like the right mood for a study meant for gathering and lingering. The teal blue wallpaper with gold detailing draws the eye upwards and makes you feel enveloped in the colors of the room.'

Paler, soft blues are replacing navy blue kitchen cabinets and darker wall colors. In this rustic farmhouse kitchen, a pale blue dresser is paired with a fresh, mossy green. Balancing freshness with nostalgia, the color combination brings a real comfort to this one-of-a-kind kitchen.

'We wanted to create a palette that felt connected to the natural world, with each color bringing something different to the space,' explains Christina Bull, Studio Lead at Sims Hilditch. 'The green cabinetry and botanical wallpaper introduce freshness, while the softer blue of the dresser provides a gentle contrast. We also added a touch of yellow through ‘Buena Vista Gold’, which translates as ‘good view’. It reflects our thinking that even the hardest-working spaces in the home can be beautiful. Warm wood and brass details bring further depth and balance, ensuring the overall scheme feels welcoming and full of character.'

'I think blue and green work beautifully together because they are colors we instinctively associate with nature,' Christina says. 'They complement one another without feeling overly matched, particularly when used in softer, more nuanced tones. They also sit comfortably alongside natural materials, pattern and antique details, which makes the scheme feel as though it has evolved naturally with the house.'

In this cozy living room, sky-blue walls and sage green built-ins create a sense of tranquility. Characterful upholstery and vintage layers act as sources of comfort, while the paint colors are the uplifting touch that transports you to a place of relaxation.

'The client wanted this north-facing room to feel uplifting and inviting. We painted the walls a sky blue that brings the essence of sunshine even when the real thing is lacking,' explains interior designer Pandora Taylor.

Perfect for creating cheer on gray days, the soft tones mirror the sky on a sunny day. 'The pale green sits calmly next to the blues, creating contrast without trying too hard,' Pandora adds. 'The soft tones throughout create a calming space you want to spend time in. Blues and greens are so tied up in our unconscious with the beauties of summer – green grass and blue skies – they can't fail to delight.'

The Pale Blue & Green Edit

Pale blue and green are timeless paint colors in their own right, but side-by-side, they couldn't be more classic. On top of that, they're uplifting, soothing, and enduringly sophisticated, designed to make any room feel instantly more inspiring.

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After the lights are strung, the ornaments are hung, and the skirt’s been laid beneath, there’s one final detail to make a Christmas tree come to life, and it sits above everything else, literally. That detail is the tree topper.

As arguably one of the most important Christmas decor ideas, the tree topper is the decorative touch that can pull an entire holiday arrangement – not just the tree – together. It’s like the cherry on top of a cake; the statement accessory that rounds out a killer outfit. Without it, your tree is simply incomplete, and your holiday display will feel like it’s missing one final thing.

Traditional Christmas decor schemes rely on classic forms like stars and angels to become their crowning jewels. These styles have long reigned as the most popular tree toppers; the favorites you come back to year after year. Like IKEA’s VINTERFINT Star or Target’s Incandescent Angel, these toppers yield a familiar and endearing look, and they’ll give your holiday decor scheme a sense of timeless elegance.

That said, there’s plenty of other Christmas tree toppers out there – ranging from McGee & Co.’s Turtle Dove Tree Topper to Pottery Barn’s Oversized Tartan Bow. Tree toppers can even lean more whimsical to create a refreshing and vibrant holiday vibe, like West Elm’s Light Up Moon Topper or Anthropologie’s Cherry Topper (the latter being a playful pick for those who like a hint of kitsch in their Christmas display).

Whether you prefer the classics or you’re looking for something fun, we’ve found 20 Christmas tree toppers that’ll make sure your tree and your entire holiday display are complete.

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