Designer Lauren Sullivan Says the Key to Elevated Holiday Decor Is to Choose Just One Signature Detail – Here’s How to Follow Her Advice

Step into Lauren Sullivan's home at any time of year, and it feels warm and welcoming – but over the holidays, that cozy, inviting sense is tenfold. Her transitional style effortlessly mixes her love of vintage with the more ‘modern European’ aesthetic she’s known for.

When we toured Lauren's Tennessee home back in the summer, we knew we would need to revisit this beautiful space for the holidays. Red ribbons add pops of color among the neutral scheme, luscious garlands adorn the mantels and staircases, and mini wreaths sit among family heirlooms. The home feels effortlessly festive, charming, and nostalgic, yet with a touch of elegance.

‘My approach to holiday decorating is rooted in nostalgia and simplicity,’ explains Lauren. ‘I like layering greenery, candlelight, and a single unifying detail to create a festive home that still feels calm and collected.’

Here, the founder of design studio Well x Design shares her five key holiday decorating tips for recreating her timeless scheme.

1. Choose One Signature Detail and Repeat It Throughout

'For me, it was red ribbon. Repeating a single detail throughout the house creates an immediate sense of cohesion. I carried the same rich red ribbon throughout – mixing satin and velvet for subtle variation – from the mantel and chandelier to the pass-through tree and even the greenhouse. It’s simple but impactful, and it keeps the decor feeling intentional rather than busy.'

2. Elevate the Everyday with Natural Greenery

'I love working with materials like foraged branches, dried citrus, or simple textiles—things that feel textural and grounded. Even something like a sculptural bowl of pinecones or chestnuts can nod to the season in a way that feels elegant and a bit unexpected. Fresh (or very natural-looking) greenery instantly softens architectural lines and adds dimension. I draped long cedar garlands across the mantel and staircase, and used smaller wreaths on dining chairs and shelves. The key is letting the greenery fall a bit naturally – not too stiff or perfect – so it brings movement and life into each room.'

3. Layer Lighting for Warmth and Atmosphere

'The foundation of our decor is warm, layered lighting: taper candles, tree lights, and soft interior fixtures working together. The Christmas tree in the entry sets the tone for the whole house – thousands of tiny lights create a glow you can see from almost every space. Candlelight on the dining table and mantel brings depth and gently draws the eye to smaller vignettes.'

4. Add Holiday Touches to Pieces You Already Love

'Instead of replacing a lot of decor, I prefer to accent what’s already there. A simple wreath on the range hood, ribbon tied to existing sconces, or a bit of greenery added to a favorite console or shelf. These small touches layer beautifully without overwhelming the space. They keep the holiday spirit present while still allowing the architecture and collected pieces to shine.'

5. Embrace Nostalgia in a Quiet, Intentional Way

'A timeless holiday look doesn’t rely on trends; it’s built on pieces that feel familiar and meaningful. Tree candles, classic greenery, red ribbons, and traditional silhouettes all nod to the past without feeling dated. I love creating moments that feel warm and nostalgic, but still edited and refined.'

Shop the Look

Lauren's tips are simple but effective, as all good Christmas decorating should be. Her approach is all about adding warmth, nostalgia, and effortless elegance to your holiday scheme, nothing too complicated, just a sprinkling of festivity that still works with the style of your home.