MAKE IT SIMPLY BEAUTIFULTHIS CHRISTMAS

Is there anything lovelier than being surrounded by nature? This year all our Christmas themes have been inspired by beautiful British landscapes in recognition of how recent challenges have helped us forge new connections with our surroundings.

Our Snow Mountain theme is perfect for everyone who loves the magic of silver and white for Christmas. Beautifully layered with natural materials, icy twinkle and the scent of spruce, it has the calm and soothing charm of  Scandi-style simplicity.

Think mountain lodges and roaring fires, woolen fabrics and sheepskins to snuggle into on movie nights. Set the table with linen, stoneware plates, and wooden platters. Add the twinkle of candlelight and gather those you love to celebrate in style, giving thanks for simple pleasures.

One of the joys of the natural approach is that it is easy to get started. Gather up boughs of foliage and use liberally. Fill vases with twigs laden with baubles and weave greenery across mantelpieces, around mirrors and over door frames for simple coordinated Christmas trimmings.

Partner & Home Design Stylist Bethan Harwood (johnlewis_bethan) thinks pine cones and rustic wooden textures are the under-valued stars. ‘They are great for contrast against neutral palettes,’ she says. ‘The brown tones will add depth to your styling and help highlight subtle white decorations.’ She suggests rounding up the family for a foraging excursion so everyone can play their part. 

Wondering how to display the Christmas cards this year? We love the suggestion above of a tree shape created by a string of lights, ready for filling with cards and good wishes. Wil Law, Partner & Home Design Stylist in Leeds (johnlewis_wil) sees simple string lights as a way to create magical moments of interest all around the room. ‘I like to cluster baubles and festive candles on smaller surfaces such as side tables then weave in battery-powered fairy lights to draw the eye.’

When it’s cold outside there’s only one place to be – snuggled up at home in front of a real fire. Bring elements of cosy to your room scheme with layers of cushions and extra throws on hand to hunker down under. Layer up the floor with natural rugs and match the texture with baskets which are an unbeatable accessory for filling with Christmas goodies.

‘Natural materials have an organic, rustic aesthetic that can make your home feel like a cosy Scandinavian cabin and it’s the layering of different textures that’s key,' says Wil. ‘For soft furnishings, mix relaxed linens with plush furs and chunky wool knits to create depth. The same is true for the harder materials. Festive glass, clustered with earthenware and even some foraged wood as an organic element, can create a dynamic display with an artisanal look.’

Take that layering to the Christmas tree, mixing baubles in glass and felt, pearlescent and matt. Mix shapes and scale to create interest. The wreath, another Christmas staple, is right at home here too. Hang them in groups to bring warmth and texture to plain white walls or lay flat on the table and fill with baubles or candles as a Scandi centre piece.

Christmas morning will feel all the more special if you extend your festive decorating to bedrooms – especially the guest room. ‘You don’t have to swap out your linen for Christmas motifs,’ says Wil. ‘Just go bigger and softer with your furnishings, introducing sheepskins, knitted throws and brushed cottons that have warmth and tactility.’ Garlands and small decorations can be really charming here too. ‘Lights also can add that subtle festive feel, so consider wiring some around your bedside table or bed frame for a cosy, restful glow,’ Wil adds. 

Catching up with friends in the run up to Christmas is the perfect excuse to bring the party home. Old school drinks receptions are back in fashion, reveling in the chance to dress up and create a sense of occasion.

‘When styling a Christmas drinks party, you want your guests to be comfortable,’ says Wil. ‘Soft lighting all through the space creates a cosy ambience – think lanterns and simple tea lights as well as fairy lights.’ For Wil, the drinks party is all about opulence so roll out the bar cart and stock up on statement glassware. ‘Pearlescent glass is sleek, while fluted glass has timeless sophistication,’ he says.

And don't forget the festive fragrance. If you have a real fire, add a cinnamon stick to the flames or a small bunch of rosemary at the fire’s edge. Alternatively use natural oils. A subtle scent will complete the scheme and make the room feel warming and welcoming.