Top Tips for Preparing Your Home for Christmas
As December draws closer, many of us start to picture cosy gatherings, twinkling lights and that wonderful festive buzz. But the run-up to Christmas can also feel stressful, especially when your home is hosting family and friends.
To help you feel more organised (and less overwhelmed), here are my top interior-design-led tips for getting your home ready for Christmas with ease.
1. Start With a Quick Declutter!
Before the decorations come out, give your main living spaces a simple refresh. Focus on:
Hallways
Living rooms
Guest rooms
You don’t need a full clear-out — just remove visual clutter. This creates space for festive décor and instantly makes your home feel calmer.
Designer tip: Create a “temporary home” box where non-seasonal items can be stored until January.
2. Prepare Your Entrance for a Warm Welcome
Your hallway sets the tone, especially when guests arrive with coats, gifts and muddy shoes.
A quick update might include:
A new washable doormat
Baskets for hats, scarves and gloves
Swapping everyday artwork for a seasonal print or decoration
A small lamp or fairy lights to add a warm glow
3. Create a Cosy, Layered Living Room
December calls for warmth and texture. You can refresh your space simply by adding:
Chunky throws
Soft cushions in warm, seasonal tones
A basket for blankets
A single festive focal point (like a wreath, mantel garland, or Christmas tree)
If the room feels cramped, try relocating one piece of occasional furniture until January to create more floor space for guests and the tree!
4. Refresh Your Guest Bedroom
If you’re expecting overnight guests, even small touches can make a big difference:
Fresh white bedding and plump pillows
A folded throw at the foot of the bed
A small tray with towels, toiletries and a festive touch
Soft, warm bedside lighting
If your spare room doubles as a home office, clear one surface so guests have space for their belongings.
5. Think About Lighting
Good lighting transforms the atmosphere during dark December evenings.
Layer your lighting with:
Lamps for a soft glow
Candles in every room
Fairy lights on shelves or in unused fireplaces
6. Add a Few Thoughtful Festive Touches
You don’t need to decorate the whole house. Choose a few key pieces that reflect your style:
A wreath on the front door
A simple garland along the banister
Wrap a few presents early and place them under the tree
Mini Christmas trees or small poinsettia plants on console tables & chests of drawers
Bring in seasonal foliage such as eucalyptus, pine or holly
Ready to Refresh Your Home in the New Year?
If you’re already thinking about giving your home a fresh look after the Christmas festivities, I’d be delighted to help. Although my diary is full for the rest of the year, I’ll be taking on new design clients from mid January onwards.
Whether you’re planning to refresh a single room or update your whole home, feel free to get in touch in the new year. I’d love to chat through your ideas.