Decorating & Design
November 18, 2019
11 Christmas Trees Inspiring House & Home Editors
Our editors at House & Home are crazy for Christmas — and who doesn’t love trimming a holiday tree? Here, they share the Christmas trees that are inspiring their own decorating this season. From lush evergreens loaded with vintage ornaments to minimalist trees that celebrate a less-is-more approach, these festive boughs will inspire you to get into the holiday spirit!
“When this fairy-tale tree appeared in a 2012 issue, it prompted me to start collecting my own vintage ornaments. It’s hard to find modern ornaments in those fondant, candy-like tones — that’s what makes this tree so unique and nostalgic at the same time.” — Wendy Jacob, Features Editor
“This tree — and the stunning room it’s in — really caught my eye. I don’t know if it’s the sculptural branches or the barely-there lights and ornaments, but this is my kind of holiday evergreen: spare, understated and minimalist.” — Day Helesic, Managing Editor
“This simply clad tree feels homey and welcoming. The oversized basket provides a neat way to manoeuvre the tree around a small space — like my downtown home — as needed.” — Keren Stephenson, Design Assistant
“For me, the holidays are a great excuse to go all-out with color. This feathery white tree is the perfect blank canvas for bright ornaments, and it looks like whoever decorated it had a lot of fun. I’ve always had a natural tree, but this one makes me think about switching to faux.” — Alice Lawlor, Editorial Director
“I like the simplicity of this tree by Heather Ross. The juxtaposition of the drippy icicles and the mercury glass ornaments against the rustic metal garbage can is exactly what I like — kind of unexpected. This tree is also perfect for a smaller house or apartment.” — Stacy Begg, Senior Interiors Editor
“I’m all for the comeback of colorful Christmas tree lights. If it’s snow-white outside, inside should be full of color and good cheer. Toronto designer Jennifer Worts finds a tree as big as her family room permits and then says, ‘Yes!’ to every decoration anyone wishes to hang. The result is welcoming, charming and still totally chic. Those are pretty perfect goals for holiday decorating.” — Kimberley Brown, Style Director
“My mom loves to decorate our tree with jewel-toned ornaments, but as I start thinking about what I want my own tree to look like, I can’t help but turn to this stunning evergreen for inspiration. The layering of winter whites, creams and silver give the tree a minimal and luxurious feel and will definitely make their way into my space this holiday season — maybe in the form of a cream velvet tree skirt or an upgraded knit stocking?” — Bianca Zanotti, Assistant Design Editor
“This Christmas tree inspires me because it’s both a unique setup and a lovely decorative element for an otherwise bare corner. The natural light enhances the elegant ornaments and gifts during the day, and I can imagine it’s even more magical at night! Plus, I like miniature trees because they’re more suitable for urban living.” — Corinne Cécilia, Managing Editor, Maison & Demeure
“I’d like to break with tradition and have a white tree this year, similar to this one. I can unleash my creativity and combine as many colors as I want. Plus, it’ll be the only decorative element in my home for the holidays. No need to do extra — quality over quantity! Even if this is a non-traditional approach, it looks more like me.” — Frank Ngako, Digital Editor, Maison & Demeure
“As much as I dream of a grand Christmas tree in my living room, my small square footage just won’t allow it. That doesn’t mean I have to give up on my flocked fantasies entirely, though. This petite tree adorned with an all-white palette of baubles and twinkling lights can easily fit on a side table or even a TV stand, where I plan to put mine. Plus, how elegant is that ruffled tree skirt? Looks like I’ll be getting my Christmas wish after all.” — Victoria Christie, Digital Editor
“I love the mix of ornaments on this tree: small forest critters, felt snowflakes and various baubles here and there. I’m also a big fan of mixing eucalyptus greens with pine; it’s something about the soft silvery green color. I often make a garland with pine, juniper and eucalyptus, but I haven’t put it on my tree before — I’d like to try that this year.” — Jennifer Koper, Senior Design Editor