Decorating & Design
November 13, 2017
This West Coast Home Masters Natural Christmas Decor
Vancouver’s rainy weather and towering pines inspire succulent designer Corinne Isherwood’s pared-down approach to Christmas. “It’s more about simple and green with lots of natural elements,” says Corrine, co-owner of succulent design company Botany Living. Her 5,600-square-foot west side home combines organic elements like wood and brass with a contemporary sensibility. It’s the perfect vibe for a hectic home with four teenagers as well as Boston bull terrier, Chester, and Siberian cat, Kiska. “It’s low-key and relaxed,” Corinne says of their approach, then adds, “It’s very West Coast.”
To tie the traditional house to its coastal location, homeowner Corinne Isherwood scoured Vancouver to find a flooring shade reminiscent of driftwood. The family’s Boston bull terrier, Chester, likes to greet guests at the front door.
Brass accents play off white walls in the formal living room, where streamlined modern furniture surrounds a handsome herringbone-pattern brick hearth. “The blue brings so much life to the room,” says Corinne of the vibrant rug by Jan Kath.
Warm metallics, from light fixtures to decorative vessels, punctuate the cool palette.
Casual touches like the bucket-style tree stand and burlap cover give the home its relaxed feel.
Plain and glitter-tipped pinecones are scattered throughout the house.
Built-ins around the family room fireplace offer display space for special items acquired over the years. “There are sentimental pieces here that are passed down, plants and wedding gifts,” says Corinne. Unpainted wood stair treads add warmth to the white rooms.
Glass-front uppers in the kitchen offer lots of storage but keep the look airy. The barstools were refinished to complement the driftwood-toned floors.
“I’ve always loved the idea of everyone sitting around a big farmhouse table,” says Corinne, who paired the one in her kitchen with a modern chandelier.
A framed chalkboard in the kitchen is used for hand-drawn holiday menus and messages.
A tongue-and-groove table in the library becomes a gift-wrapping zone during the holidays. Corinne found the vintage painting over the mantel at an Arizona antique shop.
Succulents with evergreens are a modern take on classic Christmas greenery.
Small side tables in the principal bedroom provide space for bedside essentials.
Traditional Shaker-style cabinets balance the contemporary feel of the principal ensuite.
Tracey Ayton
House & Home December 2016
Corinne Isherwood