One of the exciting things children and the young at heart look forward to when the “ber” months come rolling along, is the Christmas tree. I remember our Christmas tree at home when I was younger. I would stare at the blinking lights all night and imagine myself to be a chipmunk like Disney’s Chip and Dale so I could explore the tree to my heart’s desire. The memory remains dear to me, so when a project to style a hotel’s Christmas tree was presented, I was really excited to do it.
The idea of a Christmas tree originated from the 16th century in Germany. Towards the end of the 19th century, it gained popularity beyond the country. Traditionally, the tree is adorned with edibles such as fruits and nuts. Today, there is definitely more than one option to decorate one.
For this year, I came across some trends for Christmas and applied them to my tree concept. Here are some of the common trends:
METALLICS
The metallic palette has been dominating the trends the whole year as key colors, but is now going beyond the predictable silver and gold. We are now introduced to fresh perspectives with the use of bronze, brass, copper and jeweled tones. Brass, in particular, exhibits a modern luster that designers find appealing. Check out as well “blanched copper” which is a subtle copper tone and gold in an opulent yellow tone.
SCANDINAVIAN / NORDIC
It is rustic, simple and inviting all at once and is one of the major trends in interiors globally. How to create the feel? Apply natural accents such as wood, antlers, bare branches, fir tree wreaths, pine cones and rustic lanterns. Add some black and white elements into the mix as well. If you find this too minimalist, add some red color through berries, stockings, rugs and fabric tree decorations. Animals are also represented well here with the stag reigning supreme over the wolves and reindeer. These animals usually decorate the faces of cushions, dishes and tablecloths.
WHITE CHRISTMAS
Pile on layers of different shades of white from ivory, cream to off-white mixed with metallics for texture and richness of color. This is perfect for those who prefer a more understated ambiance. The all-white theme can be applied to different designs from an elegant shabby chic look with French country influences to a modern take by combining white with copper and silver. Frosting is also popular this year. It can add some opulence to an all-white theme with its glitter and sparkle. For DIY projects, try using spraying glitter or apply flakes to surfaces that can create a winter wonderland in an instant. If you want to decorate your tree with some local flavor, try maximizing our resources and experiment with capiz shells to make it unique.
FROZEN PARADISE
An innovative idea that created a big influence on Christmas decorations this year is the wildlife in spring. Think nature, fruits, forest animals such as bunnies and chicks and flowers in bloom. Here, the shiny whites are accompanied by deep greens. “Birds of paradise” will also make an exotic appearance but we will continue to see the popular woodland creatures such as foxes, owls, bear, deer and squirrels in their updated stylish forms.
ORGANIC
We have witnessed more restaurants adopting the “farm-to-table” interiors that speak earthy, organic and natural. An example would be the Wholesome table restaurant design. This design is not only limited to interiors but to other aspects as well. In recent times, studies show that we are more open to purchase eco-friendly products. Buyers have become more interested in materials like hemp, sisal, burlap and papier-mâché which they can recycle, repurpose and are environmentally-friendly. For an organic Christmas theme, create rustic-themed trees with natural accessories and woodland creatures. On trend are wreaths hand-braided with wool and other natural pieces. Try wrapping transparent candleholders with pieces of cloth and lace for a more cozy and personal feel.
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