HOMES & DECORATING

7 Home decor ideas

Here for you the 7 steps to a modern Country Christmas!

STYLING BY MARIE NICHOLS ASSISTED BY LUCY ANDERSON

1 WELCOME THE JOY

Greet guests with an enchanting display of colour. Hang brightly hued paper garlands from door struts, tie saturated silk ribbons around tree branches and swap a traditional foliage wreath for a willow version, studded with vibrant dried flowers, to uplift your front door.

2 COUNT THE DAYS

An embroidered Advent calendar makes a pleasing (and planet-friendly) alternative to the disposable chocolate variety. Fill each day with a surprise, from paper invites to a seasonal activity to a handmade decoration for the tree or, yes, a tempting sweet treat…

3 TRIM THE TREE

Colourful honeycomb decorations create a refreshingly modern look, and their natural shape fits surprisingly well beside traditional baubles made from glass and ceramic. Set an upbeat tone by festooning different shades of these paper ornaments with simply tied bows in complementary jolly hues.

4 BAKE THE TREATS

Sweeten the festivities by inviting would-be bakers into the kitchen. Fill piping bags with icing (made from organic sugar and natural food colouring) before reaching for the all-important snowflake sprinkles. And remember, a slightly misshapen or wonkily iced biscuit can taste all the better for its homespun charm.

5 WRAP THE GIFTS

Wrap presents in a mix of colours, patterns and textures – it’s the juxtaposition that will make each gift look up to date. Don’t be afraid to use rustic raffia with a sheet of metallic paper, or to pair a length of luxurious silk ribbon with a roll of brown kraft paper. Finish with a meaningful flourish, such as a hand-pressed flower or a sprig of fresh fir.

6 HOST A MOVIE NIGHT

Turn a cosy evening at home into a film night to remember. Set up tepees for children and layer up cushions and blankets on the sofa for grown-ups. Prepare a treat-filled snack station with hot chocolate, marshmallows and individual jars of popcorn to delight viewers of all ages.

7 LAY THE TABLE

Set the scene for your festive feast with a celebratory tablescape. Cheerfully hued cutlery, vibrant recycled glassware and handcrafted scalloped dinner plates are sure to create convivial place settings. Silk streamers, playfully suspended above the table, and whimsical favours, stored invitingly in individual party bags on the back of each chair, make charming finishing touches.

Tissue paper fan garland, £8.99; market bag, £32: both The Danes. Paper chains, £12, C