The holiday season is here, and one of the most exciting parts of decorating is deciding where to place your Christmas tree. Of course, as interior designers, we always approach this decision with a crucial eye. More than just a festive centerpiece, your Christmas tree sets the tone for your home’s holiday spirit and becomes the backdrop for all of your special holiday memories. But where should it go? As a team of interior designers, we share expert tips to guide you.
Consider the Flow of the Room
Like most aspects of home decor, the first step in deciding on a spot is understanding how the space is used. A Christmas tree is beautiful, but if it disrupts the flow of your room, it can quickly become an inconvenience. We recommend not placing your tree in high-traffic areas like the middle of the living room or next to doorways. Instead, try to find a location that blends seamlessly into the rest of your space. Corners are typically ideal, as they naturally frame the tree without obstructing any high-traffic pathways. Position the tree where it can be admired from all angles, such as near a window or visible from the main seating area.
Let the Light Be Your Guide
The best part of a Christmas tree is its twinkling lights and sparkly ornaments. Make sure to show those things off! In order to make the most of this festive light, place your tree in a spot that complements the surrounding lighting in your home. Placing your tree near a window is a great way to enjoy its glow both inside and out. From the street, the tree becomes a festive feature for neighbors to admire, while inside, it casts a warm and cozy glow throughout the room. Avoid locations with harsh overhead lights that might overshadow the tree’s sparkle. If needed, adjust your room’s lighting to create an effect that’s both cozy and magical.
Make the Tree the Focal Point
During this time of year, your Christmas tree is often the centerpiece of your holiday decor. In many homes, the living room is the best and most common spot for Christmas tree placement. Position the tree in a focal corner of the seating area to make it the star of your holiday gatherings. If your living room has a fireplace, placing the tree near the fireplace creates a holiday scene straight from a Nancy Meyers movie.
With that being said, you don’t need to feel limited to your living room! A smaller tree in the dining room can elevate your holiday meals, while a slim tree in the entryway can be a festive first impression for guests.
Select the Right Size for the Space
The size of your Christmas tree should suit the proportions of your room. Many of us have seen the hilarious scene from Elf where Buddy brought in a tree that was way too big for the space.
A massive tree in a small space can feel overwhelming, while a small tree in a large room might look underwhelming. When selecting your tree, aim for a tree that leaves six to twelve inches of space between its top and the ceiling, including the topper. This ensures the tree fits well and looks balanced.
If your room is limited on space, consider a slim or pencil-style tree. These options provide the festive feel of a Christmas tree without taking up too much room. There are many modern options for Christmas trees today that work well in smaller spaces.
Complement Your Decor
To make your tree feel like an integral part of your home, coordinate its decor with your existing decor style. For a home with earthy tones or neutral colors, decorate your tree with ornaments and accessories in complementary hues like gold, silver, or natural wood. Incorporate textures already present in your space. For example, a room with wood accents could feature wooden ornaments or a wicker basket tree collar to tie the look together. When the tree reflects your home’s aesthetic, it feels intentional and cohesive, which is what we’re all about here at Pamela Hope Designs.
Safety First
While the look of your tree is important, safety should always come first. Keep your tree away from fireplaces, radiators, and heating vents to prevent it from drying out or becoming a fire hazard. Make sure the tree stand is sturdy and secure, especially if you have children or pets who might accidentally knock it over. If you’re using string lights, take a close look to ensure that there is no damage. We also recommend doing your best to avoid overloading outlets. A surge protector is a good idea to ensure electrical safety during the holiday season.
Make it a Family Decision
Deciding on a location for the Christmas tree can be a wonderful family tradition. Involving everyone in the decision adds meaning to the process. For families with children, consider adding a small tree in their bedroom or playroom to scatter a festive feel all around the home. This gives kids their own piece of holiday magic to decorate, enjoy, and remember. In open-concept homes, use the tree as a divider between spaces. For example, placing it between the living and dining areas can bring holiday cheer to multiple zones, while also giving the home a little bit of a different feel for a season.
Get Creative in Small Spaces
If you’re living in a smaller space, like a condo or an apartment, there are plenty of creative alternatives to a traditional full-sized tree. A wall-mounted tree made from garland, lights, or other materials can mimic the look of a tree without taking up any floor space. Tabletop trees are another excellent option. They are perfect for small apartments or homes and can be placed on coffee tables, sideboards, or even a bar cart. There are countless ways to make your smaller space feel festive and special without imposing on your living space.
Highlight the Unique Features of Your Home
Your home’s architectural details can help determine your Christmas tree’s best spot. Bay windows and alcoves provide the perfect frame for your tree, drawing attention to it as a centerpiece. In homes with double-height ceilings, an extra-tall tree can emphasize the grandeur of the space. Using oversized ornaments or dramatic lighting enhances this effect, creating a show-stopping focal point.
Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment!
There are no rules when it comes to home decor. It’s all about expressing yourself. Sometimes, finding the perfect spot takes a bit of trial and error, and what’s wrong with changing your mind? If the first location you select for your tree doesn’t feel quite right, try repositioning it until it works with the flow and feel of the room. If you’ve been placing the tree in the same spot year after year, consider switching it up! A fresh location can rejuvenate your holiday decor and bring a new sense of excitement to your celebrations.
The Final Touch
Ultimately, the best place for your Christmas tree is one that brings joy and warmth to your home. By considering factors like room flow, lighting, proportions, and safety, you can create a festive focal point that enhances your holiday season. But don’t overthink it! Whether you’re working with a cozy apartment or a spacious home, the magic of Christmas lies in the memories made around the tree.
Happy decorating, and may your holidays be merry and bright! If you need some inspiration, give us a call, and we’ll help you find it.
