AS YOU BEGIN TO PREPARE YOUR HOME FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON, WE TALK TO JOHAN KRIEL-JONES, CONCEPT MANAGER AT MARINA HOME INTERIORS FOR TIPS AND TRICKS ON HOW TO DECORATE AND DRESS YOUR HOME TO PERFECTION.
What are the rules you live by for decorating your home for the festive period?
First and foremost, you must always have fun. It’s the time of year when families are reunited and the year-end is celebrated. In my own home we start with the tree, this year we are decorating a contemporary Lushy White tree. We carry the theme of festive across our entire home, from the front door pine cone wreath to scented candles in coloured glass votives. Our little secret is to incorporate new beautiful decorations with some of the vintage pieces we’ve collected over the years.
What festive trends can we expect to see this year?
There are so many beautiful festive trends this year, it’s difficult to choose only one. Woodland Dreams must be the one trend that resonated with us the most. This contemporary trend; infuses snow frosted decor with rich dark tones, like navy blue, rich taupe, and gloss finished Lapis Lazuli pieces. It is easy to incorporate traditional pieces with this trend yet keeping it updated by using the new tones available in so many different decorations.
What are you tips for dressing a Christmas table?
Start by picking a theme for your table. Having a defined colour scheme not only makes the table look extra special but adds a polished look. If you’re not sure what style to go for, classic red, green or gold always adds a traditional look, while frosty silver and white looks cool crisp and fresh. Ensure your table is the centre of attention with a striking centrepiece. For a quick and easy touch, a festive wreath can sit in the centre of the table filled with candles. Pick sturdy pillar candles in varying sizes on a heatproof mat. Complete the centrepiece with short “conversation starting” decorative elements, that are fun and quirky.
What is the secret to ensuring your home doesn’t look too cluttered over the festive season?
As long as there are key focal points in your home then I believe there is never “too much” at Christmas. If you have a small space then choose a tree that is correct in scale and height. Style the tree to ensure it’s the focal point of your room. You can complement the rest of the room then by going sparingly elsewhere with decorations.
A fake tree or a real tree?
Green trees are a real Christmas staple and you can do whatever you want to them, making them as traditional or modern as you’d like. I love a real Christmas tree – the texture, smell, and fact that their shape is not always perfect is just beautiful. That said, faux is having a real moment and the quality of our faux trees are amazing. Living in our desert climate faux trees is the way to go, they are easy to install and pack away again. The variety and finish of faux trees are unbelievable and have undoubtedly become my tree of choice. And they look fab!
What tips do you have for the minimalist decorator?
When creating a minimalist Christmas setting, focus on only the essentials. I adore our traditional green Christmas trees, featuring simple white lights and a few snowflakes. While I love grand, elaborate trees as much as the next person, this look is calming and inviting without all the extra trimming. I especially like it paired with a simple evergreen wreath and a cosy faux fur throw, giving your living room a distinctly contemporary feel.
