Nothing sets us in the festive spirit more than Christmas decor. (Bob Dylan’s album is a close competitor, but decoration really wins). And because the living room is at the heart of most Christmas festivities—you know, special deliveries from Santa and watching Hallmark holiday movies with the family—this is where we love to go big on Christmas decorations.
Many of us have decorating traditions that we’ve been seeing in our homes since childhood. Some of these hold sentimental value, so sticking to them is a good idea. But for the traditional green and red decorations, well, why not try something new? We mean decor ideas that make the home feel more modern and relevant today.
Keep reading for the 10 best Christmas living room decor ideas; upgrading to these will be easy 😉
Make Room for Garlands… Everywhere
Garlands aren’t just for the mantel. You can use them around your curtains or staircases. Even your TV stand! And wrapping them with twinkling lights ups the festive factor by 100%.
When it comes to winter foliage, however, you want to pay close attention to the color. For a more modern look, use eucalyptus or berried eucalyptus. Pine is great for that cozy feel (plus it smells gorgeous). If you’re looking for something darker, you can consider Ruscus or Ivy. And to make that garland the focal point, go ahead and mix up light and dark!
Be Honest About Your Space
Price: $375
Shop: Bed Bath and Beyond
The average household keeps their Christmas decor up for over a month. This means having an extra large tree in a small living may not be the best idea. But because the star of the show is the Christmas tree, you can’t really skip it completely.
Instead, consider a stout tree tucked away in a corner. Or, actually, why not flip the script? Create a unique statement with an upside-down tree. This utilizes vertical space (and frees up your valuable floorspace). No more tiptoeing in compact corners 😉 Also, you want to make sure your wreaths and garlands sit up and away from the floor.
Go for the Modern Scandi Look
Price: $76
Shop: My Magic Carpet
Scandinavian design can be seen in homes throughout the year, but it really takes the throne during Christmas (when we’d ideally retreat to snow-tipped wooden cabins with burning fires and cowhide rugs). We see this through a cozy design scheme. Think a palette of soft neutrals and natural textures added through subtly blue damask rugs and hand-knit stockings.
Also, did you know Scandinavian decor embraces “hygge” which means comfort and coziness? Moral of the story: don’t be afraid to pile on the throw pillows!
Make the Mantel White
Green garlands and candlesticks have been used for the mantel for years… Why not switch things up this time around and create a winter wonderland? We’re talking about a white floral garland paired with a white Christmas village (like this one) and flocked bottle brush trees. You can also always make some room for candles.
Also—if you’ve got some rolled-up sleeves, you can even create your very own Christmas garland (don’t hesitate to customize it as you like).
Capture Attention with the Lighting
Twinkle lights are a must, sure. But this year, go big or go home with statement lighting. Create a show-stopper in your living room with oversized paper stars. We also love marquee lights spelling out festive words. Or perhaps a chandelier with gold leafy motifs—like the Laurel 7-Light Island Pendant (this one will last post-Christmas, too). And you know what that means: you’ll finally have the perfect lighting for those Christmas selfies. You’re welcome!
Add Glam with Metallics
Price: $850
Shop: 25 Home
Full tinsel overloads may be a thing of the past. In Christmas living room decor trends 2024, we see subtle sparkle through metallics; think silver, gold, and rose gold. In this regard. metallic pillows, vases, and ornaments can catch the light beautifully and add some glamour that doesn’t scream for attention. If you’re in for a statement, consider a gold coffee table—paired with a sintered stone-top piece.
Warning: Your guests may get blinded by the sparkle. (Okay, not really, but it’ll look that good).
Make the Ornaments Float
Why keep your baubles confined to the tree? We love some ornaments hanging from the ceiling, using either a fishing line—which will blend into the space—or ribbon to make a statement. No matter which option you choose, think of it like your very own floating winter wonderland.
A random though: Maybe, just maybe, don’t stand directly under them if your cat’s feeling particularly mischievous 😉
Make Your Gallery Wall Christmassy
If you tend to go all out with gallery walls—Christmas is the time to switch it up for something unique (read: seasonal). Combine:
Framed holiday quotes
Wintery landscapes
And some fun family holiday photos
… for a wall that is personalized to YOU.
Feeling crafty? You can even DIY some of the prints with gold foil and festive typography. This makes the space merry and sets your home apart from the rest.
Dress the Sofa
Price: $1,989
Shop: Homary
Xmas is the sofa’s moment to shine! We’re especially big fans of switching out the soft accessories as the seasons change. But did you know you don’t necessarily have to use cushion covers and throws full of holiday motifs? A simple change in the color palette to warmer burgundies or metallics would do the trick.
Also, because velvet is the fabric of the season (it sure doesn’t get more luxe), we recommend opting for rich velvet pillows. To tie the space together, consider a velvet tree skirt.
If you’re looking for a new sofa, you might as well take the opportunity to shop for the velvet sofa featured above. Its emerald green tones and gold legs are just what we look for in a head-turning piece that’s perfect for Christmas—and beyond!
Replicate a Cozy Cabin Ambiance
Christmas in the mountains sure sounds like a dream… but, let’s face it. Most of us are stuck in the city. No worries, though! You can recreate a cozy cabin ambiance—minus the frostbite—in your home with some faux fur throws and plaid cushions. Woodsy accents, like exposed logs in the fireplace, will instantly bring in a nice and cozy cabin vibe. LED candles also help mimic that warm cabin glow.