The holiday season is a time to gather, reflect, and celebrate—and for those of us who love beautiful spaces, it’s also a chance to transform our homes into something truly magical. In the North Hills of Pittsburgh, where stately architecture meets timeless design, holiday décor should feel just as refined as the homes it graces.
Whether you’re hosting a formal dinner party in Treesdale or welcoming family to your Pine Township estate, your seasonal styling should reflect the sophistication of your space. Here are my go-to holiday decorating dos and don’ts to help you create a look that’s festive, polished, and unmistakably yours.
Do: Choose a Tailored Color Palette
Traditional red and green may be nostalgic, but they’re not always the best fit for a luxury interior. Instead, consider a palette that complements your home’s architecture and finishes. Think deep emerald and champagne, navy and silver, or soft ivory with brushed gold. A cohesive color story creates a sense of harmony and elevates every room it touches.
Don’t: Settle for Disposable Décor
In a well-appointed home, every detail should feel intentional—and holiday décor is no exception. Rather than filling your space with mass-produced plastic pieces that will be discarded by January, consider investing in timeless, well-crafted accents that elevate your seasonal aesthetic year after year.
Think hand-carved wooden ornaments, artisan-made garlands, or heirloom-quality candleholders in brass or crystal. These pieces not only add depth and texture to your holiday look, but they also reflect a sense of permanence and care that aligns with a more refined lifestyle. Quality materials age beautifully, and over time, they become part of your family’s tradition—adding meaning as well as elegance to your celebrations.
Do: Layer in Natural Elements
Fresh greenery is a hallmark of elegant holiday design. Beyond the tree, consider garlands of cedar or fir draped along staircases, rosemary sprigs in vases, or pinecones nestled into centerpieces. These organic touches bring texture, fragrance, and a sense of understated luxury to your home.
Don’t: Overlook the Details
A grand tree is lovely, but true elegance lies in the details. Style your entry console with a curated bowl of ornaments, add a touch of sparkle to your powder room with a small floral arrangement, or place a few mercury glass votives on your mantel. Repeating a material—like antique gold or cut crystal—throughout your home creates visual continuity and quiet sophistication.
Do: Embrace Texture and Warmth
Luxury isn’t just about how a space looks—it’s about how it feels. Layer in cozy textures like cashmere throws, velvet pillows, and faux fur accents. These tactile elements invite guests to relax and linger, and they add depth to your holiday palette.
Don’t: Sacrifice Safety for Style
Even the most beautiful décor should be safe. Use LED lights to reduce heat, keep flammable materials away from open flames, and have your fireplace professionally inspected before lighting that first cozy fire. Flameless candles can offer the same ambiance with added peace of mind.
Do: Edit with Intention
In luxury design, restraint is powerful. Focus on a few key areas—your entryway, dining room, and living space—and let each one shine. Avoid visual clutter by limiting your palette and repeating materials thoughtfully. A well-edited home feels curated, not crowded.
Don’t: Follow Trends Blindly
Your holiday décor should reflect your personal style—not just what’s trending. Love the charm of vintage ornaments? Showcase them with pride. Prefer a minimalist Scandinavian look? Keep it clean and serene. The most elegant homes are the ones that feel authentic and lived-in, even during the most festive season.
Final Thoughts
The holidays are a time to celebrate beauty, tradition, and togetherness—and your home should reflect that. Whether you’re hosting a black-tie soirée or enjoying quiet evenings by the fire, your décor can set the tone for a season filled with warmth and grace.