Deck the halls with festive flair!

Yorkshire Post - 5th December 2007 - Life & Style Section: Homes

Interiors

Whether its minimalist chic or cluttered eclectic kitsch you favour Jamie Hempsall has tips on decorating your home this Christmas.


I am not intending to tell you how to decorate your house for Christmas –this is a time for individual expressionism. Nothing is “in” or “out”: everyone should do as much or as little at they please, be it a perfectly co-ordinated decorative scheme with matching ornaments and colours or a wildly eclectic mix of kitsch.

Our household tradition begins with each family member buying a new decoration. Unpacking the old decorations starts a wonderful evening of treasured anecdotes as we each recall why we chose some hideous monstrosity when we were five, but after adjudication on which to retire (quite a trial with many pleas and counter arguments!), finishes with a wonderful “hotch potch” tree laden with memories.

The High Street is awash with interesting decorations, at all price points, and I have chosen some of my favourites for you.

Asda have a colourful range of “Circus” Baubles featuring whacky shapes in bright purples and oranges, whilst the more traditional may enjoy their “Hotel” range in an array of muted silvers, with a myriad of finishes for that slight “contemporary twist” – prices start at £1.47.

The Jellycat Sparkling Fairy (£5.95) from John Lewis is sure to be a hit with little princesses everywhere. Their jewelled Pearlescent Tassel (£5) looks to have been transported straight from the Kasbah and a pack of 3D Stars in Fuchsia & Lime (£5 for a set of 12) is perfect for those with a funky theme.

For a contemporary gold and black theme, with an extra treat, opt for Chocolate Baubles from M&S a tin exterior which can be reused filled with Swiss milk chocolates (£3.50). Their Elegant Wire Cone (£3.50) will add a touch of glamour to any tree.

When it comes to trees, nothing evokes the spirit (or smell) of Christmas like a traditional pine, but there are many top then the 36cm high Festive Berry Tree with lights from M&S (£15) could be your mini answer! However, the ultimate take on space saving has to be the 6ft Upside Down Tree from John Lewis (£75), which makes surprisingly good sense: plenty of room for presents and decorations do not get caught on lower branches.

Finally, the wreath: the sign of welcome to all. My three favourites have a less traditional feel, but bags of style. Check out the Platinum Fern Wreath from M&S (£15), the incredibly priced Purple Peacock Wreath from Asda (£8.97) or the wonderfully decadent Peacock Feather Wreath from John Lewis (£25). Not for the faint hearted, but sure to invoke plenty of Christmas cheer.

More about Jamie Hempsall and his work can be found at www.jamiehempsall.com