You can branch out this Christmas

Yorkshire Post Mid-Week Life & Style Section - Weds 8th Dec 2010

Interiors

Christmas is coming, but even if you do not have much roomyou do not have to compromise on style. Award winning interior designer Jamie Hempsall looks at the chic alternatives to a traditional tree for those who are challenged for space!

In most UK homes the focal point for the festive decoration scheme is a real or faux pine tree in the main family room, richly decorated and brightly lit. However, these often require a revised room layout during December to accommodate this extra “piece of furniture”. In fact, one of the first questions we are often asked by clients after we have completed a sitting room is where should we place the Christmas tree?

Many homes can cope with a little seasonal re-adjustment, but in small homes where space is of a premium the area taken up by these trees can be a significant issue. The main problem with the traditional shape is that lower branches take up a considerable amount of space.

Unfortunately, a small traditional pine often looks like you are using the top that has been cut off a reasonably sized tree and can make a disappointing central piece. So if you only have a small area to occupy think more laterally and opt for a festive tree substitute that packs maximum design impact whilst occupying minimal space.

It is important that your Christmas tree and place it centrally. Then clear away any other decorative items in the vicinity so that the space your tree occupies is clear of other visual disturbance. This will ensure that your choice dominates the area; when space is a premium less is definitely more!

My favourite decoration for this type of location is the Bright Button Tabletop Mini Tree which stands at 29cm. The tree is decorated entirely in tiny red, green and white buttons and looks like something Santa’s elves might have created (£21.99 – The Contemporary Home; www.tch.net or 02392 469400).

Alternatively, the White Metal Christmas Tree Decoration from Berry Red features tea-lights and bauble decorations in a modern design which retains a traditional feel. Obviously, care needs to be taken around lit candles which I would never leave unattended (£60 – www.berryred.co.uk; 01432 274805).

If you have some wall space and want to create a focal point for presents then a removable wall sticker can be a brilliant option. The look is definitely striking and works particularly well in a modern environment. Stickers are also a nice option in a children’s bedroom if you want to make their space feel more Christmassy.

The Christmas Tree Wall Sticker from Spin Collective, available in 16 vibrant colours, has a wonderful contemporary cartoon feel to it and is 100cm high (£20 - www.spincollective.co.uk; 01242 255244).

If you like this idea and fancy making the tree a permanent fixture then Love Mae have launched the Decorative Christmas Tree vn a Re-usable Wall Decal – a bit of a mouthful, but a wonderful product. The tree can be left with leaves all year round and then Christmas decorations can be added for the Festive time of the year. The decorations can be removed, cleaned and re-applied again – perfect for creating your own look and for re-use (£50; www.garrendennylane.com – 00 353 86 1051007).

For a modern full size tree ainly one I will be looking to make (ww.asda.co.uk).

Jamie Hempsall is winner of Best Interior Design – North East 2010 in the UK Property Awards in association with Bloomberg Television. Contact him on 0800 0321 180 or via www.jamiehempsall.com