Return to the simple things this festive season: a table decorated to evoke a sense of comfort and nostalgia, a humble colour palette, and homespun decorations that weave in the wild spirit of nature.
A large, twiggy branch found on a forest walk has been appropriated as an eco-friendly, sculptural Christmas tree. Strung with twinkling rice lights and hand-carved bird figurines used as ornaments, the tree has an enigmatic, fairytale quality to it.
• Place a similar branch into a wooden basket (left) and secure in place using kindling or firewood to emphasise the natural woodland theme.
• An abundance of battery-operated rice or fairy lights (above) is always a good idea to emphasise the spirit of Christmas cheer and serve as whimsical, ambient lighting at night.
• A tray (above) is a classic way to display a moody decorative vignette, here containing a selection of gifts found in nature: various bird nests, twigs, a collection of beautiful egg shells and, for atmosphere, tea light candles.
In keeping with the humble simplicity of the greater decorative scheme, gifts have been wrapped in white butcher’s paper and tissue paper. Haberdashery ribbon in shades of cocoa and vanilla, as well as string, add the finishing touches.
For some, a wreath is purely decorative, for others, it’s infused with rich meaning and symbolism. Either way, the wreath is synonymous with Christmas and is an essential element of seasonal decorating. This wreath was made by hand using found twigs and fynbos (wild heath).
• Craft your own rustic wreath from bendy twigs such as willow or weeping/silver birch using secateurs to cut lengths, scissors for trimming, and natural twine for binding into shape.
The colour palette has been kept warm and neutral – inspired by old-school tradition, winter woodlands, and a rustic farmhouse aesthetic.
A sense of the super (natural) things to come begins in the hallway. An often overlooked area in the home, it takes only a few basic elements to create a welcoming landing zone. Think pieces such as a secondhand hallway table or butler’s tray, a mirror, baskets, a few framed prints, and a personalised display of objects, books, figurines and found treasures.
• Carved bird figurines that have been painted white are a whimsical addition to a rustic wreath, and in keeping with the avian theme.
• Draw the eye inside with lights. Here, fairy lights – the archetypal symbol of Christmas are wound around the balustrade of the staircase.
The bird theme has beaten its way into this tranquil bedroom. Although stripped of high definition colour, the palette is still rich and inviting, a balanced composition of neutrals like whites and greys anchored by deep, delicious browns and accents of black.
• Several nests (above left), found on walks in the forest, add a sense of natural curiosity and organic texture to a bedroom setting.
• A scientific reference book (above left), framed illustrations of birds, as well as lino cut printed cards reinforce the themes of nature and objects that have been crafted by hand.
• The well-worn patina of the bedside table (above left) is a reminder that there is much beauty and character to be found in aged, imperfect objects.
• Though aesthetically pared-down, flourishes of luxury can be found in the form of French linen bedding, scented candles, and a hot glass of herbal tea (above left).
Cosy and atmospheric, this inviting area of the living room (pictured right) illustrates that a largely monochromatic interior can be warm, engaging and characterful thanks to the inclusion of vintage, organic and rustic elements.
• Try your hand at handicrafts: knitting, crochet, embroidery and more. The online world is filled with tutorials and inspiration.
• Visit your local haberdashery and craft shops for supplies and seek out a neighbourhood craft group.
A fireplace mantlepiece offers myriad styling opportunities and can be easily transformed for seasonal decorating.
• The vintage tablecloth, though pretty, is in keeping with the timeless aesthetic and wholesome, muted colours.
• Layering crockery is a tried-and-tested stylist’s trick and results in a visually interesting table setting.
• There is an appealing aesthetic tension between the matt finish of the handmade crockery and the polished silver flatware.
• Christmas, even when it’s pared-down, demands a touch of sparkle. Tea light candles, votives, fairy lights and the glint coming off vintage drinking glasses take over from traditional baubles and tinsel.
• Treat each guest to a small take-home gift. Mark them with each person’s name to serve as place holders.
• The table is anchored by a loosely composed centrepiece consisting of wild bird eggshells, nests, and a tangle of foraged twigs and branches.
Words — Mandy Allen
Styling — Shelley Street
Photographs — Warren Heath
