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Holiday

Join Us for a Rustic Christmas Home Tour!

How We Transformed this Cabin for the Holidays

Getting into the Christmas spirit often begins with thoughts of twinkling lights, fragrant pine, and the joy of decking the halls. Whether you’re diving head first into decorating or simply laying out all the possibilities, join us for an exclusive tour through the cozy, rustic wonderland of @CabinRancho72. It’s all dolled up for our holiday giveaway! 

When it comes to decorating your space, it’s all about letting your personal style shine through. There’s no ‘one size fits all’ in holiday decorating; it’s about infusing your unique touch into every corner. We’ll be sharing some tips and tricks that have helped us bring our festive vision to life, ones that can easily spruce up any home regardless of its style. And in our opinion, embracing your home’s style is key. We’ve sprinkled in winter mountain vibes, festive touches, and a whole lot of warmth to make it feel just like home sweet home. But don’t worry, these tips are versatile enough to sprinkle a bit of holiday magic into any space. So, keep reading as we offer links to buy everything we used to style this cabin for the holiday season!

Now, about colors – let’s chat! As someone whose holiday palette has gone through its own evolution (from the classic green and red to a mix of chocolate brown, ivory, and forest green), I can vouch for the power of sticking to a color scheme. Starting with a simple color base, then adding complimentary tones that flow throughout your home ties everything together. So, whether you’re a traditionalist or a bit more eclectic in your color choices, the key is to embrace those shades and let them flow cohesively and naturally. 

Christmas Mantle Magic

The mantle is like the centerpiece of holiday décor – it sets the tone for the whole room. To nail that cozy, rustic feel, it’s all about the trifecta: stockings, greenery, and other décor items like these hanging bells. Now, let’s talk Christmas stockings: opting for unique, patterned, or textured ones can truly elevate the vibe. We stumbled upon these vintage treasures on Etsy, and they fit the cabin aesthetic like a glove. Finding those special pieces adds that eclectic touch that makes your mantle pop with personality. 

Clouz Houz tip: When it comes to faux greenery, the secret’s in the fluff! You’ve got to work those branches to make them look as natural as possible. Pull, bend, and adjust your garland or wreath to give it that full, lush appearance. By adding some sprigs of real greenery here and there, you’ll get a beautiful, realistic-looking, full garland.

Feeling extra festive? Go all out with the garland! Sometimes, one just won’t cut it. Don’t hesitate to layer multiple garlands to achieve that luxurious, full look along the mantle. It’s all about creating visual abundance that screams fake luxury. If you don’t have a mantle to work with, no worries! Think outside the box – consider utilizing other horizontal spaces, like a console table or shelves flanking your fireplace. It’s about making the most of what you’ve got to spread Christmas cheer throughout your space. 

 

Coffee Table Talk – Chic Simplicity, Always

Bringing the outdoors in is a key move when it comes to coffee table décor. A vase filled with your favorite sprigs or branches, or a bowl adorned with pomegranates or pears instantly adds that natural touch. Our secret? Mixing different types of greenery, playing with varying thickness and textures, to break up the visual monotony and infuse depth into the setting. 

Remember, let’s not overcrowd the table … it’s the hotspot for treats and snacks during gatherings, after all! So, keep it simple yet stylish. A couple of well-chosen books, candles, and small decorative pieces (like a magnifying glass) are all you need. 

 

Transforming Your Christmas Tree with Glowing Accents

When it comes to tree décor, we like to stick to simple with a dash of standout style. This year, we chose to drench the tree in playful copper tinsel. And when I say drench, I mean DRENCH!! Not only did it make the tree literally glow, but it also filled in the spaces, providing that WOW factor. This trick also left us without the hassle of needing to store loads of ornaments post-holiday. To enhance the sparkle, we sprinkled in white paper snowflake ornaments, adding that extra pop of luminosity.

Of course, what’s a tree without lights? String lights are a must, ensuring that your tree shines bright. This creates a cozy vibe in any space. I’m all about the brilliance of white lights; they truly make the tree come alive! However, string lights can be such a pain to keep from getting tangled. This pre-lit faux Christmas tree that we used up at the cabin was a gem to assemble.  

Now, forget the conventional tree skirt and opt for something different! A vintage planter or basket not only elevates your tree but also adds height and space for Santa’s surprises. Last year, we used a chic tree collar that elevated our décor game. This year, we got creative with a wicker basket, placing the tree snugly inside. World Market has an endless variety of baskets which are perfect for this concept!

Clouz Houz tip: Let your gift wrapping harmonize with your space’s color palette. Stick to one solid paper and one patterned, perhaps a festive plaid or stripes, paired with coordinating ribbon colors. Double-sided satin ribbon elevates the entire presentation of these presents we wrapped for the shoot, especially when paired with rustic papers like deep green butcher paper and a red satin ribbon. Classic, yet oh-so elegant. 

 

Elevating Your Space with Art, Greenery, and Cozy Comforts

Elevate your space with art — it’s the magical touch that can warm up a winter cabin. It’s not about size or cost; simply framing small prints and scattering them strategically around your home does wonders. These little artworks infuse that wintery charm, creating the perfect cabin vibe. The one we sourced is a vintage Slim Aarons print, which was a bit of a splurge from a local shop Borgo Rosati. To up the coziness, infuse a touch of sparkle into your greenery. These are by far some of the best quality faux wreaths I’ve every come across. All from Terrain, and they come in varying sizes. We also ran the same pre-lit faux garland all the way up the stairs. Trust me, those twinkling lights will instantly add warmth to your space. Add a cluster of hanging iron bells to give the scene some charm and you’re good to go!

Now, onto the essentials for those snug moments by the fireplace: the fluffiest blankets! There’s nothing quite like curling up with a soft throw during those holiday movie nights. Layer in a couple of these snug essentials to keep you and your guests warm and toasty. 

 

Elevate Your Table Game

No need to go searching for all new tableware to achieve this rustic feel. It’s all about subtle shifts from your tried and true décor, so consider purchasing just one new item. These charming rustic winter setting plates from Pottery Barn will spruce things up! Also, these sheepskin throws are essential for layering even more texture. Stick with your classic china, silverware and linen napkins for those special occasions, and your trusted water goblets to maintain that touch of familiarity and tradition. 

Now, let’s talk about ambiance! Frame the scene with elegant candle holders that cast a warm glow across your table. And, here’s a pro-tip for a stunning centerpiece: gather natural and organic materials right from your backyard. Pinecones, evergreen sprigs, or even dried berries can effortlessly come together to create a centerpiece that exudes rustic charm and festive spirit. If I don’t emphasize this enough, it’s all about embracing nature’s beauty to add that touch of cabin elegance to your table. 

 

Effortless Kitchen Chic: Keeping the Heart of Your Home Party-Ready

In the midst of all the holiday hustle, we’ve cracked the code for a clutter-free yet festive kitchen. Behold, the hot cocoa station – a seasonal staple that adds warmth to the chilly days. We found the cutest jars over at Boxwood Avenue for storing hot cocoa mix (use code ClouzHouz for 10% off site wide)! Decorative mugs standing at the ready, surrounded by these modern and petite chestnut trees perched on shelves. They bring that touch of Christmas magic without gobbling up precious counter space. And, I’m in love with taper holders for a more old-school feel.

Here’s the genius part – it’s all about smart décor that seamlessly blends into your day-to-day routine. This setup utilizes cabinets and shelves to their fullest potential, ensuring both tidiness and a festive touch. If you’re trying to maximize space in a tight kitchen, baskets filled with seasonal fruits – think clove-studded oranges and maybe some apples – pull double duty as decorations and aroma enhancers. Trust me, your home will smell fresh and look festive! 

A kitchen counter wouldn’t be properly styled without a sleek dutch oven … the ultimate cherry on top (this one is a Le Creuset dupe from Target)! Perfect for simmering a seasonal potpourri.

 

Seasonal Shelf Styling

If I haven’t said it enough … greenery!! This potted tree was essential for bringing texture into the kitchen, along with these faux cedar stems that I mixed in to fill the gaps. A touch of seasonal elegance only takes a few added elements to transform your everyday décor into a seasonal refresh. Subtle, yet, impactful decorations breathe life into your shelves without overpowering the natural vibes. Picture a lineup of of these candle houses or  miniature cream bottle brush trees – simple, classic, and chic! Embrace the vintage and timeless appeal, steering clear of anything too cliché or overly festive. 

 

Crafting Cozy Christmas Nooks

Ah, the joy of creating those snug, inviting corners in your home! Whether it’s a comfy seating area or a stylish bar station ready to shake up some festive cocktails, the canvas for adding a holiday flair knows no bounds. 

Let’s start with your seating — transform those chairs or couches with the addition of seasonal pillows. These super soft bouclé shams are such a good deal! These subtle accents instantly infuse the space with warmth, making it inviting everyone to sink in and enjoy. 

Now, onto the bar cart – the hub of holiday cheer. Here, the magic of the season meets mixology mastery. Picture this: a stylish bar cart adorned with an array of your favorite holiday mixers. Add a touch of sophistication with leather or wood accents to your bar tools, shakers, and ice buckets. Mix in a couple micro spruce trees (these are so adorable) which act as a nice backdrop with their ceramic pots. Lastly, drape this adorable tea towel with skiers over the arm of your bar cart to give it a fun twist. Trust me, there’s a magnetic pull when it comes to the wine and bubbly corner during a Christmas party; it’s the heart of social gatherings. 

As we wrap up our holiday decorating adventure at the cabin, we’re thrilled at how this cozy haven has transformed into a winter sanctuary. We hope you guys love the final look as much as we do! And a huge shoutout to Zee Wendell Photography for capturing all the beautiful moments this day.

Here’s to celebrating the holidays in style and spreading that merry feeling. Thanks for following along! 

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After designing and remodeling so many kitchens, here are 5 mistakes I’II never make again:
1. Not taking cabinetry to the ceiling.
That awkward gap collects dust and instantly makes a kitchen feel builder-grade. Full-height cabinetry feels intentional and custom.
2. Forgetting landing space.
Every appliance needs a place to land. No counter next to the fridge or range = daily frustration.
3. Using the same cabinet hardware knobs and pulls throughout. Mix styles for interest (I can’t wait to share what I’ve picked for our new kitchen)
4. Underestimating drawer storage.
Drawers > lower cabinets. Always. Deep drawers for pots, pans, and dishes change everything. I hate digging through cabinet shelving!
5. Relying on one overhead light.
Layered lighting (pendants, cabinet lighting, sconces) is what makes a kitchen feel warm and personal.
If you’re planning a remodel, save this for later🤍 Sharing cabinet and counter details soon!
We painted our dining room pink... and I’d do it again in a heartbeat.
This is Setting Plaster by @farrowandball, and it completely transformed our dining room at the Sixth Street Bungalow in Columbia, Tennessee. It’s not bubblegum. 
It’s not trendy. Joa Studholme, one of color curators at F & B created this beautiful hue when she discovered the beauty in her home with freshly plastered walls. And I just love it!
Depending on the light, it shifts from soft blush to a muted clay tone, which makes the room feel romantic and cozy without feeling overly sweet. I love how it warms up the wood floors. As Joa explains, it feels like a big hug!
If you’ve been nervous to step away from white, this is your sign.
Save this for your paint list and share it with someone who would absolutely love this color.
Share with someone who needs to hear this!!
I didn’t fully understand this early in my career. I thought good design was 90% about pulling together beautiful finishes and getting the palette right.
But over time (and after walking through many homes), here’s what I noticed:
The homes that felt the best weren’t always the most expensive. Or the most styled. They were the ones where everything worked together in a way that supported the people living there. And the homeowners? They weren’t constantly tweaking or second-guessing. They were living.
That’s when I realized design is about creating a space that quietly holds you.
When a home feels right, you can’t always explain why. But you feel it immediately. And once you feel it, you can’t un-feel it.
Spring is officially here!
We’re kicking off the season with The March Edit - now live.
Think of it as a little peek into what we’re loving right now... what we’re noticing, bookmarking, wearing, cooking, reading, and saving for projects. This month feels fresh and full of ideas, and I’m leaning all the way in.
I’m also introducing more of the team and sharing a few of the things we’re personally obsessing over lately — from design to everyday life. It’s a little more journal-style this time, and I kind of love it.
If you want to see what we’re manifesting for spring (and maybe find a few new favorites of your own), head to the blog and read the full March Edit. (link in bio)
People always think design starts with picking the sofa or paint color... but honestly, so much of our process lives in the tiny details.
A room doesn’t become you until it’s styled with intention. That’s why we spend time learning how you move through your day, what objects matter, where your eye naturally lands.
When we work with clients, we don’t just drop furniture into a floor plan. We design the feeling - the quiet corner, the morning moment, the lived-in beauty.
Styling a coffee table is just a peek at how much thought goes into every inch.
Ready to love where you live? Start the process through the link in our bio.