Christmas decor for small spaces

Dec 07, 2012 4:49 AM by Katarina Kovacevic

Posted in Holidays & Seasons / Christmas / Christmas Crafts & Decorating

decorating for the holidays

Design tips from Sabrina Soto

When you live in an apartment, decorating for the holidays can be a challenge. Can you fit in a tree? How do you prevent ornament overload? We got the insider knowledge on Christmas decor for small spaces with design ideas from Target style expert for home and HGTV designer Sabrina Soto.

Use vertical space

Look for unexpected places — such as a chandelier, window or over a doorway — to hang ornaments and decor. This is a great trick because hanging pieces from the ceiling forces the eyes to look upward, making the room feel larger. Just because you live in a small space doesn't mean you have to sacrifice the tradition of a Christmas tree. A tabletop tree will fit nicely on an entryway or an end table. Add small ornaments to complete the look.

No space for a tree? Get creative with a wreath!

Don't relegate your wreath to the front door when it can add so much charm to a room. Try a re-imagined style and hang it in front of an existing window or mirror where it can serve as the focal point of the room.

Replace some of your small year-round decor pieces with holiday accents

Combine two or three seasonal pillows with a rich, cozy throw to give your couch a spirited makeover. It's a simple but effective touch.

Ornaments are not just for a tree

They can be used in many DIY projects to create a warm and welcoming effect. Pick up a variety of ornaments and matching festive ribbon. Drape the ribbon across one wall of your living room, about 18 inches below the ceiling, then add the ornaments spaced evenly across the ribbon. Or, create your own Christmas tree ornament mobile.

Select serving pieces that add color to your meal or appetizers

Target's Threshold Woodgrain Ceramic Bowls are lined in a vibrant red or green and add punches of color to any table. Place green pears against the bright red lining for a modern take on a classic Christmas element, and then fill the green bowls with traditional mini red candy canes. These simple touches can be placed throughout a room, no matter the size, to spread holiday cheer.

Merry merchandise

OK, so we've armed you with the do's and don'ts of small apartment decorating. Now comes the fun part! Bring the holidays home with these joyful Christmas design ideas.

Create a focal point

Target Threshold Silver Wreath, $28: Add some holiday sparkle with this wreath's silver light-reflective leaves.
Olive & Cocoa Felted Reindeer ($98): With its cheery little nose and big bright eyes, this happy reindeer exudes Christmas joy and maximizes wall space.
Target Mix and Match Pillows ($15-$17 in store only): Capturing the spirit of the season is easy and affordable with decorative throw pillows for your couch.

Embellish with ornaments

Birando Wish Star ($9): Let it snow, let it snow — all over your bookshelf! These heavy-duty 3D paper stars light up any space.
Martha Stewart Glittered Snowflake ($7) and Wonderland Christmas Light Clings ($9): Add a wintry touch to existing windows or hanging mirrors.
Cost Plus World Market Ornaments ($5-$9): String these pretty baubles together for a quirky holiday ornament tree or garland.

The final touch

Softsoap Scentsations Holiday Liquid Soaps ($2 at Walmart): One of the easiest and most subtle ways to spread holiday cheer!
Altogether Home Swain Hammered Bowl ($204): Take advantage of tabletops and fill an eye-catching decorative bowl with seasonal flair.
Teroforma Arbor Coaster ($9), Olive and Cocoa Pinecone Salt & Pepper Shakers ($44), and Linnea's Lights Holiday Spice Candle ($30): Complete your Christmas tablescape with sweet touches that store easily after the New Year.

Bonus: Space-saving Christmas trees

Can't get into the spirit without a Christmas tree? These sprightly sprigs are ideal for apartment living.

Revolving

Christmas decor for small spaces