The Chronicle Herald (Metro)

Put your festive style on display

Tips to create a stunning seasonal vignette

- JANET ARMSTRONG Janet Armstrong (simplyswan­kdecor. ca) is a graduate of the Interior Design Institute of Canada, CAPS (certified aging in place specialist) and chair of the Decorators and Designers Associatio­n of Canada.

The holiday season is fast approachin­g. And while this year will be different, you may still have a few family members or close friends visit and celebrate.

There’s also shopping for that perfect gift, cooking and baking up a storm and, of course, decorating our homes. If you’re looking for festive inspiratio­n, here are some tips and tricks for creating a stunning holiday display.

BALANCE AND SCALE

A visually appealing display is always well balanced and includes small, medium and large items, as well as items of varying heights. Balance is also achieved by using an odd number of items. Begin by placing the larger items in your vignette first, as they will anchor your display, followed by incorporat­ing medium and small items.

TEXTURE

Texture is critical. Without it, vignettes look flat, one-dimensiona­l and dull. Layers of texture create movement and bring interest and vitality to a display. Be sure to include both matte and shiny items, as well as items with visual and tactile variations, which encourage the eye to wander over the display. For extra sparkle, add a string of mini lights.

NEGATIVE SPACE

Attractive displays are ones that include negative space, allowing for a favoured item to be highlighte­d. Too often, we crowd our displays, which results in a busy, chaotic look and makes it difficult to see and appreciate the items we have included. Remember that less is more.

COLOUR

Colour is a very personal, subjective aspect of design and decor. Regardless of whether you prefer a monochroma­tic vignette or one with a variety of colours, be sure to include an item in a dark colour that co-ordinates with your palette. For example, dark navy, black or a deep shade of green.

Also include a metallic colour that works best with the display. Metallics are no longer restricted to silver or gold items; you can now get metallic items in blues, pinks, greens, rose gold, etc., so there is something that will work beautifull­y for every scheme.

BOTANICALS

Botanical items are the finishing touch to your display and could include a fresh or faux garland, stems or floral spheres. Not only do they add life and vitality, but they bring lots of texture and freshness as well.

The joy is that botanicals are available in a wide range of colours, so finding that perfect item for your display is effortless.

These tips and tricks will assist you in creating a seasonal vignette and save you time, which many of us can appreciate leading up to the holidays. Of course, the most important part of creating or styling a display is to have fun! Style, restyle, experiment and play with the display. Keep rearrangin­g your items until you have a look you love and is gorgeous in your space.

Wishing you a blessed holiday season.

 ??  ?? Be creative with colours this holiday season and find items that suit your style. Janet Armstrong
Be creative with colours this holiday season and find items that suit your style. Janet Armstrong
 ?? JANET ARMSTRONG ?? Use decoration­s of varying heights and sizes to make your festive display just right.
JANET ARMSTRONG Use decoration­s of varying heights and sizes to make your festive display just right.

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