Design lesson: Outdoor holiday decorating

Dos and Don'ts of exterior decorating

DO consider the architecture. Classic and formal homes look best with tightly woven greenery displayed symmetrically. Victorian homes are exuberant and accommodate coloured ornaments, elaborate bows and draped greenery. Colonial styles call for simple decorations. Complement a ranch bungalow with looser greens such as cedar, and natural elements like pinecones.

DO mix fresh and permanent garlands. Place fresh greens near a door to appreciate the fragrance. For large areas, a synthetic garland is a good investment; braid strands for fullness and impact.

DO calculations in advance. For significant straight runs, such as a roof line or railings, multiply the distance by 2½ to determine the amount of garland needed (for a draped effect, multiply by three).

DON'T choose small wreaths. For a door that's 35 inches wide, choose a wreath that's 24 to 30 inches in diameter. For a 48-inch-wide door, a diameter of 30 to 36 inches is ideal.

DON'T overlook an occasional extravagance, such as swagging a back deck with garlands or filling a bird bath with mirrored ornaments.

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