House Tours
How Jillian Harris decorates for Christmas
Images: Courtesy of Jillian Harris
House Tours
How Jillian Harris decorates for Christmas
Traditional adornments and pops of Santa Claus-red lend holiday cheer to every room in designer Jillian Harris’s bright and welcoming home.
When it comes to decorating for Christmas, Canadian interior designer and TV star Jillian Harris decks the halls of her West Kelowna B.C. home the same way she designs her spaces — in a traditional and oh-so-stylish way. Her aim is to make the holidays as special for her children as they were for her growing up. “I remember when I was a kid, my parents and family made Christmas so magical for me, and now that I have kids of my own, I’m so excited to make it just as magical for them,” says the designer.
In the past, she opted for a subdued holiday colour palette, but now that she wants to create a classic Christmas backdrop for her little ones, she adds plenty of pops of red into every room of her abode. "It’s the biggest difference from my usual style, as I’m normally allergic to colour,” says Jillian.
From garland trimmings with twinkling lights to cozy red textiles to a grand ol' Christmas tree, the designer’s home is ready for her family and friends to bask in the magical holiday season.
Custom-sewn slipcovers in a classic Christmas red check print and a wispy green garland over the window give the kitchen a delightful holiday vibe.
A cozy faux fur throw and plush toss cushions on the bench swing provide a comfortable place for outdoor lounging. Pops of red make their way throughout the entire house — like on the checkered tea towels in Jillian's kitchen.
Christmas stockings hang from the mantel and built-in cabinetry give the space holiday flair. “Most of the stockings hung in my home are from my childhood, but other than that, we’re just starting to collect special pieces that will be passed down to our children one day,” says Jillian.
Jillian’s grand Christmas tree is adorned classic metallic ornaments and takes centre stage in her elegant spacious living room. The silver tinsel hanging off the branches give it a more fuss-free, kid-friendly feel.
The dreamy, romantic master suite is given subtle festive touches including a wreath on the wall, twinkling lights on the headboard and presents on the bench at the end of the bed.
“Every room in the house will have a touch of Christmas in it!” says Jillian, and that includes her children’s bedrooms. Santa hats on stuffed animals and piles of presents on faux fur rugs make for a playful and enchanting scene for the kids.
Jillian’s everyday setup in her dining room is classically subtle with a white table and matching dining chairs — a clean backdrop that allows a festive tablescape to star. Golden Christmas-themed plates and Nutcracker crackers are at each place setting, and garland hangs along the chandelier, which adds greenery to the setting without overcrowding the centerpiece display.
When the festivities come to a close, there’s no better place to get a breath of fresh air than in the great outdoors. Jillian pairs plenty of greenery in the form of garlands and wreaths with simple Christmas lights to set the mood for alfresco lounging. Cozy throws are laid out on the seats to encourage guests to stay awhile.
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