DashVibe

Easy Ways To Christmas-ify Your Whole House

Interior designer Taniya Nayak knows a thing or two about decking her halls for the holidays. She is currently hosting ABC's The Great Christmas Light Fight with fellow HGTV alum Carter Oosterhouse, the first requirement of which is, of course, a propensity for all things twinkly, festive and evergreen. Here, the Boston-based talent shares how she outfits her home for the holidays as well as some styling ideas you can steal for your own space (dog antlers and bathroom decor included).

Make Your Tree Shine

"The tree should be the focal point of the room, but it doesn’t need to light up like a Vegas casino. I love white lights paired with a classic holiday plaid ribbon. I accent with subtle pops of color and a mix of metal finishes for a traditional, yet still contemporary holiday look."

Use Extra Ornaments Around the House

"Have you ever found really special ornaments that were just too heavy for the tree? Me too. Buy the set anyways. I love to use them as part of a decorative place setting on my dining table. I also like to keep my centerpiece low — it’s easier for conversation and easier for passing drinks or dessert."

Try a Wintry Room Divider

"My favorite place to use colored lights is on the decorative room divider that I created using a large planter and birch branches. Use pea stone to hold them up in place. It’s a great way to create different areas in your home when you have an open concept. Everyone has something in their home that can be decorated to take it from everyday to holiday."

Set Up a Drinks Station

"A bar cart is the perfect way to create a drinks station in any size space. There is definitely a bar cart out there that fits your style, size and price point. Gathering everything in one space makes it easy for guests to make their own drinks and is always a popular spot to hang at my holiday party. Everything on the bar cart should be both beautiful and functional!"

Add a Cozy Layer with Accent Pieces

"Holiday pillows are better than ever this year. There are stylish options available that will fit a variety of décor styles. I personally love the pop of red on a sofa or chair during the holiday season! It’s also the perfect time to layer ottomans, chairs and floors with plush white area rugs for a winter wonderland look."

Create a Stylish Buffet

"I love to use my kitchen island to serve hot foods buffet-style during holiday get-togethers. I start with a runner of cloth or decorative paper, and then put my hot dishes into matching chafing dishes. Use ornaments that are too heavy for the tree as accents along the runner."

"One of my favorite designer tips that elevates the look of your holiday spread – decorative serving trays. They are perfect for cookies, candy, nuts, olives, cheeses and dips. You can also use one for garnishes at your drinks station."

Invest in Great Seats

"Have you been thinking about upgrading your dining chairs? The holidays are the perfect time to do it, especially if a sit down dinner is part of your holiday traditions. Choose something that’s both chic and comfortable. A neutral colored chair is perfect year-round, no matter the holiday or season."

Don't Forget the Bathroom

"I always take the opportunity to make small upgrades to my guest bathroom before holiday entertaining. Pick out a chic storage basket that can hold new, fresh towels and extra supplies for partygoers and overnight guests."

Dress a Pet!

"I am in love with my dog Flynn, so I have to include him in the holiday fun! Grab a cute holiday sweater for each of your furry friends for four-legged holiday spirit on chilly days throughout the season."

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