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House & Home
My staircase from my 2013 Christmas house tour
Are you decorating your stairway for Christmas this year?
A beautifully decorated staircase sets the tone for your holiday home. Garlands, lights and a few well-placed ornaments can transform an ordinary entry into a festive focal point. Here are simple ideas to inspire your own stairway display:
- Classic Green Garland: Drape a lush evergreen garland along the banister and weave in warm white lights. Finish with ribbon bows for a timeless look.
- Rustic Pine and Cones: Use pine cones, burlap ribbon and sprigs of eucalyptus or cedar for a natural, woodland feel that pairs well with wooden stairs.
- Ornament Accents: Attach shatterproof ornaments in a cohesive color palette to the garland for sparkle without clutter. Mix sizes for visual interest.
- Stockings and Personal Touches: Hang stockings or small decorative sacks along the rail for a cozy, family-oriented display. Add name tags or small keepsakes to personalize each one.
- Minimal Scandinavian Style: Keep it simple with sparse greenery, neutral ornaments and soft lighting for a calm, modern aesthetic.
- Layered Textures: Combine ribbon, twine, and faux berries with your garland to create depth and contrast against painted or wooden spindles.
- Safety and Practical Tips: Secure garlands firmly to avoid slipping. Use battery-operated LED lights on banisters without nearby outlets, and avoid obstructing handrails on frequently used staircases.
Ready to shop? Browse curated holiday pieces that make decorating your stairs easy and stylish. Choose garlands, lights, ribbons and ornaments that suit your home’s color scheme and scale.