Space-saving Christmas trees
16.11.2020
Translation: machine translated
I'm looking for an alternative to the traditional Christmas tree. Why not create a different version, with branches, needles, berries and a pretty design?
The idea of buying a Christmas tree doesn't usually cross my mind. In fact, I've never had one since I left the family cocoon. I'm rarely at home, and I spend the holidays with my family anyway. But this year is different and, for the first time, I feel like putting up tinsel in my living room.
We agree, nothing beats a sapin decorated with love. But do I really need a life-size model, with all its drawbacks? A traditional tree is often far too big for a small flat. Without a pot, it's neither environmentally friendly nor cheap, given its short lifespan. What's more, they're awkward to install. And you end up with needles everywhere! On the other hand, a synthetic tree takes up space, and you need to know where to store it for the rest of the year. Its environmental credentials aren't great either, and it doesn't give off the typical smell of real fir trees.
The Christmas tree reinterpreted
Decorating pros like Pernille Vest or photographers like Mikkel Adsbøl show us how to reinterpret the concept. They're not content with the traditional version. Pinterest is also full of festive arrangements. From stacks of illuminated books in the shape of a conifer to a picture of a tree with real baubles, these pretty examples show that tradition can be reinvented. All you need is a few large branches and some smaller, bushy ones. I particularly like those with red or purple berries. Then all you have to do is arrange everything.
Branches hold up well enough in tall, domed vases if you prune them to the right height and tie them down. If the vases are still too empty, fill them with newspaper to stabilise your bouquet. You can also use a storage basket. Weight it down by first placing the branches in a vase or flower pot and putting pebbles in the empty spaces.
Once your installation is stable, decorate the branches like a fir tree. Your arrangement may not be as opulent, but at least it will be original. Use a single pendant or a single Christmas bauble per colour. This way, you can combine different styles. A monochrome green look will also look great. It doesn't matter what you choose, as long as it shines!
Place decorated branches on furniture so they stand out. Placed on a cupboard or sideboard, they'll be an eye-catcher. The living room table will allow you to place gifts all around your creation. You can also place your tree next to your gifts and other decorations. It can also be used as a stand for one or two photophores. And don't forget to place other accessories in the room to complete your arrangement. A small chain of teardrop-shaped lights will illuminate the branches.
I don't know which style I'm going to choose yet. Fortunately, I still have a little time left to take a closer look at these images. I'll keep you posted. In the meantime, do you have another idea for saving space or creating an alternative Christmas tree?
Pia Seidel
Senior Editor
Pia.Seidel@digitecgalaxus.chLike a cheerleader, I love celebrating good design and bringing you closer to everything furniture- and interior design- related. I regularly curate simple yet sophisticated interior ideas, report on trends and interview creative minds about their work.
