13 December Decorating Ideas for People Who Prefer Minimal Style

If you’re drawn to clean lines and simple designs, minimalism might be the perfect decorating style for you this December. The season doesn’t have to mean cluttered spaces or over-the-top decorations. Instead, focus on subtle touches that bring warmth and comfort. Minimalism allows you to create a serene and inviting space with just a few essentials. Ready to get started? Let’s take a look at some ideas that will transform your home.

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Simple Evergreen Wreath for a Subtle Holiday Touch

A minimalist wreath can bring a touch of festive charm to your door or wall. Focus on a simple base, like a twig or metal ring, and use fresh or faux evergreen sprigs to keep the look clean and natural. Skip the heavy embellishments and instead add a subtle ribbon or twine for texture. The beauty of this decoration lies in its simplicity, making it a great addition to a minimal-style home. Hang it in a neutral-toned spot to let it shine without overwhelming the space.

For a more refined look, you can spray the evergreen with a light coat of white paint to mimic a frosted effect. This simple step adds an elegant touch without cluttering the design. Be mindful of the size, and keep it proportional to the space you are decorating. Minimal decor thrives on balance and simplicity. This wreath works well as a statement piece while remaining understated.

Neutral Candles for Cozy, Understated Warmth

Candles are a perfect way to add warmth without overdoing it. Opt for neutral-toned candles like white, beige, or gray to keep the color scheme cohesive and minimal. Arrange a few candles in different sizes on a clean, simple tray to create a calm and inviting atmosphere. For a more natural touch, use wooden or stone candleholders. This subtle approach to lighting can still create a cozy and festive feel without being too flashy.

Consider using unscented candles for an even more pared-back look, letting the soft glow be the focal point. Avoid overly ornate holders or complex arrangements, as the simplicity of the candles themselves should be the main attraction. Place them in corners or along the dining table for added charm without overwhelming the room. Minimalist design thrives on function and form, so use candles that are both practical and stylish. With the right placement, these candles can turn any space into a tranquil retreat.

Scandi-Inspired Tree with Simple Ornaments

A Scandinavian-inspired Christmas tree embraces clean lines and simple decor. Stick to natural elements, such as wooden ornaments, pinecones, and minimalistic string lights. Instead of covering the entire tree with decorations, keep it light with just a few well-placed items. A simple star or a minimalist wooden angel at the top can give it an elegant finish. The key is not to overcrowd it; let the tree’s natural shape and texture shine through.

For a more refined look, use neutral-colored lights, preferably white, to maintain a soft, glowing effect. You can also incorporate soft linen or wool garlands to complement the minimalist style. Place your tree in a sleek, neutral-toned pot to complete the look. A minimalist tree doesn’t have to be bare; it can still be full of seasonal spirit without the clutter. This approach ensures that your decor remains calm and balanced throughout the holiday season.

Monochromatic Table Setting for Holiday Dinners

A monochromatic table setting can set a peaceful, elegant tone for your holiday meals. Choose one color, such as white, gold, or gray, and stick with it for all your tableware. Keep it simple with clean lines-use simple plates, minimalist napkins, and subtle glassware. The less-is-more approach works wonders here; forgo excessive decorations and let the simplicity of the table shine. A few sprigs of greenery or a small, neutral-colored centerpiece will keep the look soft and inviting.

To create a minimalist yet festive feel, use natural materials like wood or stone for your serving trays or bowls. Avoid overloading the table with unnecessary items like excessive cutlery or unnecessary side dishes. Less clutter will create a more serene dining experience, leaving plenty of room for conversation and enjoyment. A minimalist table setting makes a statement with its quiet elegance and careful selection of pieces. Consider adding a personal touch with handwritten place cards on recycled paper for a gentle, sustainable feel.

Simple String Lights Across Windows or Walls

String lights can still add charm without taking over the space. Instead of wrapping them around the tree or large features, drape them across windows or walls for a more subdued effect. Keep the lights small and delicate, avoiding the large, colorful bulbs for a clean and simple appearance. The soft glow from the lights will create a cozy atmosphere while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic. Use clear or frosted lights for a gentle, diffused effect that isn’t too harsh on the eyes.

For an even simpler look, choose warm-toned lights to maintain a natural and calming feel. These lights work well when draped across a mantelpiece or along a shelf with minimal decor. You can even hang them in a straight line or create a soft pattern along the wall to add a bit of intrigue. Remember to keep the wiring neat and unobtrusive to maintain a clean, uncluttered vibe. This idea adds just the right amount of festive flair without overwhelming the room.

Minimalist Holiday Garland for Subtle Charm

Garlands are a great way to add holiday spirit without over-decorating. Instead of large, thick garlands, opt for slimmer versions made from natural materials, such as dried eucalyptus or simple greenery. These types of garlands can be draped across shelves, windows, or even used as a subtle table runner. By using fewer materials, you allow the natural beauty of the garland to take center stage. The soft, earthy tones blend seamlessly with a minimalist aesthetic.

To further embrace the minimalist look, add a few delicate metallic elements, such as thin wire lights or small wooden ornaments. This will keep the garland festive while maintaining a calm, understated feel. You can also hang a garland over the fireplace mantel or along the staircase for a gentle holiday touch. The simplicity of the design ensures that it complements the space, not overpowers it. Keep the garland fresh or faux, depending on your preference, for an easy-to-care-for decoration.

Soft Wool Blankets for Cozy, Minimal Touches

Wool blankets can add warmth and comfort without overwhelming a room. Select neutral-toned throws in soft shades like gray, beige, or off-white. Drape them across sofas or chairs to add texture without introducing too many colors. These blankets bring in the feeling of winter without the clutter of excessive decor. Their cozy, tactile quality invites relaxation while keeping the room looking neat and elegant.

For added simplicity, choose blankets with minimal patterns or solid colors. Layering them lightly with a few soft pillows can complete the look, creating a peaceful, inviting environment. When choosing blankets, consider the quality of the fabric to ensure longevity and comfort throughout the season. A wool throw brings in just enough of a cozy vibe to make your space feel seasonal without being overwhelming. Let the warmth and texture of the wool be the star.

Natural Wood Accents to Bring the Outdoors In

Incorporating natural wood accents into your decor can create a warm, organic feel in your home. Try adding wooden trays, bowls, or even small sculptures to shelves or coffee tables. The natural grain of the wood brings a simple, earthy element to the space that complements a minimalist style. Keep the pieces small and well-placed to avoid cluttering the room. These wood accents can also serve as functional pieces, like trays for candles or bowls for seasonal fruits.

You can further enhance the natural vibe by selecting raw or unfinished wood pieces, which maintain the organic beauty of the material. Wooden decorations like small stars or geometric shapes can add a subtle, festive touch to your holiday decor. A few strategically placed wood accents help ground the room and add visual interest without overcomplicating the design. These accents can fit seamlessly into any room, from the living room to the kitchen. The beauty of natural wood lies in its simplicity and timeless appeal.

Neutral-Colored Holiday Pillows for Soft Comfort

Adding a few neutral-colored pillows can make a space feel cozy and inviting without being too overwhelming. Choose pillows in soft shades like beige, white, or light gray to keep things calm and subtle. You can select solid-colored pillows or ones with simple patterns, like stripes or checks, for a bit of texture. Place them on your sofa or bed for a relaxed, festive feel without the clutter of excessive decorations. These pillows can easily be swapped out when the season ends, making them both stylish and practical.

To keep things minimal, choose fabrics like cotton, linen, or wool for a soft and natural touch. Avoid oversized pillows that can dominate the space-stick to smaller, more manageable sizes. These pillows add just the right amount of comfort and holiday cheer without crowding the room. Simple details like buttons or a light embroidery can add personality without being too busy. With a few well-placed pillows, you can create a space that feels both festive and peaceful.

Minimalist Holiday-Themed Art Prints

Holiday-themed art prints can bring a touch of the season into your home while maintaining a minimalist approach. Choose simple designs, such as black and white illustrations or abstract representations of winter scenes. Large, bold images can overpower a minimalist style, so opt for subtle artwork that complements your existing decor. A few framed prints can make a stylish statement without taking over the room. Hang them in clusters or individually for a modern and clean look.

Look for prints that use a limited color palette, focusing on tones like black, white, or muted earth colors. This keeps the artwork in line with the minimalist aesthetic. Avoid frames that are too ornate-simple wooden or metal frames work best to let the art speak for itself. You can rotate the prints throughout the season to keep things fresh. This small touch of art will subtly bring in the holiday spirit without overwhelming the space.

Simple White Snowflakes for a Clean, Festive Look

White snowflakes are a perfect minimalist touch for decorating windows, walls, or shelves. You can create snowflakes from paper, fabric, or lightweight wood to maintain a natural look. Their simplicity adds a festive element while still keeping the overall design clean and uncluttered. Hang them on strings, place them on tabletops, or attach them to windows for a delicate touch. They look especially charming when backlit by soft light.

To create a more cohesive look, stick to one material for the snowflakes, and keep the size and shape consistent. A few well-placed snowflakes can make your space feel festive without taking over the room. This idea works well in spaces with lots of natural light, as the snowflakes will cast gentle shadows on the walls. These simple decorations add just enough holiday spirit without overwhelming your minimalist style. Snowflakes bring a quiet beauty to your space and enhance the seasonal feel.

Linen Table Runner for Elegant Dining

A linen table runner adds an elegant, understated touch to your holiday table. Choose a neutral color, like white, beige, or gray, to keep the design soft and minimal. The simple texture of linen adds warmth and natural beauty to the table, perfect for a holiday meal. Pair it with neutral plates, cutlery, and glasses to maintain a cohesive look. The runner works well as the centerpiece without overpowering the table with too much decoration.

To further simplify, avoid using large centerpieces and focus instead on small, simple details like candles or greenery. A linen table runner is both functional and decorative, offering a clean base for your dishes. You can easily fold it after the meal for simple storage. This minimalist approach creates a serene, elegant dining experience for your guests. Let the beauty of the fabric and its natural folds be the star of your table setting.

Minimalist Stockings for a Subtle Holiday Tradition

When it comes to stockings, less is more. Opt for simple, solid-colored stockings in neutral tones like white, gray, or beige. Skip the over-the-top decorations and focus on the texture and fabric of the stocking itself. Wool, cotton, or linen make great choices for a minimalist look. Hang them on a simple metal rod or along a fireplace mantel for a festive yet understated touch.

Consider adding just a small detail, such as a subtle embroidered name or minimalistic pattern, for a personal touch. Avoid excess glitter, beads, or bright colors, as these can clash with the calm and peaceful aesthetic. The simplicity of the stockings adds to the overall serene feel of the holiday season. Whether filled with small treats or left empty, they provide a quiet nod to tradition without the clutter. This simple decor choice works well in any minimalist home.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.