A color coordinated holiday dining room. Courtesy photo

By SUZETTE FOX
Los Alamos

I can’t believe it’s been a year since I’ve begun writing these columns.

I have thoroughly enjoyed sharing my design philosophy with you. I have heard positive feedback regarding my columns and I truly appreciate it.

The holidays are already upon us. I thought I would share some ideas about decorating for the holidays that might inspire you this season.

A unique Hanukkah color scheme. Courtesy photo

Design Tips

• Embrace different color schemes. Holiday decorating isn’t restricted to traditional colors. Try out different color schemes that are still festive but refreshingly unique.
• Add natural elements to your holiday design. Incorporating pine cones and other rustic elements into holiday décor make for a homey, wholesome feeling.
• Hang elegant, cut out snowflakes. Cutting out snowflakes is no longer just for kids. Dangling a few large snowflakes above your table can be a chic and beautiful option.

Not every tree need be green! Courtesy photo

Recycling Tips

• When replacing holiday lights, recycle at our Eco Station. All you need to do is bring them to the metal recycle bin. Then update with LED’s.
• Donate decorations that you don’t use anymore. Others will profit by your generosity and you can receive a tax donation if you choose to.
• Use gift bags instead of gift boxes. They are easy to reuse each year. Once you get in the habit of reusing gift bags, friends and family just ask, “You’re recycling these again right?”

Storage Tips

• Label all storage boxes and bins with what is stored inside. This will save a lot of time and energy the following year when pulling out the decorations.
• Take a picture for next year. Note which decorations you used where and take pictures. When you have a lot of decorations, like I do, it really helps to look to see what decorations went where.
• Designate a Space. Holiday decorations should have their own section in your storage area. This way you will always know where everything is packed. Investing in a shelving rack is a great way to maximize space.

Energy Saving Tips

• Buy LED lights – save a bundle with ENERGY STAR® qualified LED light strands. In addition to using 70% less energy than traditional bulbs, they’re brighter, eco-friendly, and are safer, as they are much cooler than incandescent lights. In addition, they are easier to install—up to 24 strings of LEDs can be connected end-to-end without overloading a wall socket. They last ten times longer, have no filaments or glass to break, and costs are similar to the age-old standard. If you prefer white lights with the look of incandescent lights, look for “warm” white on the label.
• Limit hourly usage. Set timers for lights to automatically turn on when it gets dark and off in the middle of the night, depending on your preferences. You can save a bundle keeping light displays on only 8 hours of the evening (when you can see them). If you are still using traditional incandescent bulbs, this tip is even more important to cut down on energy costs.
• Creative and reflective decorating. Not everything is about strands of lights. Reflective ornaments and tinsel are just as bright at night, so getting creative with your lighting display can multiply your resources for shine. You could even mirror your neighbors’ display with a string of silver bells on your railing. Don’t forget the ribbons, wreaths, garland, and reflective menorahs, for electricity-free age-old traditions still bring holiday cheer.

While holiday decorating is all about adding fun, sparkle and warmth to a very special season, it’s important to remember that many of our favorite decorations carry the risk of fire or electrical injury if not used carefully. Don’t let a preventable accident take the enjoyment out of your holidays – whether you’re excitedly preparing for Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanzaa, take a few minutes to read safety labels to make sure you have a happy, healthy and safe holiday season!

Feel free to contact Los Alamos Interior Designer Suzette Fox to suggest specific design topics or for help with your home. For more information, find her on Facebook at facebook.com/SuzetteFoxInteriorDesign and on her website www.suzettefoxinteriors.com