From creating a Christmas table centrepiece to styling a fireplace, we take a look at this inventive festive ideas from this real family home

Image: Dan Duchars

Marie Nichol fills her cottage with festive charm for the seasonal holidays.

She and her husband were searching for their dream house for over year, as they wanted somewhere which had the perfect character where they could take on a challenge and put their creative skills to good use. 

With plenty of festive inspiration in her home, we round up the ideas we want to steal for decorating our own homes this Christmas.

A Christmas tree alternative 

Image: Dan Duchars

To change the traditional look of your hoem, collect a branch with plenty of sturdy twigs. This will create a rustic alternative to a traditional tree.

Hang up baubles or spray paint the tips a copper tone for a modern twist.

Small decorations

Image: Dan Duchars

The smaller details make a room more festive in a sublte way. Instantly give your sideboard display a Christmas twist by replacing artwork with a Christmas print.

Also a few simple changes to your existing interior will make it feel more festive; this could be done by displaying a light box, which shows a seasonal message.

Add texture with textiles

Image: Dan Duchars

To make the living area in their home more wintery and warm, Marie has made her sofas look inviting by styling them up with plenty of plush cushions and snuggly throws.

This is a great way to add pops of colour to a neutral scheme, as they can be switched out with the seasons.

Styling a winter fireplace

Image: Dan Duchars

To create the perfect winter fireplace, you will need chopped wooden logs, crates or baskets and baubles or hanging decorations. 

Stack your chopped logs into crates or baskets surrounding the fire place and look out for wooden boxes that can be turned on their sides or wire mesh baskets that will channel a rustic look like Marie’s.

Hang strings of decorations or baubles along the mantelpiece, or from wall and ceiling beams in older properties, to give a festive flourish at Christmas. Remember to keep away from open flames.

Add homemade details to table decor 

Image: Dan Duchars

Marie has invested in an extendable dining table and has filled it with personal touches like a homemade stag centrepiece, plenty of greenery and fairy lights – perfect for welcoming guests. 

Read more about this gorgeous Christmas home in this year’s Ultimate Christmas, available to buy now.