5 Tips for Decorating Your Home Like a Pro

Want your house to look great this Christmas? Here are five things we've picked up over the years about decorating, inside and out.

1. Understand Interior Design Fundamentals

Color Palette: Follow the 60-30-10 rule — 60% main color, 30% secondary, 10% accent. This ensures a balanced aesthetic.

Style and Purpose: Consider each room's function. A living room for movie nights differs from one for dinner parties.

Form and Function: Effective design merges aesthetics with utility. Use a mix of general, task, and accent lighting.

Beautifully decorated interior with festive lighting

2. Light Up the Outside

Plan your outdoor display around your home's shape. Outline rooflines, windows, and doorways. Pick a centerpiece like a lit-up tree or a yard figure. LED lights use less energy and last longer. Warm white looks classic, multicolor looks fun.

3. Maximize Space and Storage

Use creative solutions like built-in shelving and furniture with hidden compartments. Clear labeled containers make finding holiday decorations easy. Dual-purpose furniture like storage ottomans can conceal extra blankets while offering seating.

4. Incorporate Personal Touches

Choose artwork and photographs that resonate with you. Mix frame sizes and styles. Add texture with soft throw pillows, plush rugs, and varied decor items. Blend everyday decor with seasonal touches — use neutral furniture as a base, then add pops of color with changeable accessories.

Finished home decorated with Christmas lights and festive decor

5. Bring Your Vision to Life

Good decorating is about balancing what looks nice with what actually works. For holiday lighting, plan it out before you start, pick the right lights, and make sure everything works together.

Need help choosing the right bulbs? Check out our Christmas Lightbulb Guide. And before you start hanging lights, make sure to read our Christmas Light Safety tips.