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Holiday Entertaining Issue: 150 ways to celebrate!

ROMA homes Creative Christmas: Darling DIYs with gingerbread, flowers & more

RACHEL ASHWELL’S color picks of the season

NOVEMBER 2018 • DISPLAY UNTIL 11|06|18 VOLUME 31, NO. 11 • $ 7.99 US

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74470 03114

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Engaged Media, Inc.

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[ Contents ] NOVEMBER 2018 | Vol. 31 | Issue 11.

42

[ Features ]

36 A Room of Her Own Follow along in this third of a six-part series as Jo-Anne Coletti takes us through every step of transforming her rustic barn into a romantic and budget-friendly art studio.

By Jo-Anne Coletti

42 Woodland Splendor See how this loral designer celebrates Christmas in style with lots of fresh lowers, natural greenery, and handmade ornaments and treats.

By Michelle Mastro

60 White Christmas

ON THE COVER Creative Christmas: Darling DIYs with gingerbread, lowers & more | Cover photo by Liz Fourez ROMANTIC HOMES / November 2018

Discover how fresh, simple ideas can bring an abundance of holiday charm and wonder to any home.

By Jeanette Philipse

4

[Contents ]

74

36

32 Lovely Be inspired by Rachel Ashwell’s personal holiday color choices.

Sweet Simplicity

By Rachel Ashwell

Learn how simple touches such as desserts as décor and natural colors and textures can create a charming Christmas look.

By Kristin Dowding

[Browsing ]

84

10 Browsing: Gracious Gifts

Belle of the Ball

These classy, fun holiday gift ideas will bring seasonal joy to any hostess.

Try these beautiful DIY ideas for holiday décor using botanicals, berries, pinecones and more.

By Lauren Hofer

By Matthew Mead

90

60

96 Shopping Guide Where to ind the products featured in this issue.

Winter Whimsy

[ In Every Issue ]

Glimmering glass, magical candles and foraged natural inds will ill your holiday table with sparkle and delight.

6 Sincerely 8 Online Extras 98 Say Ahh

By Sara Bird

[Departments ] 14 Fresh Check out these expert tips from Carolyne Roehm’s latest book on her classically stylish décor, for the holidays and every day.

20

By Margie Monin Dombrowski

20 Adorn Miss Mustard Seed shares her many creative ideas on how to use homemade gingerbread in fun, festive ways this season.

POSTAL STATEMENT: ROMANTIC HOMES (ISSN 1086-4083) Volume 31, Number 11 is published monthly 12 times a year by Engaged Media, Inc., 17890 Sky Park Circle, Suite 250, Irvine, CA 92614.

Periodical postage paid at Irvine, CA, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: send address changes to Romantic Homes c/o VSI, Inc. 905 Kent Street, Liberty, MO 64068. © 2018

by Engaged Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material from this issue in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

GST #855050365RT001 Canada Post: Publications Mail Agreement #40612608. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: PITNEY BOWES, INC. P.O. Box 25542 London, ON N6C 6B2.

By Marian Parsons

26 Sweet Get into the holiday spirit with these easy DIY gingerbread houses.

By Margie Monin Dombrowski

ROMANTIC HOMES / romantichomes.com

4

FRENCH STYLE

Engaged Lifestyle 1SVI XLER Āþ QEKE^MRIW WLS[GEWMRK

thousands of ideas for the home styles ]SY PSZI QSWX

Don’t miss out! 4MGO YT E WMRKPI MWWYI SV WYFWGVMFI XSHE]

www.engagedlifestyle.com/inspire.

6

[ Sincerely ]

Magical Touches

%PP XLI X[MROPI PMKLX [SRHIV XLEX ÁPPW XLI LSPMHE]W MW NYWX EVSYRH XLI GSVRIV *VSQ LSWXMRK 8LEROWKMZMRK KIX XSKIXLIVW XS XLI LSPMHE] WLSTTMRK ERH EPP XLI HIGOMRK SJ XLI LEPPW 2SZIQFIV MW WTVMROPIH [MXL QEKMG ERH QIQSVMIW MR XLI QEOMRK In the month of November, the busy bustle is about family and friends, hosting Thanksgiving dinner, baking cookies and decking the halls. And when it comes to holiday decorating—whether you start early or wait until the week before—you can find inspiration everywhere for the colors, styles and themes you might choose this season.

There are more ways to decorate for the season than you can imagine, and this issue is packed with ideas to delight and inspire. From a decadent, regal red Christmas from Carolyne Roehm (page 14) to a theme of dreamy whites and natural touches mingling (page 60) to a whimsical, woodland style with tartan plaids and fresh greens (page 42), you will find inspiration for holiday decorating, delicious

ROMANTIC homes November 2018 • Vol. 31, Issue 11

EDITORIAL Editor/Brand Leader: Courtney Allison Executive Editor: Margie Monin Dombrowski Managing Editor: Anne Brink Contributing Editor: Kris Christensen Editorial Intern: Lauren Hofer DESIGN Senior Art Director: Kelly Lee Design Director: Gabby Oh CONTRIBUTORS Rachel Ashwell, Jo-Anne Coletti, Kristin Dowding, Liz Fourez, Bret Gum, Michelle Mastro, Matthew Mead, Janice Morrow, Sarah Pankow, Marian Parsons ADVERTISING Toby Childs - National Advertising Director • (503) 387-5099 Sherrie Norris - West Coast Account Executive • (704) 421-1517 Julie Hale - East Coast Account Executive • (770) 377-0072 Nadia Koepke - Midwest Account Executive • (507) 581-1712 Eric Gomez - Advertising Traffic Coordinator MARKETING Sabra Morris: Director of Content Marketing Brooke Sanders: Content Marketing Specialist OPERATIONS Manish Kumar Mishra: Operations Specialist Surajpal Singh Bisht: Prepress Manager Devender Hasija: Newsstand & Circulation Analyst Shailesh Khandelwal: Subscriptions Manager Alex Mendoza: Administrative Assistant Victoria Van Vlear: Intern Program Manager EDITORIAL, PRODUCTION & SALES OFFICE 17890 Sky Park Circle, Suite 250, Irvine, CA 92614 (714) 939-9991, Fax (800) 249-7761 www.romantichomes.com www.facebook.com/romantichomesmagazine ROMANTIC HOMES (ISSN 1086-4083) Volume 31, Number 11 is published monthly 12 times a year by Engaged Media, Inc., 17890 Sky Park Circle, Suite 250, Irvine, CA 92614. Periodical postage paid at Irvine, CA, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: send address changes to Romantic Homes c/o Engaged Media, Inc. VSI, Inc., 905 Kent Street, Liberty, MO 64068. © 2018 by Engaged Media, Inc. All rights reserved.

Reproduction of any material from this issue in whole or in part is strictly prohibited. GST #855050365RT001 Canada Post: Publications Mail Agreement #40612608 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: PITNEY BOWES, INC. P.O. Box 25542. London, ON N6C 6B2.

CUSTOMER SERVICE Engaged Media, Inc. 17890 Sky Park Circle, Suite 250 Irvine, CA 92614 SUBSCRIPTIONS, ADDRESS CHANGES, Renewals, Missing or Damaged Copies (800) 764-6278 (239) 653-0225 Foreign Inquiries subscriptions@engagedmediainc.com customerservice@engagedmediainc.com BACK ISSUES www.engagedmediamags.com BOOKS AND REPRINTS (800) 764-6278, Foreign (239) 653-0225 Letters to the Editor, New Products or to Contribute a Story or Photo mdombrowski@engagedmediainc.com SUBSCRIPTION RATES $21.95/1 year, $34.95/2 years. Foreign $51.95/1 year and $94.95/2 years payable in US funds. Single copy price is $7.99. Please allow 6 to 8 weeks for new subscriptions to begin.

entertaining and filling this special season with magic.

ENGAGED MEDIA, INC. Pinaki Bhattacharya: CEO Terry Rollman: Group President Philip Trinkle: Newsstand Sales Director Nathaniel Phillips: HR and Office Management Jickie Torres: Director of Content Syed Nazir Razik: Director of Digital Marketing This magazine is purchased by the buyer with the understanding that information presented is from various sources from which there can be no warranty or responsibility by Engaged Media as to the legality, completeness or technical accuracy. GST #855050365RT001 Canada Post: Publications Mail Agreement #40612608 Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: PITNEY BOWES, INC. P.O. Box 25542 London, ON N6C 6B2

COTTAGES & BUNGALOWS

Follow us on

Get expert advice, inspiring renovation stories and fun DIY projects every day. facebook.com/cottagesandbungalows cottagesandbungalowsmag.com

Follow us on Come join us for daily inspiration and ideas for your Victorian home.

Facebook.com/VictorianHomes

8

[Online

Extras

]

HOLIDAY Fun BRET GUM

STACI ZARIN GOLDBERG

LET THE HOLIDAYS BEGIN WITH THESE DIYs, RECIPES AND IDEAS.

How Soon Is Too Soon to Decorate for Christmas?

CYNTHIA ZAMARIA

Should you pull out the twinkling lights or wait a bit?

DIY Christmas Dried-Orange-and-Floral Wreath

Here are the pros and cons you need to know to make the best decision this year.

KRIS CHRISTENSEN

Real vs. Faux. What Kind of Christmas Tree to Buy?

This easy-to-make botanical wreath will add elegant, homespun charm to your holiday décor.

Countdown-toChristmas Craft FABIANA REESE

This creative DIY project is fun to make and enjoy.

Pumpkin Spice Spritz Cookies Craving something sweet to go with your latte? Here’s the recipe!

LET’ S C LIC K! For daily photos of inspiring décor, be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

FACEBOOK.COM/ROMANTICHOMESMAGAZINE INSTAGRAM.COM/ROMANTICHOMES PINTEREST.COM/ROMANTICHOMESMAGAZINE Visit romantichomes.com to subscribe to our weekly newsletter for more original content delivered right to your inbox!

ROMANTIC HOMES / romantichomes.com

More Than Ordinary DOORS

Memorable

“Welcome Home� moments start here!

Shop NowÂť VintageDoors.com | Free Catalog Âť 1 (800) 787-2001

— Inside and Out —

ROMANTIC homes Follow us on

Explore beautiful and inspirational home dĂŠcor ideas from the Romantic Homes experts. facebook.com/romantichomesmagazine romantichomes.com

10

[Browsing ]

GRACIOUS Gifts MAKE A HOSTESS HAPPY WITH THESE CLASSY AND FUN HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS.

By Lauren Hofer

GEOMET RIC PLACE-CARD HOLDERS, $28–$32.

BOBBY LIN

food52.com.

11 1.

1. PERSONALIZED CUTTING BOARD, $35. copperfoxco.com.

2. LA LAVANDE LAVENDER SEA SALT BATH SOAK, $12.99. worldmarket.com.

3. EAT CAKE FOR BREAKFAST APRON, $30. wayfair.com.

4. REWINED CANDLE, $29.

2.

westelm.com.

3.

5. MILTON MEASURING CUPS, $32. anthropologie.com.

4.

5.

ROMANTIC HOMES / November 2018

12

JULIA GARTLAND

[Browsing ]

6.

7.

6. GREY SPLATT ER ENAMEL KETT LE, $50 food52.com.

7. 3-PIECE WOOD T RAY SET, $111.99. wayfair.com.

ROMANTIC HOMES / romantichomes.com

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FRENCH STYLE

13

8. TOOLS TO LIVE BY SCISSORS, $25. greerchicago.com.

9. CHEESE-PAIRING PRESERVES, $45. uncommongoods.com.

8.

10. OLIVEWOOD CHEESE KNIFE SET, $35. surlatable.com.

11. VINTAGE HAND STAMPED SERVING SPOONS, $40. etsy.com/shop/milkandhoneyluxuries. .

9.

10.

11.

ROMANTIC HOMES / November 2018

14

[Fresh ]

ELEMENTS of Style TAKE A FEW TIPS FROM CAROLYNE ROEHM’S CLASSIC STYLE FOR YOUR HOLIDAY DÉCOR AND ALL YEAR LONG.

By Margie Monin Dombrowski

“FLOWERS, EXQUISITE OBJECTS, FABRICS

SYLVIE BECQUET

and aromatic candles comprise a vision of femininity in which every element bespeaks quality,” Carolyne says.

C

reativity comes in many forms and for Carolyne Roehm, her imagination is used to make every detail in her everyday life stunningly beautiful. In her newest book, Design & Style: A Constant Thread, Carolyne takes us through

her many creative endeavors over the years, from her days in the fashion industry, and as an author and public speaker, to her gorgeous tablescapes and floral arrangements.

Ever the classicist, Carolyne explains, “…there is a consistency to my work, no

matter the medium… I’d like to think that if you saw a particular dress, a holiday table ROMANTIC HOMES / romantichomes.com

15 “THE ACCUMULATION OF SMALL but inely

SYLVIE BECQUET

wrought gestures adds up to an exquisitely satisfying tableau,” Carolyne notes.

ROMANTIC HOMES / November 2018

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[Fresh ]

ROMANTIC HOMES / romantichomes.com

SYLVIE BECQUET

17

ROMANTIC HOMES / November 2018

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[Fresh ] setting or a classically constructed room, you might identify them all as things that I had designed. As for what that constant element might be, I can explain it to you very simply: It is my recognition that perhaps, with a very few exceptions, there are no new ideas— just new ways of putting the old ones together and making them your own.”

Follow along in her book as she shares what strikes her fancy, as well as the many tablescapes and floral designs that are sure to inspire you. Here are the key elements behind Carolyne’s creations.

COLOR Color is one aspect of design in every creative’s toolbox, and Carolyne is careful to stay true to the same hues—such as navy blue, red and white—time and time again. “But because it is so instinctive and so personal, color can be a wonderful aesthetic area to explore ... And, at least in terms of decor, few things are so forgiving: there’s no mistake so great that it can’t be corrected with a can of paint,” Carolyne writes.

CLASSIC Keeping her designs classic is her secret to always being in style.

Carolyne details, “For me, the ultimate example of a classic is the stripe, whether on awnings, barber poles or tablecloths. Polka dots and plaids, too—what’s more classic than those? Every country has its own, of course, but I remain particularly partial to our homegrown icons—now and forever, the acme of style.”

NATURE Finding beauty and inspiration everywhere, Carolyne takes many design cues from nature, including color, composition and simplicity. “Nature never gets it wrong,” she writes. “I have pursued the art of nature in all of my endeavors: fashion design, table settings and, lately, watercolors.”

QUALITY Taking pride in her work, Carolyne has always put much time and efort into her designs. This same dedication to quality is also found valuable objects for a stunning display. “The presence of quality in everyday life pleases the spirit and is always a cause for gratitude,” Carolyne notes.

Design & Style: A Constant Thread by Carolyne Roehm, Rizzoli, 2018.

ROMANTIC HOMES / romantichomes.com

OBERTO GILI

in her table settings, where she is always mindful of weaving in

19

DEEP RED HUES

SYLVIE BECQUET

are a hallmark of Carolyne’s classic style.

ROMANTIC HOMES / November 2018

20

[Adorn ]

GINGERBREAD Décor TRY MISS MUSTARD SEED’S DIY IDEAS FOR ADDING HOLIDAY CHARM WITH GINGERBREAD HOUSES, ORNAMENTS AND MORE. Written and photographed by Marian Parsons

O

ld-fashioned gingerbread is not only a classic Christmas treat and decoration, but it’s

now becoming a trendy one as well.

Scroll through Instagram in early to mid-December and your feed is likely to be filled with creative ideas for making and displaying gingerbread cookies, houses and ornaments. It’ll be enough to coax you into the kitchen.

If you’re going to join in on this fun

and festive activity, here are a few tips.

• MAKE A BIG BATCH OF DOUGH (OR TWO OR THREE)! If you’re going to make a mess of the kitchen, it might as well be worth it.

• MAKE, ROLL AND BAKE THE DOUGH ONE DAY; then assemble and decorate another. This kind of baking can take a lot of time and be surprisingly tiring. If you try to decorate at the end of a long day of mixing, cutting and baking, you might be tempted to rush the creative part.

• BE AS PRECISE AS YOU CAN. That doesn’t matter if you’re making cookies, but if you’re making a house, it goes together so much easier if everything is sized properly and the ROMANTIC HOMES / romantichomes.com

21

These houses are edible, and dogs and small kids might not realize you intend to use them for decoration!

ROMANTIC HOMES / November 2018

22

[Adorn ] sides are square, straight, etc. Gingerbread is very forgiving, though. If you’re not precise, you can always trim the gingerbread when it comes out of the oven, so don’t fret!

• ICING COVERS A MULTITUDE OF IMPERFECTIONS. It’s like caulk for trim. It hides any wonkiness that does happen if your cuts and measurements aren’t totally precise. Just add a bunch of icing, pile some drippy snow on top and you’re good to go.

• DUST WITH POWDERED SUGAR. The powdered sugar not only gives the houses and ornaments a beautiful snowy look, but it also hides cracks and brings out any details cut in the surface of the gingerbread (like shingles, bricks or beams).

• BUILD HOUSES ON A PRETTY BASE. This is not only practical, so the houses can be moved, but they look so cute perched on wood rounds, cake stands, old books and even overturned dishes. If it has a flat surface, chances are you can build a gingerbread house on it.

• MAKE A SCENE. Create your own little Christmas village with houses, vintage toy cars, cast-iron or plastic

ROMANTIC HOMES / romantichomes.com

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ROMANTIC HOMES / November 2018

24

[Adorn ]

animals, mini bottlebrush trees, tiny pinecones, evergreen sprigs and clumps of reindeer moss. A sprinkle of Epsom salt makes a great snowy base.

• THINK BEYOND HOUSES. Gingerbread houses are classic, but why stop there? Make a garland to hang in your kitchen and ornaments for your tree.

Just cut the desired shape and make a hole with a toothpick or straw to accommodate a length of twine or ribbon. And hang your gingerbread!

• DISAPPEARING TREATS. These houses are edible, and dogs and small kids might not realize you intend to use them for decoration! Make a batch just for eating, and keep the houses and ornaments out of reach.

• KEEP IT COVERED. Cloches are a great way to keep sneaky fingers and smart noses away from your gingerbread creations. Protect your houses from sweet-toothed humans and pets (along with dust) with glass cake covers, cheese domes, and even overturned juice tumblers, jelly jars and water goblets. This is another great way to get creative with how your gingerbread is displayed and preserved to last throughout the holidays.

ROMANTIC HOMES / romantichomes.com

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ROMANTIC HOMES / November 2018

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[Sweet ]

NICE & Iced GET INTO THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT WITH THESE EASY IDEAS FOR GINGERBREAD HOUSES.

By Margie Monin Dombrowski Photography by Zac Williams

CREATIVE GINGERBREAD-HOUSE BUILDING MATERIALS, including chocolate pirouette cookies, pretzel sticks, sugar cones and spearmint leaf candies, make a wintry “Cozy Cabin.”

W

hen the holidays roll around, you may find

yourself itching to bake some wonderfully creative cookies,

and desserts, gingerbread houses and more. But do you have the time or expertise?

Turns out you can make some pretty impressive, nobake gingerbread houses with a minimal amount of elbow grease and in no time at all. In

Easy Gingerbread Houses by Lisa Turner Anderson, you’ll learn how to make houses, castles, cottages and more using graham crackers, cookies, ice cream cones, waffle bowls and fistfuls of candy.

The best part? There’s no messing with dough and waiting for it to set. Just take a few minutes to build your dream gingerbread house, and your family and guests will never have to know.

Start with a sturdy foundation when building your gingerbread house, such as a 1-foot by 1-foot piece of

ROMANTIC HOMES / romantichomes.com

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CANDY STICK COLUMNS AND FLOWER BUSHES made from spearmint leaf candies, gumdrops and confetti sprinkles give you a plethora of decorating ideas.

28

[Sweet ] LOLLIPOP LANE INGREDIENTS

Graham crackers (7 half crackers per house; 2 quarter crackers per house) 1 batch egg-white royal icing Orange jelly fruit slices Starburst candies Candy sticks Lollipops Jelly beans Jelly fruit slices

ROMANTIC HOMES / romantichomes.com

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DIRECTIONS 1. Cut one half cracker diagonally to make two triangles. Using royal icing, glue one triangle to the top of one half cracker to form the front of the house. Glue one quarter cracker across the seam to reinforce the two pieces. Repeat to make the back piece.

2. Assemble the house using the triangle-topped pieces you just made for the front and back of the house and one half cracker for each side. Pipe icing along the slanted roolines and place two half crackers on top for the roof.

3. Repeat steps 1–2 to make two more houses.

4. Once the frosting has hardened and the houses are sturdy, decorate as desired. To make orange bricks, cut orange jelly fruit slices into rectangles. To make the sidewalk squares, latten purple Starburst candies and lay them in a row. Use a sharp pair of scissors to cut the candy sticks to the length of the house.

COLORFUL CANDIES that resemble bricks and logs add whimsy to this “Lollipop Lane” project.

ROMANTIC HOMES / November 2018

30

[Sweet ] cardboard. Cover it with waxed paper or aluminum foil DESIGN YOUR OWN “SWEETHEART COTTAGE” using graham crackers, heart-shaped candies and liberal amounts of royal icing.

so the house doesn’t stick.

While no messy dough is required to build a gingerbread house, you can use gingerbread crackers to get the job done quickly and easily. Cut the pieces you’ll need using a serrated knife for a clean look.

No gingerbread house is complete without royal icing, which dries to a hard candy-like finish and lasts for months. Follow the directions for egg-white royal icing and be sure to add candies, pretzels, cookies, bits of cereal and more for color and interest.

EGG-WHIT E ROYAL ICING MAKES 4 CUPS INGREDIENTS

3 egg whites ½ teaspoon cream of tartar 4 cups powdered sugar Jelly fruit slices

DIRECTIONS 1. In a large, clean bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar together until the meringue has formed stiff peaks.

Photographs by Zac Williams from Easy Gingerbread Houses

by Lisa Turner Anderson, reprinted by permission of Gibbs Smith.

ROMANTIC HOMES / romantichomes.com

2. Beat in the sugar, 1 cup at a time, until mixed together and smooth.

31

WITH TOOTSIE ROLL WINDOW BOXES, gum-stick window shutters and Smarties for rooing materials, this “Swiss Chalet” is simply adorable.

ROMANTIC HOMES / November 2018

32

[Lovely ]

HOLIDAY on the Horizon BE INSPIRED BY RACHEL’S PERSONAL COLOR CHOICES FOR THE SEASON.

By Rachel Ashwell Photography by Sarah Pankow

ROMANTIC HOMES / romantichomes.com

33

I

love when the seasons inspire getting

When getting ready to decorate for

cozy and when my pastel palette takes

the season, I start to pull out some of my

on deeper tones.

holiday treasures and layer color and soft fabrics on my bed and sofa with throws

Pale pinks blend into raspberry, eggshell

and bedcovers. Faux furs and soft, drapey

blue to teal and whites to grays. Even though

velvets are my favorites. Even though

I love the spectrum of these shades all year

Christmas is traditionally known for reds

round, the transition from fall to winter is when

and greens, somehow darker shades of pale

I really embrace the moody blues and pinks.

belong too.

ROMANTIC HOMES / November 2018

34

[Lovely ]

It’s also a time when I appreciate more than

I’m always on the lookout for vintage

ever nostalgic details, handwork, teeny ruffles

accessories, especially Florentine trays

and vintage items with evidence of past lives. I

for this time of year. The slightly bolder

revisit the movie Little Women, when time was

colors complemented by gold give them

a little slower, and creativity and make-believe

an overall faded-grandeur efect. No longer

in the home were the custom. With so much

intimidatingly perfect, the trays are now so

so-called “entertainment” at our finger tips, it’s

very usable.

easy to become just an observer and not be part of creating.

And of course, lighting takes on a whole diferent efect in the winter months. While

Our “Pink Santa” art piece is hand painted

chandeliers twinkle all year round, the shorter

by an artist with no digital shortcuts. Just

days in particular need and relish their

her paints and brushes. Our cross-stitched

romantic presence.

stocking was inspired by a threadbare sampler,

So yes, this is a very special time of year.

a common practice in days gone by.

See Shopping Guide, PAGE 96.

ROMANTIC HOMES / romantichomes.com

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ROMANTIC HOMES / November 2018

36

Project

" ř

A ROOM

of Her Own A RUSTIC BARN BECOMES AN ART STUDIO THAT’S ROMANTIC, FUNCTIONAL AND STYLED ON A BUDGET.

Written, photographed and styled by Jo-Anne Coletti

T

HE CHARMING, HISTORIC TOWN OF MARSHFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS, is the place I call home—in an 1820s Federal Colonial house with an attached art studio that was once a horse-and-carriage

barn. Before we purchased the home in 2004, the barn was used as a great room for the previous owner. It was a large two-story barn with a lot, cathedral ceiling and mudroom.

I knew immediately that this space would be ideal as a photo and art studio. he original rustic structure had an open-loor plan, 198-year-old hand-hewn barnwood beams, French doors, a skylight, six large windows, a door to the courtyard and a connector entryway to the main house. Although there was plenty of natural light streaming through, I couldn’t live with the dark wood. I wanted to lighten the space and paint the room and beams white.

GETTING STARTED We began by priming and painting the walls, trim, windows, ceiling and wood beams in white. hankfully, I have seven painters in my family, and they all pitched in with a helping hand.

ROMANTIC HOMES / romantichomes.com

37

ANTIQUE WRITING DESKS can be purchased at lea markets and refurbished for a song. This gray lady’s desk was refreshed with a fresh coat of Annie Sloan chalk paint in Paris Grey.

ROMANTIC HOMES / November 2018

38

' Ō

ROMANTIC HOMES / romantichomes.com

39

When you’re renovating an antique home, you never know what you’re getting into when you begin a new project. I recall the gallons upon gallons of white paint and many tubes of caulking we used for the barn. My husband joked that we could have opened our own paint store. But the hard work was well worth it. he paint alone brightened the space and allowed for a cohesive low throughout the rest of the house.

DEFINING THE SPACE Next, we removed the heavy carpet and brick and installed a white-brushed pine laminated loor that mimics painted wood.

It’s simple to install, easy to clean and

ROMANTIC HOMES / November 2018

40

scratch resistant. hen we hung a new six-arm crystal

character and organic charm to walls, ceilings and

chandelier for a bit of sparkle.

loors. Salvage yards are a great place to ind barnwood,

he furnishings in the barn are mostly vintage or

and you can check your local newspaper for barn or

made from reclaimed wood. he worn wood pieces

shed demolition sites. Scout antiques shops for old

give an authentic feel to the barn and provide a warm

mantels and tables. And don’t forget lowers to make

contrast against all the white. On the opposite side

your haven perfectly romantic.

of the room is where I create. You can ind me under

My art studio is bright, convenient and tranquil; it

a window, in a tiny corner with a table, chair and

feels like a home away from home, even though it’s

my paints. Opposite is an antique writer’s desk that

attached to the main house. Spending time in an old

functions as a wrapping tabletop. he wall-to-wall,

barn gives you a feeling of lost time. It’s so easy to while

built-in cupboard houses paints and supplies, and the

away the hours when surrounded by the outdoors,

reclaimed wood table and chairs welcome a friend or

natural beauty and the quiet setting only a country barn

two for tea.

can ofer—and it’s also quite romantic.

ADDING CHARACTER To create the look in a modern space, use richly textured boards and hand-hewn beams to bring

See Shopping Guide, PAGE 96.

ROMANTIC HOMES / romantichomes.com

41

A VICTORIAN CUBBY purchased at Brimield Antique Show displays useful and pretty things, like rose lower crowns, antique bottles and old coverless books.

ROMANTIC HOMES / November 2018

42 THE FAMILY’S CHRISTMAS TREE, placed in the front window every year, hosts an eclectic decades-old collection of handmade ornaments.

ROMANTIC HOMES / romantichomes.com

43

WOODLAND

Splendor

SEE HOW THIS CHARMING HOME CELEBRATES CHRISTMAS WITH FRESH FOLIAGE AND HOLIDAY TREATS.

By Michelle Mastro Photography by Bret Gum Styling by Janice Morrow, Margie Monin Dombrowski and Kris Christensen

F

OR MANY HOMES DURING THE HOLIDAYS, winter frost and ebbing light are made cheerful by twinkly Christmas decorations. But not so in Janice Morrow’s home located in sunny Newport Beach, California. Janice, a loral

designer, prefers instead all the hallmarks of “an old fashioned, European Christmas.”

DECK THE HALLS WITH CEDAR “I truly believe in less lashy holiday décor, but lots of green. I love the natural elements,” Janice says. Her unique holiday décor is “natural and earthy,” a homemade Christmas. “I always use fresh cedar in the house during the holidays. It makes the house smell wonderful.”

Everywhere in the home, fresh green trim outshines artiicial splendor. In place of Christmas lights, real cedar branches cover the home’s banisters. Slices of fallen tree logs serve as table settings, and pinecones Janice collected on vacations in the mountains appear throughout the house. Her children made many of the family’s Christmas tree decorations. “It’s eclectic,” she laughs, describing her collection of tree ornaments.

“Nothing matches.”

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44

A CHARMING RUSTIC PATTERN, Scottish tartan plaid is used nearly everywhere in the home, especially in wrapping paper.

But that’s part of the magic of the holidays, Janice explains, recalling how each ornament tells a story of a time when little hands, now grown, once crated the ornaments. “I love unboxing the ornaments every year, pulling them out and looking at all the memories.” Each Christmas tree is special, she says, because it was chosen to bear the family memories in its branches.

A CHRISTMAS ROSE Inspired by the romantic rose, Janice assembles her loral arrangements and Christmas wreaths from the twigs and branches she collects year round. “I love white roses for their simplicity. hey are easy to ind; they smell nice and last a long time,” she explains. “I use roses liberally in loral design.”

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RED AND WHITE are a couple of Janice’s favorite colors. Pops of the pairing appear throughout her home during the holidays, as the combination is elegant but also very true to the season.

Everywhere in the home fresh

green trim outshines artificial splendor.

ROMANTIC HOMES / November 2018

46 JANICE AND HER FAMILY DECK THE HALLS with fresh cedar every November through Christmas. Two weeks before the holiday, they will take down these boughs and put up new ones, renewing the fresh winter scent.

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But why roses in Christmas décor? “Roses are lovely during the holidays,” Janice says. “White roses, especially, ofset all the color of the holidays beautifully.” hey bring a woodland elegance, charming guests into visions of freshly fallen snow. “I want to bring the woodland, wintry look to SoCal.” Adding to the woodland and natural feel, Scottish tartan plaid appears in her favorite present wrapping and ribbons as well.

“You name it, I have every ribbon. It’s especially fun to pull out wrapping for the holidays,” Janice says. It’s something she looks forward to every year, almost as much as her children looked forward to the tangerines and chocolate golden coins in their stockings. Reminding Janice of her own childhood when winter fruits were simple delicacies, some of the tangerines are dried and sprinkled on cakes or in drinks.

Natural elements lend whimsy and magic to the holidays. “he little girl in me still believes in the magic of reindeer and Christmas woods. hey are full of whimsy and splendor.”

See Shopping Guide, PAGE 96.

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JANICE’S HUSBAND MADE THE TABLETOP of the dining table, which

[opposite] JANICE SAYS BECAUSE OF HER SCOTTISH HERITAGE she likes to

features classic white-and-black tile.

include the tartan plaid whenever she can.

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WINT ER F RESH CREATE YOUR OWN FESTIVE FLORALS WITH JANICE’S TIPS. For an elegant woodland loral bouquet, pair white lowers with other colorful blooms, Janice suggests. She prefers combining white and red, an elegant Christmas color scheme, “because it gives a classic look and pairs well with most anything.”

Adding the white lorals in a Christmas lower arrangement will subtly suggest new-fallen snow.

Janice even includes a special silvery leaf plant she keeps in her garden. “It looks just like fresh snow.”

Try ‘silver shimmers’ lungwort to add a look of holiday tinsel to your bouquet. Or try incorporating some Helene von Stein lamb’s ear, a drought-resistant plant, to your lower pots. Lamb’s ear has a silvery hue and, true to its name, it is so soft to the touch—like lamb’s wool or powdery snow.

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But that’s part of the magic of the holidays, Janice explains, recalling how each ornament tells a story of a time when little

once crafted the ornaments. hands, now grown,

51

MORE OF JANICE’S COLLECTION OF SILVER is above the kitchen table, adorning white shelves to offset the beautifully tarnished display. Below sit bounties of gorgeous winter-themed foliage strung over tables and set atop shelves.

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52 SPOTTING THIS LONE GOAT TAXIDERMY ONE DAY, Janice knew she had to give him a home.

She named him Beck and gave him a scarf of tartan plaid.

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MOSTLY UNPOLISHED PIECES OF COLLECTED SILVER have a beautiful gray tone Janice loves.

[opposite, top left] A FAMILY RECIPE, this German gingerbread cake is accompanied by vintage deer igurines in a ield of dried citrus fruit.

[opposite, bottom] “THE LITTLE GIRL IN ME STILL BELIEVES in the magic of reindeer and Christmas woods. They are full of whimsy and splendor,” Janice says.

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“YOU NAME IT, I HAVE THE RIBBON. It’s especially fun to pull out wrapping for the holidays,” Janice says.

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AS A CHILD, JANICE LOVED SODA FOUNTAINS. Her family’s display is replete with its own ive-and-dime cash register and yummy Christmas candies.

56

JANICE COLLECTS THE TWIGS AND PINECONES for her wreaths year round. Her home displays all her unique creations.

57

JANICE’S FATHER’S ANTIQUE WAGON with its red wheels and green paint is perfect for the holidays!

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58 GERMAN GINGERBREAD CAKE INGREDIENTS

1½ cups all-purpose lour, spooned into measuring cup and leveled off with back edge of knife 1 teaspoon baking soda ½ teaspoon salt 2 teaspoons ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon ¼ teaspoon ground cloves 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into ½-inch chunks 2⁄3 cup dark brown sugar 2⁄3 cup mild-lavored molasses, such as Grandma’s Original (not Robust or Blackstrap) 2⁄3 cup boiling water 1 large egg

DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9-inch pan with nonstick cooking spray. Add a few tablespoons of lour to the pan; shake and turn the pan until the bottom and sides are evenly coated.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together lour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon and cloves.

3. In a large bowl, combine, butter, dark brown sugar, molasses and boiling water. Whisk until the butter is melted. When the mixture is lukewarm, whisk in the egg. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, and whisk until just combined and there are no more lumps.

4. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 35 minutes, or until the edges look dark and the middle feels irm to the touch.

5. Set the pan on a rack to cool slightly. Frost after the cake has completely cooled.

INGREDIENTS FOR VANILLA BEAN BUTTERCREAM FROSTING 2 cups unsalted butter, room temperature 3½ cups powdered sugar, sifted 1 vanilla bean, seeds scraped out

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract ¼ cup milk

DIRECTIONS 1. Combine butter and sugar; then mix on medium-high speed for several minutes until smooth.

2. Add remaining ingredients and mix for an additional 3 minutes.

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60 IN THIS SIMPLY DECORATED WHITE LIVING ROOM, the Christmas tree has a prominent place in front of ornate mirrors.

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WHITE Christmas

DELIGHT IN THE CHARM AND WONDER OF THIS HOME DECORATED FOR THE HOLIDAYS WITH FRESH, SIMPLE IDEAS. Written and styled by Jeanette Philipse/CocoFeatures.com Photography by Anneke Gambon

T

O SEE THE TWINKLING EYES AND THE AWE IN THE EXCITED FACES OF HER GUESTS is what Bianca Planner does it all for. She gets up early in the morning while everybody is still fast asleep and starts decorating the house with

festive Christmas decorations. “It is a lot of work, but seeing those happy faces makes it all worthwhile,” says Bianca.

A TIME FOR TRADITIONS When Bianca was a young girl herself, her mother did the same thing, following her own mother’s example. Generation ater generation, the house was decorated in the early hours of the morning with the most beautiful Christmas decorations and greenery. By the time everybody else wakes up, the house has been transformed into a magical Christmas scene.

Every November the Planner family visits a small village nearby, where there is a farm with a meadow full of pine trees and you can pick your own perfect Christmas tree. “Many times, we have been fooled by the size of a tree and found ourselves coming home with a tree that was way too large,” Bianca says laughing.

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62

Because of this, Christmas time comes early in the Planner family home. “his way, we can fully enjoy all the beautiful antique Christmas decorations, the richly decorated tree and all the Christmas greens,” says Bianca. he smell of homemade Christmas cookies and the sot light of candles create a warm and intimate atmosphere. And every day the stack of gits underneath the Christmas tree grows bigger and bigger.

SHADES OF WHITE Bianca and her husband, Marcus, live in a semidetached house in a small town, together with their three children and four Chihuahuas. he renovation, which happened right ater buying the property, was thorough: hey added on to the house, rerouted pipelines, plastered walls and ceilings, replaced all doors and, inally, painted everything white. here is no doubt about Bianca’s favorite color: Not only is the entire interior painted white, but the sofas and all other furniture also have various white

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[left] THE ANTIQUE CHRISTMAS BAUBLES are very decorative even in an old storage box, wrapped in tissue paper.

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64 A COZY CORNER is created in the living room with a few simple holiday decorations.

[opposite, top left] AS AN ORIGINAL ALTERNATIVE FOR A CHRISTMAS BAUBLE, Bianca took a yellowed page from an old booklet and attached it to the tree with a nice clip.

[opposite, bottom right] BIANCA DECORATES WITH A PINE TWIG, a small silver Christmas bell and a pretty candle as an easy way to create atmosphere. “Candlelight makes it all magical,” Bianca says.

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65

FOR A FESTIVE TOUCH, this mannequin is accented with a subtle Christmas decoration.

DECORATED WITH CHRISTMAS GARLANDS, even the antique mannequins enhance the festive atmosphere.

66 WHITE TABLEWARE, beautiful glassware and candles provide an instant cozy atmosphere. Breakfast and dinner last a long time in this household during the festive season.

Good friends are more than welcome as well.

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[left] A BASIC IRON WIRE

tones. “White creates space and makes everything lighter and fresher, and it’s a

with some small Christmas baubles proves that you don’t need much to create a festive atmosphere.

perfect backdrop for additional accent colors,” Bianca says.

[right] CHANDELIERS ARE ONE OF BIANCA’S FAVORITE THINGS, especially in twilight,

come up with a diferent theme every year. his year’s theme will be based on

when the crystal glass relects the candlelight so beautifully, creating a fairy tale-like atmosphere.

HARMONIOUS HOLIDAY Bianca is certainly creative and resourceful in decorating her home. “I love to the yellowed pages of an old booklet, which I hung on the Christmas tree with a small clip,” she says.

Even the mannequins in her home are embellished with beautiful decorations.

One has a lace ribbon and some antique Christmas bells; others have handmade decorations of folded paper or a pinecone. “he yellowed storage boxes where I keep the antique Christmas baubles are my most precious possession,” Bianca explains. “Most baubles were found in lea markets and fairs, but some of them have been in our family for many years. I will never get enough of the thin and fragile glass and the diferent shapes.” Some remain in the box, wrapped in tissue paper, while others will hang on the tree among the candles. Real candles, just like in the old days.

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“When we are all together, cuddled up around the Christmas tree, I am at my

happiest."

Bianca is also very happy with her collection of antique chandeliers and mirrors. “When it is dark outside and the sot candlelight relects in the mirrors and allows the crystal drops to shine so beautifully, it is almost magical,” Bianca says.

With her many green decorations, Bianca shows it doesn’t have to be complicated to create a cozy atmosphere. A pine twig with a silver bell, some small pinecones here and there, and a diminutive branch in a glass vase. Light some candles and voila! here is a basic linen sheet on the dinner table, which is set with white tableware and beautiful glassware. Here Bianca has also created ambience with a single star made of shiny glass beads, some candles and a few pinecones.

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70

“In everyday life, we don’t always eat with the entire family for all kinds of reasons, but during Christmas time, eating together is a real event. Breakfast or dinner, the table will be set with antique tableware and silver cutlery, and dinner will be served in beautiful antique scales. Another family tradition,” Bianca says with a smile.

If they’re lucky enough to have a white Christmas, the snow just makes everything complete. Snowlakes whirl down and transform the surroundings into a magical white world. When the spruce in the garden is fully covered with snow, the little lights in it twinkle, turning the garden into a perfect Christmas scene.

“When we are all together, cuddled up around the Christmas tree, I am at my happiest,” Bianca says.

See Shopping Guide, PAGE 96.

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[opposite] A LOT OF BAKING AND COOKING takes place in this kitchen during the holidays. In the weeks before Christmas, Bianca starts searching for tasty dishes she can prepare, not only for the Christmas dinner, but also the small bites, delicious cakes and desserts.

71

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THE MASTER BEDROOM is festive with the headboard decorated with a green garland, tea lights in glasses on the nightstand and a pine twig in a vase.

[opposite, top right] THE SMALL WHITE CHRISTMAS BELLS belonged to Bianca’s grandmother and have been in the family for years, just like the garland they are attached to.

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TEXTURES AND LAYERS bring this neutral dining room to life.

75

SWEET

Simplicity NEUTRAL TONES AND A VARIETY OF TEXTURES CREATE A COZY CHRISTMAS SPACE THE WHOLE FAMILY IS SURE TO ENJOY.

By Kristin Dowding Photography and styling by Liz Fourez

C

HRISTMAS IS A MAGICAL TIME OF YEAR, AND REFLECTING THAT MAGIC THROUGH DÉCOR is what we plan for, oten months in advance. With family and friends coming to visit, it’s

important to create a welcoming atmosphere that helps them feel the wonder of the season. For Liz Fourez of the Love Grows Wild blog, it’s all about keeping her home in Kokomo, Indiana, simple and relaxing during the holidays. “I like to embrace simplicity during this time of year when things can get very hectic,” she says. Here are some of her tips to prep your home for the holidays.

PLEASING PALETTE Some love to embrace the tradition of red and green during Christmas, but Liz prefers a more neutral approach. “I keep the same light neutral color palette in our home and bring in touches of the holidays through seasonal greenery, ornaments, twinkle lights and stockings,” she says.

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76

FOR ANOTHER FESTIVE HOLIDAY TREAT, all you need are some donut holes and a foam cone. Starting at the base, use toothpicks to secure the donuts to the cone, and work your way up until the donut holes cover the entire shape. Add an ornament or snowlake as your tree topper for a beautiful inish.

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77

“Layering interesting textures adds instant

coziness

ROMANTIC HOMES / November 2018

to a space.”

78 THE LIVING ROOM CHRISTMAS TREE’S PALETTE is cream, gold and white. The various shapes, sizes and textures of the ornaments create interest with the neutral colors. “Start with simple shapes like basic bulbs in various sizes; then add accent pieces with interesting shapes,” says Liz.

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79

[left] FAUX GREENERY makes all the difference in the kitchen, with wreaths hanging from the windows and even some branches hanging from the chairs.

“I’m lucky to have big, beautiful evergreen trees in my backyard that I often cut branches from for our holiday décor, but the greenery I used in the kitchen is faux,” says Liz. “I simply bent the bottom of the metal branch backward and tied the bow around that piece.”

To keep the neutrals from blending together, Liz incorporates diferent textures, from natural greenery to burlap stockings. “Texture and layers help keep a neutral space from feeling lat and boring,” she says. “A sot cream knit blanket with fringe along the edges, luxurious velvet pillows and a faux-fur rug are all great options. Layering interesting textures adds instant coziness to a space.” he neutral palette also keeps the festivity under control, providing gentle, subtle hints of the holidays, rather than the feeling that Christmas is taking over the house.

SUBTLE SWITCHES To save on time and budget, try to include most of your existing décor in the mix, swapping out only a few details. In the entryway, Liz keeps her repurposed door bench and hooks as her staples and switches out some of the smaller pieces for a cozy welcome into the house.

“I oten like to let what’s organically in our home each season be part of our décor, like winter coats hanging on the hooks and snow boots in bins under the bench,” she

ROMANTIC HOMES / November 2018

80

says. “I added a small tree in an antique crock to bring in a touch of the holidays but chose to leave it naked and bare to give it a simple, natural look.”

DESSERT AS DÉCOR Instead of fussing with decorating the dining table and providing an assortment of sweets, make your sweets part of the display. “I had the idea to create a festive dessert table illed with treats and goodies for the season,” says Liz. “I wanted it to be something magical and whimsical that my kids would love.” he good news is you don’t have to be a professional baker to recreate these festive

[left] NEVER UNDERESTIMATE THE BEAUTY OF A SIMPLE CAKE. Rather than topping your cake with complicated frosting designs and multiple colors, use coconut lakes and a small wreath for an easy but elegant look that will complement the rest of your décor.

goodies. “Practice piping some lines on a spare piece of paper to get the technique down,

[right] NATURAL ELEMENTS

and then add decorative elements that you might see on a real house like wreaths, shutters

are key to a neutral holiday décor theme, and this centerpiece of birch log candle holders and faux trees instantly puts you outdoors at Christmastime for a fresh and relaxed look.

and planter boxes to make the buildings look extra special,” says Liz.

TRICKS FOR TREES he most revered holiday decoration is the Christmas tree, and Liz’s approach to it is similar to the one she employs in the rest of her home: create layers. “I started by weaving ROMANTIC HOMES / romantichomes.com

81

A FEW SIMPLE SWAPS are all it takes to prepare your entryway for winter.

A set of hooks and a bench made from an old door are Liz’s entryway staples, but during the holidays she switches out light pillows for a darker velvet set, her mirror for a wreath and a basket for some vintage skates, for a cozy, wintry look.

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82

NOT EVERY CORNER OF THE HOUSE has to scream Christmas. Liz displayed a couple wreath pillows on her bed with a knit throw blanket to hint at the holidays in a subtle way.

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83 FOR SOME HOLIDAY MAGIC IN THE BEDROOM, Liz created a Christmas corner, using a miniature tree, a pair of stockings and a reinished antique chair. “It’s serene and calming and so beautiful,” she says. “It also gives me another opportunity to decorate a tree a little differently than the big tree in my living room, which is a lot of fun.”

pretty ribbon down the tree to act as a garland and added layers of simple bulb ornaments, accent ornaments such as snowlakes and handmade clay trees, picks of magnolia lowers and pearls and battery-operated candles to add to the beautiful ambiance,” she says.

A miniature tree adds holiday cheer to the bedroom and is another opportunity to decorate diferently from your main tree. “For this tree I kept all the decorations bright, snowy white with accents of rusty metal,” says Liz. “I try to soak up the magic of the holidays as much as I can, and having a tree lit up at night in my bedroom is something I look forward to each year.”

See Shopping Guide, PAGE 96.

ROMANTIC HOMES / November 2018

84

[Make it ]

BELLE of the Ball ADD WINTRY SPARKLE TO YOUR HOLIDAY TABLE WITH FORAGED FOREST FINDS, MAGICAL CANDLES AND GLIMMERING GLASS. Written, photographed and styled by Matthew Mead

G

reen wreaths are pretty, and a garland

[left] FILL YOUR HOME WITH ARRANGEMENTS of

of roping adds seasonal style, but why

green and red. Boxwood-and-evergreen-festooned planters with lush red roses are distinctly holiday in style.

not use floral additions to really put

your holiday décor over the top? Consider all the beautiful dried and faux botanicals that can be woven into arrangements and

[right] A GREEN WREATH gets a mix of fresh-cut greens and berries along with lush silk roses to make a front door unforgettable.

ROMANTIC HOMES / romantichomes.com

85

SET UP A WELCOMING REPAST for carolers with sweet treats and topiaries that turn a porch into a party.

ROMANTIC HOMES / November 2018

86

[Make

it

]

door dĂŠcor to welcome the season and all your

[left] FILL A GARDEN URN with seeded eucalyptus

friends and family. Begin with a trip to the crafts

studded with faux red roses, hydrangea and berries reminiscent of Dutch masters’ paintings.

store or local farm stand to gather a mix of berries, cinnamon sticks, faux foliage and silk red roses to bring all your green pieces to life.

For a festive welcome, make your porches,

[right] AN OLD PAIR OF SKATES can be revived with fresh greens and berries to make an entry-door knob pretty, engaging and seasonal.

doorways and exterior details all opportunities to

[opposite] PREPARE SUMPTUOUS GIFT BASKETS

enjoy the season. Create spaces to savor outdoor

illed with fruits and cookies and swathed in red and white vintage fabrics to give as gifts. Perch them by the door for visiting guests.

activities, serve refreshments to carolers or have a hot chocolate break after a skating outing. Here are just a few ideas to get started on your holiday decorating.

ROMANTIC HOMES / romantichomes.com

See Shopping Guide, PAGE 96.

87

ROMANTIC HOMES / November 2018

88

[Make

it

]

DIY YULE LOG MAKE A BEAUTIFUL YULE LOG TO DECORATE YOUR HOME OR TO GIVE AS A SPECIAL GIFT. YOU WILL NEED: 3 birch logs Cut greenery Berries Pinecones Nuts Glue gun Floral wire Twine Scissors 2 yards silk ribbon

YOU WILL DO: 1. Stack logs and bundle them with twine.

2. Wrap the bundle with ribbon and add a silk bow.

3. Hot glue sprigs of greens and berries in and around the ribbon. Add in nuts, berries and cinnamon sticks.

4. Display your yule log in or near a ireplace, or even as a table centerpiece.

ROMANTIC HOMES / romantichomes.com

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ROMANTIC HOMES / November 2018

90

[Entertain ]

DRESS YOUR HOLIDAY TABLE with ine linens, furs, candles and foliage for an elegant country style.

ROMANTIC HOMES / romantichomes.com

91

WINTER Whimsy

ADD WINTRY SPARKLE TO YOUR HOLIDAY TABLE WITH FORAGED FOREST FINDS, MAGICAL CANDLES AND GLIMMERING GLASS.

Written, photographed and styled by Sara Bird & Dan Duchars /The CONTENTed Nest

ROMANTIC HOMES / November 2018

92

[Entertain ]

C

leverly blending the beauty of vintage patterns, the luxury of sumptuous linens, fresh colors and modern repeat printing styles, Inchyra Designs uses classic

design elements to create a range of wonderful designer fabrics.

Located in the foothills of Scotland, the Inchyra Estate is home to founder Caroline Inchyra, who draws upon the surrounding colors and seasons to create timeless archive-inspired linens, which beautifully drape and gather.

“We’re incredibly lucky to live somewhere so beautiful and colorful, with a landscape filled with such stunning scenery and light,” Caroline says. “I think my linens totally reflect that. Most of the heritage fabrics I love are French, but when I look at how I design here, it is totally influenced by the landscape and the atmospheric seasons in which I live.”

ROMANTIC HOMES / romantichomes.com

[left] GATHER NATURAL DECORATIONS and arrange feathers, sparkling candles, glassware and vintage china to add a touch of country charm.

[right] FOR A FRESH TWIST ON PLACE SETTINGS, incorporate fragrant pine and found feathers.

93

94

[Entertain ]

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95

[opposite] SPRUCE UP A STORAGE BASKET and create

The Inchyra Estate, consisting of 150 acres, is also home to the family residence, an 18th-century manor house; The Byre,

an artful carryall with foliage arranged around bottles.

a luxury wedding and events space; and a homeware brand.

[left] SNIP PINE AND SPRUCE, and place the

space with Caroline, her husband. James, their three children

branches in jugs and vases for an easy table centerpiece.

In addition, horses, highland cows and chickens share the and a team of six employees.

With these tips and ideas from Caroline, learn how to combine beautiful and natural elements into a whimsical holiday table setting.

See Shopping Guide, PAGE 96.

ROMANTIC HOMES / November 2018

96

[Shopping Guide ] GINGERBREAD D ÉCOR Pages 20–25

For more tips on working with gingerbread, along with recipes and templates, missmustardseed.com.

HOLIDAY ON T HE HORIZON Pages 32–35

All items: Shabby Chic, shabbychic.com.

A ROOM OF HER OWN Pages 36–41

Paris Grey chalk paint: Annie Sloan, anniesloan.com.

WHIT E CHRIST MAS Pages 60–73

For more on Bianca, VertraeumtesStadthaus.dawanda.com or Instagram @mein.vertraeumtes.stadthaus.

SWEET SIMPLICIT Y Pages 74–83

For more on Liz, lovegrowswild.com.

Cake stands: Couleur Nature, (866) 623-6826 or couleurnature.com.

Cross back chairs: World Market, (877) 967-5362 or worldmarket.com.

French dining chairs, armchair: Target, target.com.

Joy pillows, birch log candle holders: Home Goods, homegoods.com.

Lamps: Birch Lane, (844) 893-6059 or birchlane.com.

BELLE OF T HE BALL Pages 84–89

For more on Matthew, Instagram @matthewmeadstyle.

WINT ER WHIMSY Pages 90–95

For more on Caroline, inchyra.com, inchyradesigns.co.uk or thebyreatinchyra.co.uk.

T INSEL & GOLD Page 98

For more on Jo-Anne, vintagerosecollection.com.

Faux-fur rug, tree skirt and white wool stocking: HomeGoods, homegoods.com.

White and gold gift boxes: Target, target.com.

Silver tinsel tree: The Christmas Place, abingtonchristmas.com.

ROMANTIC HOMES / romantichomes.com

97

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[Say Ahh ]

TINSEL & Gold T

A CHRISTMAS VIGNETTE THAT’S ELEGANT, FESTIVE AND EASY TO DESIGN.

winkly lights around the house make no noise at all, yet they are a good

indicator that it’s Christmastime.

I began fluffing early this year and started stringing lights on my tiny tinsel tree in a corner of my living room. To create this vignette, I started with a set of Florentine nesting tables and placed my tree on the top tier,

Written, photographed and styled by Jo-Anne Coletti

adding white lights and a fauxfur tree skirt. For the final touch, I surrounded the vignette with a faux-fur rug, white and gold boxes adorned with fresh roses, eucalyptus and pretty ribbon.

ROMANTIC HOMES / romantichomes.com

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