m the preparations are almost the most exciting part of the season for me – I really enjoy it. I love adding that whole extra layer of decoration to the house, and the fact that the holly, the tree and a crackling fire also add their own scent by the time its Christmas,” says Susie, who is adamant that creating that Christmas feel at home can be achieved in an afternoon.
SETTING A RELAXED TONE “I really like a comfortable English country house look, and I don’t personally like things to look too precious. Decorating is about entertaining, and family and friends. You want it to look beautiful but welcoming, and not at all off-putting. Create an environment that encourages people to sit down. Little children and
g be ready with throws and cosy cushions – nice feather ones that are comfy. One has to remember it’s a home, a place for people to gather and somewhere that they enjoy coming. “I don’t think you need to be concerned about things matching exactly. Old English houses had lots of things brought back from around the world and there was plenty of colour and variety. I think that’s the best of British decorating. You may have things you’ve owned a long time, such as an old piece of mahogany furniture, and newer things to add in, particularly at Christmas [such as additional seating for guests]. It’s good to have a mix, and once it’s all in there, you don’t notice it. “The same applies to decorations. You may have some favourites that remind you of Christmases past, you can then add maybe one or two, or even four, new baubles every year. I think we should reuse and pass down decorations that we treasure – such as heavy cotton-and-jute Christmas stockings or sacks that last at least a childhood, or festive tableware that’s a little bit of an investment just for Christmas. When you RIGHT The magical scene starts as guests approach Susie’s home. “I think it’s lovely to have some decorations outside and to use trees or climbers that are strong enough to decorate with inexpensive baubles that twinkle nicely,” she says. “It makes such a dfference when you arrive as a guest to see a welcoming wreath. We decorate the stone dogs with ivy collars and sometimes ribbons for Christmas. For me, it shows that dogs will be inside to welcome you, too.” LEFT “Very occasionally you do have quite fine weather at Christmas and it’s lovely to sit outside and huddle up after a walk. It’s a bit of a fantasy. Decorating the garden is a really fun idea, especially if you create a spot in which to enjoy a hot drink in the garden beneath twinkling baublefilled trees.” All products used to decorate throughout Susie’s home and garden are from Susie Watson Designs Handmade Home Collection
90 THE ENGLISH HOME
