Thinking outside the Christmas box for home decor

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  • Interior designer Cindy King suggests that Christmas décor should start “from the tree outward” to create other focal points such as the mantle or stairs. Trinkets and collectibles can be used as Christmas decorations with a little imagination and creativity. Contributed photos
    Interior designer Cindy King suggests that Christmas décor should start “from the tree outward” to create other focal points such as the mantle or stairs. Trinkets and collectibles can be used as Christmas decorations with a little imagination and creativity. Contributed photos
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For over 40 years, interior designer Cindy King of The King & I in Spicewood has been decorating homes and businesses in Australia, Canada and the United States. One of her passions is helping people create the perfect “Christmas House,” often elevating the concept of repurposed to the next level.

Cindy maintains that the first thing to consider for your holiday decorating is choosing the color palette that best expresses your theme. Because the tree is generally the focal point, you want your colors to blend whether you choose a traditional route or a whimsical premise that can include just about anything.

Cindy admits, “I love monkeys and use them in baskets filled with Christmas balls and other holiday items.” Her advice is “be free to use your collectibles to create a festive look.” Cindy suggests that you be

Cindy suggests that you begin your decorating work from the tree outward as you define and create other focal points in your home, like the fireplace mantle or the stairs. Some believe that in small spaces, you need smaller items, but Cindy refutes that idea.

“Even in a small home, use big things and layer them to create a wow factor.”

With the dilemma of empty shelves this year, you may not find everything you need, so Cindy offers ideas for repurposing everyday items.

“When we lived in student housing and had no money, I found dead branches in a vacant lot and sprayed them with color. You can bundle items together, such as pine branches, then tie them together with a big ribbon. You can also tie a ribbon or piece of greenery around a lamp.”

Cindy believes that if you can’t find what you want, spray paint is your friend. Of course, the best places to shop this year just might be resale and antique stores where you can find all sorts of vintage treasures.

One of the trends this year is the combining of textures like fabric and wool with shiny objects. For Cindy, however, she has seen trends come and go and then come again. When she began her career, she worked under a very eclectic designer who could take ordinary items and turn them into something extraordinary. This experience defined her style, teaching her that you can mix different periods to create unique designs that reflect the personality of your clients. Cindy describes her career as a “whirlwind of a blessing,” with a passion for her work that has not diminished over the years. So, this may be your year to decorate outside the box for the holidays and discover your unique style.

You can reach Cindy King with The King & I at (281) 630-9968 or email ckthekingandi@zeecon.com.