Minimalist and Modern Holiday Decoration Ideas

It’s my first time decorating for the holidays in our newly renovated beach bungalow, and I wanted to keep with our modern, minimalist and somewhat neutral decor theme. Rather than adding a ton of bright reds and greens in our small space, I opted for lots of neutrals (whites and golds) and kept our holiday decor pretty simple! I love how it turned out and can’t wait to add to our collection over the years. My current holiday/ season decor method is switching out the pillows, and adding a few statement pieces to the shelves. I also have a serious candle addiction, so you’ll be sure to catch me adding in some season smells as well! Below you can find links to everything we purchased for this holiday season, as well as some tips on keeping your holiday home decorations minimalist and modern. Let me know any of your tips or favorite modern holiday decor items in the comments below!

When it comes to decorating your home for the holidays in a way that exudes warmth, while still being true to your minimalist, modern style, there is one thing to keep in mind: intentional simplicity. Holiday decorations don’t have to be busy or over-done to be festive. By sticking with essentials that you love — like a neutral, clean palette — your home and heart can be filled with holiday cheer, while leaving behind all of the fuss. Here’s a few ideas for keeping your boho holiday decor minimalist and modern:

Strip Down the Tree

The Christmas tree is a holiday staple that most people wouldn’t dream of doing without. But if a traditional tree dripping with colored lights, tinsel, and an array of ornaments isn’t your thing, consider stripping your tree down to the basics. A simple tree adorned with white lights and a few ornaments that are all the same shape and color puts a modern spin on the conventional tree. For a more boho feel, you could make a tree out of unexpected materials, such as driftwood or metal. Just remember, less is more.

Add Accents

Incorporating simple accents to your existing décor is key to achieving a clean, minimalistic feel when decorating for the holidays. Rather than replacing every knick-knack and piece of furniture you own with a holiday-inspired one, try adding small festive features to what you already have. This can be done by stringing garland over a mantle or a window, scattering candles or greenery throughout a bookshelf, or hanging a simple wreath over a mirror. Small additions like these can greatly affect the overall atmosphere of a room. Even better, they cost little time and money!

Bring the Outdoors In

One of the most effective ways to create a festive, yet contemporary feel in your home is to pull in some pieces from nature. Integrating branches, twigs, or pine cones into the room is an easy, understated way to make your space feel cheery and charming. Best of all, the options are endless. Branches can be used to hang ornaments from the ceiling; twigs can be made into a bare wreath or displayed with white lights in a glass vase; pine cones can be placed in a bowl with lights or berries–the sky is the limit for this budget-friendly decorating technique.

Neutral Tones

Nothing says modern or minimalistic quite like keeping your decorating tones neutral. For a particularly clean look, trade in the anticipated reds and greens of the season for subtle whites, creams, and tans. To still maintain that special holiday feel, mix neutrals in with gold, bronze, and wooden accents. Neutral throw pillows, stockings, and ornaments will let your style and personality shine through your home without overpowering the space.

Understated Wrapping

Once your home is adorned in its modern holiday best, it’s time to think about what to dress your gifts in, since they will likely be on display for all to see as well. To ensure your gifts stay uncomplicated yet merry, you only need 3 things: craft paper, twine, and greenery. Keeping the paper all the same color, such as brown or white, then tying it up with twine makes for a thoughtful, authentic aesthetic. A sprig of greenery from a eucalyptus or Christmas tree adds a pop of color and the perfect touch to complete the overall look. If you’re feeling particularly creative, try pinning a Polaroid photo of the person you’re giving it to with a small clothespin in place of a name tag. 

Decorating for the holidays doesn’t have to be too complicated or stressful. Keeping your decor simple and minimalist ensures that your home is still cheerful during the holidays, your decor stays subtle yet stylish, and that it’s even easier to switch out for the next season. With a home that reflects minimalism and simplicity, you can focus on what’s really important this holiday season, like making memories with the people you love!