Nate Berkus Proves Traditional Red And Green Christmas Decor Isn't A Must In Every Home

If you're looking for an alternative to red and green Christmas decor, designer Nate Berkus shows us that traditional colors may not be necessary in every home. Known for his high-end, contemporary designs, the "The Nate and Jeremiah Home Project" star typically prefers subdued shades over vibrant hues, especially when decorating for the holidays. "I tend to reach for neutral or metallic ornaments and napkins, and I mix them with hand-knitted animal ornaments and handwoven placemats," he explains (via Veranda). Berkus favors shades of black, brown, white, or tan, including silver and gold. Although red and green are complementing hues when it comes to Christmas decorating, there are many other neutral palettes to deck the halls with.

How does Nate Berkus style his Christmas? The dinner table is where the designer loves to showcase the most wonderful time of the year. Berkus might create a warm, holiday setting with various textures within a specific colorless array. "I think it's about layering, and I think it's just really about telling the story that you want to tell," he says (via Introspective). The innovative designer looks to existing pieces like vintage pottery, plates, and glassware while emanating an earthy, yet sophisticated vibe. Natural materials are also displayed with backyard branch clippings or versatile lighting to heighten a tablescape. While red and green Christmas decor isn't a must in every home, Nate Berkus proves that a muted, eclectic scheme can also make the season merry and bright.

You might decorate with classic red and green at Christmas, however, Nate Berkus likes to make an impression without the use of color. An avid traveler, he often combines found, neutral pieces when setting his holiday table. "One of the things I love to do is pull objects off of shelves and side tables and create this interesting story of pieces that technically don't go together or have any purpose other than decoration, I do that every time we set the table, whether it's for dinner with friends or for the holiday table for Thanksgiving or Christmas," he explains (via Introspective). Set the table with white antique dishes, clear glassware, and brass cups and saucers. Include natural elements like wooden candelabras, handwoven placemats, and vintage flatware. Additionally, Berkus loves to highlight a table with a vase of white roses, pampas grass, and birch wood logs. 

Lighting is also a significant element that the designer incorporates within his holiday layouts. "I love to leave flameless candles on all night, and wake up to this beautiful morning with coffee and all the candles lit," he says (via Veranda). Berkus also likes to display crystals in bowls for an additional flicker amidst the candlelight. Trim the tree with white, feathered bird ornaments or shiny gold and silver pieces. While holly and ivy are common Christmas decor, Nate Berkus confirms that you can illuminate your home with a neutral palette while remaining festive.