A Classic English Christmas 2021

Christmas A CLASSIC ENGLISH

A special supplement to

ENGLISH ROSES B AR E RO OT S E AS O N

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S C AN F O R

Gabriel Oak

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24 CONTENTS 6 CLASSICALLY COUNTRY Traditional Christmas

decorating to suit a grand country house.

12 NATURAL BEAUTY Making the most of winter

greenery for an understated, pared-back look.

18 ELEGANT SIMPLICITY Chic ideas in snow white and

softly shimmering metallics for a smart townhouse.

24 HOMESPUN CHARM Handmade decorations with

rustic charm in a cheerful palette of red and white.

30 THE FINISHING TOUCH Add scent and colour with

spiced oranges and pine.

6

COVER IMAGE AMARA LIVING

18 Editor Samantha Scott-Jeffries Supplement Editor Katy Mclean Managing Editor Sarah Feeley Art Editor Rebecca Stead Supplement Art Editor Mark Bradley Sub Editor Lea Tacey Supplement Sub Editor Jill Shearer Features Editor Eve Middleton Homes & Lifestyle Editor Clair Wayman Editor-at-Large Kate Freud Editorial Assistant Nell Whitaker

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Christmas wishes

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PHOTOGRPAHY GAP INTERIORS/CLIVE NICHOLS

hristmas is steeped in ritual and tradition, and although we may be tempted by new trends, it is those classic schemes of red, gold and green; silvers and whites; or abundant natural greenery that most often appeal. Of course, the beauty of keeping things classic is that they can easily be added to year after year, and shopping for special new additions to hang with ceremony is a joy to cherish in the excitement of December.

These ever-popular ideas suit many of our English homes perfectly, gently complementing exisiting decor as it is enriched for the festivitites. Here we explore four classic ways to deck the halls for Christmas – whether for a charming cottage, a grand country estate or a smart period townhouse.

Wishing you all a very merry Christmas.

Katy Mclean, Supplement Editor Follow us on Twitter @englishhometeam Pinterest at pinterest.com/theenglishhome Facebook at facebook.com@theenglishhome Instagram at instagram.com@englishhomemag

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Twitter @englishhometeam Pinterest at pinterest.com/theenglishhome Facebook at facebook.com@theenglishhome Instagram at instagram.com@englishhomemag THE ENGLISH HOME 5

PHOTOGRAPH © JAKE EASTHAM

Celebrate a classic English Christmas with rich colour and traditional decorations.

Classically COUNTRY Evoke the layered look of a grand country house with traditional festive flavours

Layered look The classic country-house style features a lot of colour and pattern, so keep Christmas decorations traditional in red, gold and green.

6 THE ENGLISH HOME

COMFORT & JOY

Chestnuts roasting on an open fire, mince pies baking in the Aga and a tree resplendent in red and gold – such ingredients combine to set the scene for a classic country Christmas. Whether you are at home or a large hired property to gather the family together for the festivities, the country house is an idyllic setting for a festive period filled with tradition. Period features, antiques and plenty of pattern are likely to already be present, so decking the halls should be limited to abundant rich winter foliage and given flair with golden baubles and a few touches of ruby red. Give an impressive staircase the focus it deserves with a fir garland adorned with ribbons. Use bows, ivy, mistletoe and holly on boughs or wound around lighting, and welcome one and all with a glorious wreath on the imposing front door. The Christmas tree should be a real one, of course, and as large as possible; some homes may accommodate a tree both in the entrance hall and the sitting room. Dress it with treasured decorations, large baubles, ribbons, white lights and a shimmering star or angel to crown it.

A steady stream of freshly baked mince pies will keep the scent of Christmas in the air. Light a roaring fire and gather round the piano for a merry sing-song with a festive tipple in hand.

True classic Red, gold and green is the classic colour combination for Christmas – mix round baubles in diferent sizes with homemade and treasured decorations collected over the years.

Festive feature A cast-iron press has been transformed into a yuletide display with wonderful country charm. A vintage set of scales, the bowl filled with nuts adorned with sprigs of holly would evoke a similar feel.

Prints charming Give presents a country appeal by using offcuts of fabrics as a stylish way to add rich pattern. Ribbons and pom-pom trims add another layer of consideration.

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Heart of the home Though the sitting room is usually the focal point of festive decor, do not neglect the kitchen. Simple sprigs of winter foliage on lights or on shelves, and deorations hung in place of utensils will work wonders. Set the mood for teatime mince pies with elegant candles.

8 THE ENGLISH HOME

A joy to give Wallpapers can make an alternative choice for gift wrap with a difference. Taking time to add pretty flourishes sets a creative tone.

WELCOME ONE AND ALL

A wreath upon the door is an inviting sight from early December.

Foliage provides for a long-lasting display that can be enhanced, if desired, with fresh roses that can be replaced. This simple arrangement (below) has a relaxed and slightly wild feel, yet the overall effect is lusciously abundant and perfectly traditional. Use a wire or willow wreath and work in a main structure of fir or spruce, then add interest with variegated holly leaves and trailing sprigs of ivy.

Red berries will enliven the display with rich, ruby tones. Attach a few pine cones with florists’ wire for extra texture. 

ABOVE Understated excellence A co-ordinating garland and wreath made using natural, dried materials in muted tones, sets a quiet, restrained, yet luxurious tone that does not fight with exisiting decor.

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PERFECT SERVE

FEATURE KATY MCLEAN PHOTOGRAPHS P6 © LIVING4MEDIA / ANDREAS VON EINSIEDEL. P7 (TOP RIGHT) © LIVING4MEDIA / ANDREAS VON EINSIEDEL; (OTHERS) GAP INTERIORS/THE CONTENTED NEST. P8 © LIVING4MEDIA / ANDREAS VON EINSIEDEL. P9 (TOP LEFT) GAP INTERIORS / THE CONTENTED NEST; (OTHERS) © LIVING4MEDIA / ANDREAS VON EINSIEDEL. P10 © LIVING4MEDIA / GREAT STOCK!. P11 GAP INTERIORS/THE CONTENTED NEST.

Celebrate in style with freshly baked mince pies and a slice of home-made Christmas cake accompanied with a festive cocktail garnished with a little fresh fruit.

Add a favourite fruity liqueur to a glass of Champagne embracing yuletide flavours with clementine or spiced plum gins – or, for a refreshing twist, serve white port and tonic. Ensure there are low or no alcohol options available too. There is a multitude of non-alcoholic spirits and wines, including sparkling, available that will ensure those not wishing to drink alcohol have equally sophisticated tipples. ■

10 THE ENGLISH HOME

Grand gesture The scale and richness of a large country house can afford a certain amount of extravagance here and there. This impressive mantel display works with the size of the fireplace and has a wild feel that perfectly suits the eclectic English scheme.

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BEAUTY

Dress the home with winter evergreens and natural elements for a fresh festive look infused with pared-back charm

Circle of life From a simple wreath to something more elaborate, use a variety of foliage to create decorations to hang on walls, doors, or on the backs of dining chairs for an extra level of detail at the Christmas table.

12 THE ENGLISH HOME

DECK THE HALLS Bringing in greenery to dress the home dates back to pagan times and has evolved into the tradition of dressing a tree as the centrepiece to festivities. Using the bountiful supply of seasonal evergreen foliage as a starting point, pair with other natural and paper decorations for a classically simple Christmas look which will work beautifully in a country house with an understated or pared-back interior. This simple scheme does not feature spangle or glitz, rather it celebrates the natural beauty of the season.

Wreaths, garlands, table decorations – even adornments on presents – can all be made from sprigs of fir, holly, ivy, dried seed heads and dried flowers. Keep to natural additions such as cinnamon sticks, dried oranges, pinecones and feathers; add crisp white paper decorations such as paper trees, snowflakes and stars.

White candles and perhaps a few strings of white lights will add atmospheric glow to highlight the beauty of seasonal foliage.

Wrap presents in brown paper, tied with string or raffia and finished with a flourish of greenery.  LEFT Twelve days of Christmas Create a pretty centrepiece or advent display with bottles used as candle holders. Fill with a large sprig of greenery.

BELOW Room service Make guest bedrooms welcoming with festive cotton or canvas stockings, a flourish of greenery and scented candles.

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LIGHT A CANDLE

This homemade centrepiece is beautiful in its simplicity. Using an offcut of wood – sanded and given a whitewash or light wax if desired – drill holes to hold candles snugly, either in rows or in a less uniform pattern. Finish with a few long strands of ivy gently woven round some of the candles and one or two smaller sprigs of holly. 

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CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT Easy elegance A simply folded napkin tied with string is given a little panache with some sprigs of spruce and a cinnamon stick.

Scents of the season Add homemade decorations of gingerbread and dried oranges for festive aromas.

Warming up A hot mulled wine is just the ticket after foraging for greenery.

Combine sugar and spices such as cloves, cinnamon and star anise.

Nature’s treasure Evergreens studded with jewelbright berries are a welcome sight in the depths of winter.

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CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT Natural connection Peg paper envelopes filled with a treat or missive and adorn with a sprig of foliage, a feather or seed head. A similar treatment could be used for gift tags.

Seasonal pleasure Cracking nuts in front of the fire is a winter delight.

Christmas candle Have a little fun with festive candles to add interest to a centrepiece.

Wild beauty A rustic celebration of spruce, pine cones, berries, mistletoe and cinnamon sticks.

16 THE ENGLISH HOME

PAPERWORK

FEATURE KATY MCLEAN PHOTOGRAPHS P12 GAP PHOTOS/VICTORIA FIRMSTON. P13 (TOP) FLORA PRESS/EWA; (BOTTOM) © LIVING4MEDIA / ANDREAS VON EINSIEDEL. P14 GAP INTERIORS. P15 (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) FLORA PRESS/EWA; SHUTTERSTOCK/ANASTASIYAAND; FLORA PRESS/EWA; SPIKE POWELL/EWA. P16 (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) GAP INTERIORS/ROBIN STUBBERT; FLORA PRESS/EWA; © LIVING4MEDIA /NICOLINE OLSEN; GAP PHOTOS/ JONATHAN BUCKLEY. P17 (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT) © LIVING4MEDIA/ GREAT STOCK!; GAP INTERIORS/BUREAUX; © LIVING4MEDIA/ FOODCOLLECTION.

Set aside an afternoon in December to make paper decorations – a lovely thing to do with children, who can make simpler snowflake designs – experimenting with cutting different shapes to create pieces as unique as real falling snow. The more adventurous may wish to explore options involving origami or traditional papercutting techniques for elaborate designs that add a magical touch when hung in windows, from chandeliers or against the luscious deep green of the tree. n

ABOVE Bright star Snowflakes or stars in white are ideal for adding some shapes and contrast to an all-natural scheme.

BELOW With love Show recipients extra care with prettily presented gifts, finished with a sprig of holly or herbs.

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Elegant SIMPLICITY Combine crisp snow whites with the shimmer of silver and gold for a chic, grown-up scheme for the festivities 18 THE ENGLISH HOME

Snow white Use Avalanche white roses for grandeur in floral arrangements on the table and mantelpiece

Perfectly placed A beautiful mantel display can be created with just a few sprigs of spruce and eucalptus punctuated by pretty tealights in glasses and silvered vases filled with a few white roses. Simple but effective.

BELOW Golden touch Shimmering satin ribbons in white, silver and gold will finish giftwrap beautifully.

ALL IS CALM Embrace the magic and twinkle with chic and shimmering decorations to create a sophisticated take on a winter wonderland.

Most suited to town houses and smart period properties, this palette of whites and metallics enriched with evergreens is simple but effective. The pale decorations will work well with white-painted or ornate cornicing yet will not overpower more neutrally decorated rooms. Though silvers can give a slightly more contemporary feel, this is an enduring look, that shimmers rather than dazzles. Golden hues will add richness and warmth creating a scheme that is glamorous without being overly glitzy.

Mercury-silver baubles or candlesticks and votives offer a soft, ambient gleam paired with more twinkly crystal and glass.

Candlelight – from either classic Roman candles, or long tapered dinner candles – and soft white lights set a calm, elegant tone as dusk descends. Choose refined natural elements for this smart, sophisticated aesthetic – delicate eucalyptus is perfect with its oval leaves and silvery-green hue, with the added allure of a delicious scent. White roses will look sublime in simple arrangements on side tables or on the mantelpiece and add opulence to a natural wreath.

Snowflake motifs have a natural affinity with this pale, frosted palette, whether on tree decorations or pretty ribbons for adorning silver- or white-paper-wrapped gifts. A few hints of gold will also add some depth but avoid other colours – including blues – which would give this an altogether different feel. Here all is calm, all is bright – with just a sprinkling of festive sparkle. THE ENGLISH HOME 19

RIGHT Pure & simple Keep to a palette of winter white and silver or Champagne gold for the tree.

Glass baubles with pretty paper or foil detailing are both chic and effective.

BELOW Silvery glow Enhance fresh white or grey interiors at Christmas with a gentle sprinkling of sparkly accessories such as mercury-silver votives and a string of metallic stars.

LEFT Present perfect Presents wrapped in shimmering paper catching glints of light from under the tree add to the sense of wonder and anticipation.

WELL PRESENTED

Ensure the presents beneath the tree look stylish and beautifully considered by co-ordinating wrapping paper to the colour scheme. Silvers and whites lend themselves to snowflake and star patterns for a Christmassy look, or here, the shimmer of silver gives a festive feel to a floral pattern. Using patterned and plain papers, cut wide strips of the contrasting paper to create a ribbon-like effect, further enhanced by an actual ribbon. Here (above), although there is a metallic shimmer, the paper is not a foil, but a printed Kraft paper that perfectly complements this pared-back, calm and refined, but elegantly understated look.  20 THE ENGLISH HOME

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT Old-fashioned glamour Imbue this sleeker look with a traditional feel with antiquedsilver baubles, either hung on the tree or displayed in a glass bowl as a decorative feature in a hallway or on a coffee table.

Champagne sparkle There is nothing quite like the fizz of a favourite Champagne to create an uplifting, celebratory feel.

Golden glimmer Warm things up with a golden theme for the tree. Stick to gold but combine a variety of different shapes for interest.

Clip-on candle-style tree lights temper the contemporary feel to make this perfectly suited to a period home.

THE ENGLISH HOME 21

LET IT SHINE

Create an eye-catching display for a centrepiece, sideboard or hallway table.

Arranging everything on a large ornate tray will make the display more portable should the need arise to move it. Place chicken wire across the base to hold foliage and work with a variety of different sprigs for texture and colour, adding in larger pieces for height. Aromatic choices such as eucalyptus, rosemary or sage will add an extra sensory dimension. Weave leaves around an assortment of candles – here large gold ones add glamour, but classic white would look equally pretty – particularly with the inclusion of a few sprays of gypsophila or white roses. Always make sure lit candles are not left unattended. n

22 THE ENGLISH HOME

FEATURE KATY MCLEAN PHOTOGRAPHS P24 GAP INTERIORS/BRUCE HEMMING. P25 (TOP) GAP INTERIORS/CLIVE NICHOLS; (BOTTOM) GAP PHOTOS/ VICTORIA FIRMSTON. P26 (CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT) GAP INTERIORS/CLIVE NICHOLS; PRESS/EWA; GAP INTERIORS/ROBIN STUBBERT. P27 (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP) SHUTTERSTOCK/JESSICA RUSCELLO; SHUTTERSTOCK/JAG_CZ; GAP PHOTOS/FRIEDRICH STRAUSS. P28 GAP PHOTOS. P29 (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) GAP INTERIORS/ANYA RICE; SHUTTERSTOCK/CLAUDIA PAULUSSEN; GAP PHOTOS/JULIETTE WADE; GAP INTERIORS/THE CONTENTED NEST.

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE Make an entrance Set the scene with a frosted wreath and a string of silver bells.

Added sparkle Spray pinecones, holly leaves and branches with metallic spray to add a dusting of magic to natural decorations.

Lovingly adorned Enhance a candle with a small decoration tied around it, or use numbers for an advent display.

Festive flourish Create a display in a hallway with a vase filled with elegantly branching twigs from which to hang treasured decorations.

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Homespun CHARM

Complement pretty cottage-style charm with hand-made decorations with accents of classic red and white

Upstairs downstairs Combined with a rambling ivy garland and generous gingham bows dotted with a handful of fairy lights, these homemade stockings create a magical festive display to draw the eye up to bed on Christmas Eve. 24 THE ENGLISH HOME

A MERRY LITTLE CHRISTMAS

Handmade decorations, nostalgic touches and magical ideas for children create a quintessential cottage feel at Christmas. Red and white is the predominant palette, used in hand-sewn (or purchased) felt or fabric stockings, candy canes, gingham ribbons and painted wooden decorations. A little twinkling of fairy lights is the only sparkle in this scheme that eschews glitz in favour of an altogether quainter Christmas look. Gingham is a key element – used in ribbons both to hang decorations and adorn presents as well as adding flair to garlands and wreaths. Hang little jingle-bell decorations on door handles to delight both young and old with ideas that St Nicholas might soon be on his way. Gingerbread decorations are also a welcome touch – either hung on the tree or tied up with ribbon or cheerful striped bakers’ twine as a gift to friends and family. Simple displays of holly and mistletoe add texture and a hint of the outdoors whilst felt or knitted stockings embellished with a name or initials add a personal touch. BELOW Small is beautiful Keep the tree in proportion with a bijou cottage. A potted variety displayed in a rattan basket is perfect for this period property.

RIGHT Simple pleasures Create a display of handpainted decorations to hang with string or ribbon. Here pussy willow gives a subtle nod to snowy scenes.

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MADE WITH LOVE

Biscuit decorations look deliciously Christmassy hung either on the tree or from a bare-branched display in the kitchen or hallway. A strong biscuit such as gingerbread or (not-too crumbly) shortbread is best.

Add a few festive flavours such as cinnamon or orange zest to a standard shortbread recipe for aromatic interest – gingerbread men, hearts, stars and angels are traditional festive shapes. Don’t forget to skewer a hole large enough to thread a length of bright ribbon at the top before baking. Hang on the tree… before they are snapped up with a cup of tea by the fire.

26 THE ENGLISH HOME

CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE The holly bears a berry A wreath of holly, resplendent with ruby berries instantly evokes the spirit of Christmas.

Checking it twice Gingham checks in red and white are inherent to this look. Use in abundance on giftwrap.

Spot of fun Baubles can afford to be a little playful. Polka dot spots are rather charming; also consider snowflakes and hearts in red and white.

Full of joy Ribbons can be added to pots, candles, baskets – even the dog – to add joyful notes to every room.

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LEFT Winter scene Create pretty vignettes to set a wintry mood. Vintage ice skates, a basket of pine cones and a pitcher of holly set against the glow of a candle-lit lantern create an alluring scene in a hallway.

FESTIVE COUNTDOWN

An advent calendar always helps to build the excitement and anticipation of Christmas Day. Make a home-made one which can be brought out lovingly in years to come, as well as creating a beautiful decoration in its own right.

Create a frame from which to hang small bags, each filled with a token gift, chocolate or sweet message. Choose red and white cottons in gingham, ticking stripes or small spots – or perhaps a snowflake or fir tree motif. Number with brown paper tags, stamped or handwritten in red ink. Add a few extra cherished decorations – these rocking horses will delight children, but reindeers or Father Christmas designs would be equally lovely. n 28 THE ENGLISH HOME

FEATURE KATY MCLEAN PHOTOGRAPHS P18 GAP INTERIORS/THE CONTENTED NEST. P19 GAP INTERIORS/COLIN POOLE. P20 FLORA PRESS/EWA. P21 (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT) GAP PHOTOS/ FRIEDRICH STRAUSS; FLORA PRESS/EWA; GAP PHOTOS; DI LEWIS/EWA. P22 (ADVENT CALENDAR) GAP PHOTOS/FRIEDRICH STRAUSS; (OTHERS) GAP INTERIORS/THE CONTENTED NEST. P23 (CLOCKWISE FROM TOP) GAP PHOTOS/FRIEDRICH STRAUSS; GAP PHOTOS/FRIEDRICH STRAUSS; GAP INTERIORS/MARK SCOTT

Classic beauty Red roses add a touch of oldfashioned romance.

Display them in a vintage jug, rather than a vase to keep the look charmingly rustic.

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP Stocking fillers Ideally handknitted with love, a sweet display of stockings will always be perfect for this nostalgic feel.

Jingle all the way Add a little Christmas magic with tiny bells on decorations that will gently jingle as the door is opened.

All wrapped up Mix and match papers, ribbons and bows for a look that will be softly coordinating whilst not too fussy.

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A final festive flourish to create the classic scent of Christmas

30 THE ENGLISH HOME

Oranges, spices and pine are some of the most evocative fragrances of the season, instantly conjuring Christmas with a single burst of their heady aromas.

No matter which classic decorating style has been adopted, the addition of oranges will work beautifully.

Dry slices in the oven at a low heat over an afternoon, then string them into a garland or perhaps add some colour to a wreath. Pomanders – oranges decoratively studded with cloves – can be displayed in bowls or vases, adding both colour and scent. ■

PHOTOGRAPHY OVE LINDFORS/ FLORA PRESS/ EWA

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