A Global-Inspired Holiday Décor Idea

Follow designer Jules Moore’s four simple tips to create a festive space.

What better source for a festive décor tip than from a designer who found inspiration from a Nordic reindeer for her home’s color palette? Look no further than Jules Moore. While her Pueblo-style home is in Santa Fe, she was drawn to the velvety silver-grays, rich browns, and crisp whites of the beloved animal she spotted throughout her time in Norway on an interior design project.

To help create an inviting seasonal vibe, Moore’s décor idea blends two personal passions: travel and hosting dreamy gatherings. “For this global-inspired holiday idea, I incorporate pieces and ornaments that I’ve found from traveling around the world—things that remind me of all my international friends—so that when everyone comes over, there’s a little piece of them in the décor,” Moore said. Exhibit A? A felted elephant from a dear friend in India.

Ever the visionary, Jules has a new way to use those classic ornaments you’ve collected over the years to create the coziest of spaces for conversations at your next gathering. Follow these four simple steps to bring a little cheer to your home this year.

"For this global-inspired holiday idea, I incorporate pieces and ornaments that I’ve found from traveling around the world—things that remind me of all my international friends— so that when everyone comes over, there’s a little piece of them in the décor."

Frame the view

In front of an inspiring vista, layer throws and pillows on a bench, comfy chairs, or soft ottomans to create a conversation nook for guests.

Jules Moore sitting in front of Marvin Signature Ultimate Awning Narrow Frame Window

Moore layers a saddle-bag pillow from Turkey, a sheepskin from New Zealand (where Jules was born and raised) and other natural, organic textures to create a comfortable place for guests to sit and connect.

Bring in the branches

This could mean exploring your own backyard, which is exactly what Moore did with the Aspen branches featured here. Or, if your neck of the woods is a little shy on trees, head to a farmer’s market or local craft supply shop. Then, use fishing wire and clear adhesive hooks to hang each branch on the wall just above the top of your window’s frame. Pro tip from Moore: create visual interest by hanging the branches at different heights and angles by using different lengths of fishing wire.

Mine for memories

Delve into the storage bins and dust off the ornaments. It’s time to find which of them you’ll make a part of this festive display. With space for 15 – 20 ornaments, “reach for the ornaments that instantly spark a memory,” Moore said.

Tie it up with a bow

Once you have winnowed down to your favorite ornaments, tie varying lengths of ribbon to them. To complement the warm and neutral tones found throughout Moore’s home, she opted for different metallic-hued ribbons. Next, tie the other end of the ribbon directly to one of the three branches, leaving enough space in between to allow the view to come through and to avoid any tangling between ornaments. Pro trip: don’t be shy on the ribbon – you can always cut the excess off after you’ve found where you want to hang them.