We’ll let you into a secret - we already have our tree up in the studio! We put it up to shoot this year’s Christmas card photo, and loved it so much we’ve kept it up!

Studio Dean is now a festive hub of merriment, while remaining classic and chic. We think we’ve hit the sweet spot with our cosy, classy decor so thought we’d share some tips on how to style Christmas like an interior designer. Get ready to welcome guests and show off your exquisite home at its best - not turn it into Santa’s grotto.

The key is to carefully curate your Christmas home accessories and make the decor temporarily part of your home. Oh and if, like me, you have young children, tell them that they can create a grotto in their bedrooms or the playroom, but the rest of the house has a ‘No Christmas Tat’ rule. Santa is watching…

TIP #1 DESIGN AROUND A CLASSIC PALLETTE

Keep the colours of the decoration in line with your home’s overall aesthetic. We're going to be controversial here and say that ‘red and green should never be seen’. They may be Santa's favourites, but rarely do they fit seamlessly into a stylish decor scheme.

We love simplicity and advise a paired back colour scheme. This means - we said it - no multicoloured trees please! We favour a natural approach to Xmas decor. Natural rustic materials paired with warm whites and neutrals will lift the scheme and create a high-end look.

Keep the tones warm and welcoming and you will be delighted when the rooms still feel authentic and not like you’ve shoehorned in the festivities. If you have some beloved, but let’s face it, hideous, shiny decorations, maybe donate them to the kids’ tree or create a small display somewhere for you to enjoy reminiscing in private.

TIP #2 BRING THE OUTSIDE INDOORS

Mother nature always knows best, so look outside for inspiration. Bringing in natural pieces can feel timeless and far more stylish than sparkle and (shudder) snow spray.

Opt for carved, wooden tree decorations, natural wreaths, linen and hessian covered pieces. Forage locally to give your home’s colour scheme some festive decor with greens through foliage, browns through twigs and pine cones, reds through berries etc. This ties Christmas into your home rather than displacing your beautiful rooms for a whole month.

The use of brown kraft paper for wrapping gifts with simple twine is a beautiful touch from both an aesthetic and sustainability point of view. Pop some foliage and berries into the twine for an extra touch of luxury.

Avoid plastic and novelty items if you want your scheme to last. It's so easy to get caught up in having your home fully decorated all at once, but this can seem contrived. Buying a couple of quality pieces each year creates a beautiful look that will stand the test of time and build fond memories as the collection grows.

Tip #3: USE ALL YOUR SENSES

Lighting is key. We love a classic fairy light, but always choose a warm white tone to keep it cosy. Steer clear of the flashing variety - rainbow coloured flashing lights don't give calm, chic vibes.

It’s beginning to smell a lot like Christmas… cinnamon, pine, gingerbread, wood smoke - we love them all! Curate the scents in your home to create a festive vibe throughout, using natural ingredients wherever possible - dehydrated orange slices, pine twigs and festive baking work wonders. Look for essential oils and good quality soy wax in candles and sniff before you buy!

‘Tis the season to get out that furry throw blanket. Warm, cosy textures are key - keep them as natural and neutral as possible and create a chic ski chalet vibe.

Once you have set the scene, create a few festive playlists to suit your mood and indulge in some festive mince pies or even a cheeky mulled wine to round off all your senses.