Christmas is a magical and very special season, a time to bring the family together, and where, although everyone has their own rituals, there are symbolic elements that cannot be missing. The wreath on the front door, the nativity scene, the Christmas tree, which in many homes is put up right at the beginning of December… and the table, which takes centre stage. After all, it’s around it that the family will gather, savour traditional recipes and share stories and memories. That’s why it needs to be prepared with care and great attention.
There’s nothing better than talking to someone who really knows their stuff, to share the best tips and advice, and present it in all its splendour.
Here are the concepts of Manuel Arez, a graduate in architecture and one of the founding partners of the Conceitos de Arte studio, a reference in the fields of architecture and interior design.
As Christmas is a traditional celebration, what do you consider to be the current trends for decorating the Christmas table? What colour palette and essential elements would you recommend for decorating the Christmas Eve table and Christmas lunch?
Christmas is a time of celebration and affection, and increasingly, decorating trends mix the classic with modern and natural elements, bringing comfort, elegance and personality.
Traditional colours, such as red, green and gold, are timeless, but shades like ivory and emerald green have also been gaining ground, bringing contemporaneity and irreverence to the space. The essential elements on a table are the tablecloth, the tableware and the candlesticks, which help create a cosy atmosphere. Adding small natural details, such as pine branches and dried fruits, enriches the arrangement and brings the season’s aroma to the table.
In your opinion, which table décor pieces are worth investing in and can be reused year after year without losing their relevance?
The foundational pieces that bring timelessness are the best investments for setting a long-lasting and elegant Christmas table.
Among these items, a timelessly designed cutlery set stands out—an essential piece for all festive occasions that remains current over the years. Complementing that choice, a set of porcelain plates and crystal glasses are indispensable elements, able to stand the test of time and stay current year after year.
Although it’s not directly part of the table, it’s worth investing in a Christmas tree. Choosing a high-quality artificial tree that preserves its beauty over the years allows you to explore different ornament combinations and vary the décor according to the desired style.
So, by investing in a Christmas tree, a classic cutlery set and a timeless set of plates and glasses, we create a solid, long-lasting base that can be personalised each year without losing charm and elegance.
How can we integrate older pieces, full of memories, without the décor losing its contemporary feel? What suggestions would you give for incorporating small details that make the table décor more personal?
Integrating old pieces into Christmas décor is a way to bring family memories and stories to the table. The key is to balance these pieces with contemporary elements to create a harmonious composition.
For example, I suggest incorporating vintage tableware or glasses with a more neutral, modern dinnerware set. These classic items take centre stage and are highlighted by the contrast with current pieces. Another special detail is using vintage napkins or small embroidered cloths that can be placed on bread plates, adding a delicate, traditional touch.
To make the décor even more personal, adding small details full of meaning makes all the difference. We can use old pieces as centrepieces or create personalised place cards with handwritten notes.
That way, by mixing these objects with contemporary touches, we achieve a table with personality—one that honours the past and embraces the present.
What small details make a difference on a Christmas table and are usually overlooked? What should we avoid?
Details such as personalised place cards, small holly sprigs and other Christmas-themed decorative elements on the napkins add a special touch and make the table more festive. It’s important, however, to avoid excess. Items that block the view or make interaction between guests difficult should be avoided.
Another important point is planning where to place serving platters and other elements needed for dinner, ensuring the décor layout works in harmony with the practicality of using the table. In this way, the balance between décor and functionality contributes to a pleasant, well-organised celebration.
For those who prefer a more minimalist and natural look, what would you recommend?
For a minimalist look, I recommend using a neutral palette with natural elements: tablecloths in soft tones, ceramic plates in white or pearl, eucalyptus, pine or holly branches along the table instead of a bulky centrepiece. Candles in simple candlesticks also help create a warm atmosphere without overwhelming the space.
Christmas at Horto do Campo Grande is a magical time. Artificial Christmas trees in different shapes and sizes are decorated with lights and ornaments, from the most classic to the most original. Decor items, candlesticks, candles, tableware with seasonal motifs, music boxes, snow globes, trains, reindeer, nutcrackers and Santa Clauses are a delight for the little ones.
It’s a very busy time: natural pines arrive, fir trees in different sizes, and at the florist, centrepieces, garlands and Christmas wreaths are requested daily by private and corporate clients.
In your home, which décor elements could you not do without?
The décor elements I can’t do without include the Christmas tree and the wreath on the front door, which are always put up at the beginning of December, and the nativity scene, a spiritual symbol. In addition, I pay a lot of attention to the Christmas table, including a decorative tablecloth, plates and candlesticks, as well as small natural details such as pine branches, holly and dried fruits, which add charm and the season’s aroma. On the table, I like to have flowers, chocolates and fruit.
How do you balance natural and artificial elements?
I usually choose an artificial Christmas tree for its practicality and durability, but I complement it with natural plants and flowers on the dining table and in arrangements around the house. That way, I get the best of both worlds: the ease of maintenance and resilience of artificial elements, combined with the freshness and beauty of natural details.
Do you prefer to keep the same style throughout the house, or does each room have its own style?
I prefer each room to have its own style, allowing for a more personalised décor adapted to the characteristics and functions of each space. This makes it possible for me to create unique, cosy atmospheres in each area, reflecting what’s most suitable for the place. However, it’s essential that these styles connect harmoniously, creating visual flow between spaces. To achieve that, I try to maintain a colour palette and decorative elements that complement each other, ensuring each room has its identity without losing the sense of unity throughout the house. That way, I can balance personalisation with aesthetic cohesion, creating a home that is both unique and welcoming.
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