Whether you live in a condo, a basement suite, or you share a space with multiple roommates, you understand how challenging it can be to decorate a small space -- especially around the holidays.

But have no fear: you can still show off your festive side without having to forego the functionality of your space -- you just need to use decorating hacks that allow you to maximize the room you have available, without having to sacrifice style.


This holiday season, if you're looking to deck your halls -- but don't actually have the space for a full Christmas tree -- read on to learn about some last-minute space-saving holiday decorating tips from two local designers.

READ: Holiday Gift Guide 2020: A Directory for Checking Off Your Entire List

When Space is Limited

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If you lack space for traditional holiday decor, Jaclyn Genovese, founder of Spaces by Jac Flash, suggests opting for a bold wintry arrangement with frosty florals like bleached hanging amaranthus and dreamy branches of Lunaria that will serve as a festive tabletop alternative.

Revamp Your Furniture

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If you don't have a fireplace to hang your stockings with care, Genovese proposes revamping a buffet or dresser with garland, leaves, and holiday decor -- proving that there’s no need to take up valuable space to show off your Christmas spirit.

Let There Be Light

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Genovese also says you can give your home a festive holiday makeover by adding glowing lights on tables, curtains, and around mirrors and doorways. This will also help to draw the eyes in, and distract them from your small quarters.

Spruce-Up with Fresh Evergreens

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If you have no room for a traditional tree, Genovese recommends sprucing things up throughout your home by adding some touches of fresh evergreen. You can even attach ornaments or bows to the arrangement to polish off the display.

Pucker-Up

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Genovese recommends kissing 2020 goodbye by showing loved ones some festive affection by setting up a DIY mistletoe for a fun take on the centuries-old holiday tradition.

Simplify Your Centrepieces

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While the holidays are going to look a little different this year, it doesn't mean that your decor has to also be put on hold. Meredith Shaw, an inclusive style expert who regularly appears on The Marilyn Denis Show and just launched a holiday special of her show Double Your Dish, suggests keeping things simple by making your own DIY centrepieces that are made with items you most likely have in your home. 

Paper Straws and Mason Jars

All you need is a mason jar, some paper straws and a hot glue gun. If mistakes are made, not to worry -- that's where the strategically placed decorative ribbon comes in.

Candles and Cranberries

If you have 3.5 seconds, Shaw says you can make this. All you need is one hurricane vase, one candle, some cranberries and you're done.

Cupcake Christmas Tree

Ah, the cupcake stand you bought (but never use) that's now taking up space. Instead of letting it collect dust, Shaw recommends putting it to use. All you need to do is take any extra Christmas ball ornaments you didn't put on the tree and place them in each holder, and voila, you have yourself a cute Christmas tree.

Style + Décor