Caroline Harper Knapp transforms her familys Houston digs into a festive retreat for brightening spirits and forging new traditions.
“It had spent more than 80 days on the market,” she recalls.
“I think people were intimidated by the size of the project.”
Credit:Marta Xochilt Perez; Styling: Jenny OâConnor
“I would describe my holiday look as traditional but very sentimental,” she notes.
“I’m not one for a perfectly polished, themed tree.
Fabrics help bring in the home’s signature hue.
Credit: Marta Xochilt Perez; Styling: Jenny O’Connor
While blue is the tree’s prominent hue, Knapp introduced the classic green-and-red combo through the gift wrap.
The presents' mismatched ribbons were actually a happy accident.
“I’m a big fan of symmetry,” she says.
Credit: Marta Xochilt Perez; Styling: Jenny O’Connor
“And garland is so much easier to maintain than a tree.”
Knapp paired the banquette’s year-round green-and-blue throw pillows with a matching gingham tablecloth to increase the seasonal spirit.
Other nods to the holiday are more direct.
Credit: Marta Xochilt Perez; Styling: Jenny O’Connor
“They help make every meal feel just a little bit more special.”
Pops of evergreen add little moments of Christmas cheer.
“I had expensive taste on a budget,” she says.
Credit: Marta Xochilt Perez; Styling: Jenny O’Connor
A mural wallpaper enhanced the formality of the antiques while establishing the room’s palette.
Credit: Marta Xochilt Perez; Styling: Jenny O’Connor
Credit: Marta Xochilt Perez; Styling: Jenny O’Connor
Credit: Marta Xochilt Perez; Styling: Jenny O’Connor
Credit: Marta Xochilt Perez; Styling: Jenny O’Connor
Credit: Marta Xochilt Perez; Styling: Jenny O’Connor
