The most wonderful time of the year is fast approaching and our flat still has zero signs of the holidays. Basically, I’m coming clean here by saying that it’s the middle of November and I haven’t decorated. Heck, I don’t even have an idea what look I’ll be going for this year. For someone who’s half Filipino, this equals to sacrilege. We start decorating in September, back in Manila. My situation is even made worse by the fact that I’m currently living in Berlin – the capital of one of the most Christmassy countries in the world. I have no excuse other than my being busy with events and my freelancing. Thankfully, I was able to get some inspiration recently when I attended the holiday preview of Graf’s Kontor. I even got to chat with the people behind some of the city’s most fabulous decor and floral arrangements and asked them about this year’s holiday decor trends.
Graf’s Kontor houses one of Berlin’s most popular floral shops, just off Kurfürstendamm. Hotel and PR professionals Markus Otto Graf and Sangeeta Berkelmann run the place along with utterly talented florists Antje Endres (who bring in years of experience and expertise) and Aya Miyake (who bring in a Japanese touch). They even make arrangements for the top-tier hotels and boutiques in Berlin.
Embracing the holidays in Berlin is definitely not a hard thing to do. You won’t run out of choices for decor and for busy people like me, there are shops like Graf’s Kontor who can do everything for you – just tell them what you want and how you like it. The Germans take this season seriously with lots of tradition involved. If you’re dead serious on embracing the holiday spirit, check out the trends that you might want to incorporate into your home below.
Tartan
This classy style that trendsetters have already declared as ‘out’ will still be seen in some arrangements this year. This, because of the popularity the tartan pattern was able to garner from 2017. It’s the kind that endures. You even see it making such a huge come back in fashion and it has, of course, translated to home and holiday decor as well. Personally, I have no complaints letting it stay for a while longer. Let’s hope it does and hopefully, even longer than the evil reign of the tacky mullet skirt a couple of years back. This classic pattern would deserve it, at least.
I love what they did with this arrangement that also contains earthy and autumn elements.
All White
White is always a safe colour if you want something to look luxurious but with minimal effort. I love how the team gave it an update by adding some sparkle along with wildlife elements that made it look homier and inviting. Seriously – just how adorable are those foxes?
Rose with Succulents
For 2017, I did a pastel and gold Christmas for our home. It was quite difficult to find pastel-coloured decor last year. For some reason, there weren’t a lot of choices available. ‘Lo and behold. For the 2018 holidays, pastels are one of the most popular themes. You see pastel-coloured decor all over Berlin this year and the Graf’s Kontor interpretation of the trend is nothing short of gorgeous.
“We used lots of rosa (pink) for this arrangement,” Endres said. “Then, we added some succulents for a more exotic feel.”
While you’re at it, why not pick up some Roederer Champagne for the holidays? The shop is one of the few places where you can easily get it. Pick the Rosé vintage to match it with your decor.
Peacock
Peacock and the shades of blue, green, and gold that came with it were insanely popular last year. So, it’s no surprise that the trend, like tartan, will have a spill-over for this holiday season. Won’t this piece look absolutely lovely on your dinner or console table?
Merlot and Art Deco
Lastly, Graf says that colour trends and themes, starting from this year and going on to the next ones, will start to get richer. “People want something cosier when they get home. Something for hygge,” he added. Instead of the usual bright red, people will tend to gravitate towards its bolder cousin – Merlot.
Definitely, definitely cosy. I’m in love with it!
Graf adds that the resurgence of Art Deco is also affecting holiday decor. Just look at these pretty ornaments that will remind you so much of the 1920s.
You can get decor as well as your floral and table arrangements done at:
Graf’s Kontor
Giesebrechtstraße 10
D-10629 Berlin
Phone: +49 (0) 30 8836163
Email: kontor@grafskontor.de
Website
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What about you guys? What theme are you gunning for this holiday season? Let me know in the comments below! Would love to get some more inspiration.
More later!
*Event invite, not sponsored*
Such great ideas!!!