Decorating Guides
Dutch Homes Deck Out for the Holidays
Showing that the proof of Christmas is not in the porch, these windows and doors in a Netherlands neighborhood send a festive message
Christmas is a wonderful time of year to show off your creative side and get festive by decorating your home. But many cities and towns around the world don't have sprawling front lawns to decorate, including most homes in the Netherlands. I jumped on the bicycle and snapped a few festive facades to show you how the locals in my Dutch hometown are decorating for the holidays.
The Dutch town of Delft is blessed with many things: charm, character and centuries-old homes. But most city dwellings in this part of the world are not blessed with front porches. But that doesn't stop the residents from getting festive.
It wouldn't be Christmas without a wreath or two. When your front exterior space is limited, you can still show off your festive side with a pretty wreath. This one has simple Scandinavian charm, with a center star made from pinecones.
Sliced orange pieces make for an interesting addition to the classic wreath while adding a pop of citrus color to brighten dull wintry days.
The owners of this pale yellow house chose an embellished silver wreath to offset their cobalt blue front door. They continued the theme indoors by adding silver decorations on the inside of their front window.
This brick facade also went for silver, with hanging star pendants and a contemporary silver plant on the windowsill.
The residents of these two homes are keeping their holiday decor to a minimum, with understated wreaths to greet visitors and passersby.
White ornaments and trimmings adorn the front window of this downtown dwelling.
I like to think these homeowners huddle together on their pretty front bench to enjoy their handiwork, mugs of hot chocolate in hand.
I like to think these homeowners huddle together on their pretty front bench to enjoy their handiwork, mugs of hot chocolate in hand.
If you live on the first floor above ground level, as these homeowners do, you are likely to have limited options for decorating your home's exterior. Perhaps a few understated star ornaments on one of the windows are all that's needed.
These homeowners made the most of their small front window by dressing it from top to toe in quirky silver decorations. A suspended branch embellished with white pom-poms and birds joins a mini Christmas tree and snowmen for a cheerful display.
Tell us: How do you add cheer to your front door or window? Share a photo below!
Tell us: How do you add cheer to your front door or window? Share a photo below!