There’s no denying it. Nothing beats a real Christmas tree. The smell of pine needles, the hours spent trying to find the perfect specimen, arguing over whether or not you’ve put it up straight... it’s all part and parcel of the season’s rituals. But let’s be realistic, just for a sec. Our tiny urban homes can barely cope with a two-seater sofa, let alone a six-footer obscuring the TV (you know how annoying that was last year). So maybe a real tree isn’t on the cards this time – but it’s okay, you needn’t miss out on the sparkles, fairy lights and chocolate decorations. These space-saving alternatives offer every opportunity to show off your creativity (and taste in baubles).
Look on the plus side: you'll be forgoing the aftermath of finding pine needles between your toes for the next six months. And you can use them year after year, if you so wish. These really are the gifts that keep on giving.
You knew you didn’t have space to host a Norwegian Spruce when you went crazy in Selfridges’ Christmas department, yet that didn’t stop you from buying ALL the baubles. The good news is you can still deck your halls with an alternative tree. String together branches and drape with lights and all the trimmings. This ready-made option is great for the DIY-averse.
Cox & Cox Frosted Branches Hanging Tree, £40, available at Cox & Cox
Photo: Courtesy of Cox & Cox.
Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without a bit of cutting and sticking, and a homemade tree captures the spirit of the season rather nicely. This tissue-paper confection is a little labour-intensive – make an evening of it with Home Alone and a few glasses of mulled wine. Only a few, mind.
Photo: Courtesy of Brittni Mehlhoff/Curbly.
Is there ever an occasion where Washi tape doesn’t look cool? We think not. The old faithful comes into its own during the festive season – once you've finished wrapping gifts, why not make your own Christmas tree wall? Embellish with your favourite baubles and cards. Now everyone will know precisely where to stack your presents for the big day.
Photo: Courtesy of One Hand In My Pocket.
Tinsel lovers, look away now – this alternative tree solution is as streamlined as it gets. For an understated look, a photographic wall hanging will instil a festive feel without dominating your living room. Get a photo blown up at a printers – go black and white or full colour – and hang with tacks or string. Ta dah! You can even pin your decs to it if you’re really missing the glitter. After twelfth night, roll it up and stash in a cupboard until next year.
Photo: Courtesy of Almost Makes Perfect.
Who says a Christmas tree has to be a six-footer? A few branches arranged in a vase look just as festive as a floor-to-ceiling pine. Beg some offcuts from your local tree seller or, if you’re lucky enough to live near a forest, spend an afternoon foraging. While you're there, keep an eye out for holly, ivy and mistletoe, too.
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