The holidays are coming fast… and so are the in-laws, friends, and that one guest who somehow always arrives early (you know who you are). Knock, knock! Stress is at the door.
Don’t worry—we’ve been doing this for 20 years. With a few smart upgrades and styling tricks, you’ll be ready to welcome the holiday cheer without the headache.
Ready to sleigh this season? Let’s go.
The Entryway
Clutter tends to pile up in the entryway, and it’s often the last thing we focus on. But it’s the first impression your guests get, so make it count.
Declutter, Declutter, Declutter
Decluttering isn’t glamorous, but it’s the quickest way to transform your entryway. Start by Marie Kondo-ing the visible areas, and don’t be afraid to carry that energy through the rest of the house. This approach helps you connect with your space and belongings, clearing clutter for good instead of just stashing it away.
TriVistaUSA Design + Build Entryway, Arlington, VA
Wicker bins will be your best friends here. They’re great for stashing the random stuff you don’t even want to be seeing. Dog toys, old magazines, and the kids’ tablet that was ‘lost’ all go inside with zero effort.
TriVistaUSA Design + Build Entryway, Arlington, VA
Fun Fact: Decluttering your space can reduce stress, boost productivity, and bring balance to your emotional well-being. Psychology Today notes, "Several studies show a correlation between disorganization, clutter, and mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and stress" (Psychology Today: The Many Mental Benefits of Decluttering).
The Kitchen
If the kitchen isn’t holiday-ready, you might as well cancel Thanksgiving now. This is where everyone tends to gather, and inevitably stand in the way of exactly what you’re trying to reach. If the chaos feels constant, your kitchen layout may be the culprit. But don’t worry—we’ve rounded up some smart tips that are not only holiday-approved, but year-round winners, too
Hidden Kitchen Cabinets For Smart Storage
Hidden storage is chef’s kiss… mwah! Stash away appliances like the blender, toaster, cords and that bread maker you swore you’d use every day. Clean countertops = more space of meal prepping and, most importantly, room for wine and charcuterie.
Take some inspiration from these Arlington kitchens we’ve remodeled with hidden storage in mind:
TriVistaUSA Design + Build Kitchen Remodel, Arlington, VA
TriVistaUSA Design + Build Kitchen Remodel, Arlington, VA
TriVistaUSA Design + Build Kitchen Remodel, Arlington, VA
TriVistaUSA Design + Build Kitchen Remodel, Arlington, VA
Use Kitchen Shelves For Practical Decorations
Once you’ve cleared off anything that screams “daily grind”, your kitchen shelves will be prime real estate for mini exhibitions. That’s where you flex all the kitchen items that look good. Open shelves and island displays are your chance to flaunt the kitchen essentials.
TriVistaUSA Design + Build Kitchen Remodel, Arlington, VA
TriVistaUSA Design + Build Kitchen Remodel, Arlington, VA
The Living Room
Setting the holiday tone in your living room starts with, well, the actual tone… Neutral wallpapers are the perfect backdrop for a cozy theme. Toss a plaid throw here, stack a chunky knit blanket there, and you’re already halfway to “curl up and stay awhile” vibes. Rich red or green pillows can also add splashes of color to bring out the depth of the space.
TriVistaUSA Design + Build Home Remodel, Arlington, VA
Or if you’re feeling bold you can go for a holiday inspired wallpaper that adds a whole bunch of texture to your space.
TriVistaUSA Design + Build Home Remodel, Washington, DC
Set The Soundtrack
A holiday soundtrack is like salt in your recipe, it ties everything together.
If classy and fun is the goal, you can’t go wrong with some Vince Guaraldi and maybe a little Ella Fitzgerald. Bonus points if it sparks some cheek to cheek dancing.
TriVistaUSA Design + Build Home Remodel, Arlington, VA
Cocktails + Cozy Fires = The Perfect Holiday Combo
When it comes to holiday entertaining, why not center the action around the fireplace? It’s the perfect spot for cozying up, and it sets the tone for all kinds of festive fun.
And here’s a pro tip: Set up a home bar by the fire! Nothing says holiday cheer like serving cocktails or mulled wine next to the glow of the hearth. We’ve got some seriously stylish setups to inspire you—think chic bar carts or elegant designs that complement the cozy vibes.
TriVistaUSA Design + Build Home Remodel, Arlington, VA
TriVistaUSA Design + Build Home Remodel, Arlington, VA
TriVistaUSA Design + Build Home Remodel, Arlington, VA
TriVistaUSA Design + Build Home Remodel, Arlington, VA
Bring The Lanterns Indoors
To really set the mood, bring those outdoor lanterns inside and place them around your fireplace setup. The soft, flickering light adds an extra layer of warmth and elegance, making your space feel like a cozy holiday retreat. Group a few lanterns in varying heights near the fire for a touch of rustic charm.
TriVistaUSA Design + Build Home Remodel, Arlington, VA
The Guest Room
If you’ve got people staying over, give them a guest room they’ll actually enjoy. (No one wants to crash on your old futon next to that pile of unopened Amazon boxes.)
Fresh linens and extra blankets are non-negotiables.
TriVistaUSA Design + Build Home Remodel, Fairfax VA
TriVistaUSA Design + Build Bathroom Remodel, Washington, DC
A small basket with toiletries, a few water bottles, and maybe even a single fresh flower in the powder room can also go a long way. They are the type of small gestures that make guests feel extra special and cut down on those “Where’s the…?” questions that make us all secretly scream inside.
TriVistaUSA Design + Build Butler's Pantry, Arlington, VA
TriVistaUSA Design + Build Bathroom Remodel, Arlington, VA
