Dressed-up DINING ROOMS

Make it chic but simple, with muted colours and natural materials that bring a laid-back festive vibe

-  LISA FAZZANI

Create... a relaxed look

* KEEP COLOURS CALM If bolds and brights aren't your style, take a low-key approach with soft, soothing shades that are easy on the eye. Dusky pastels and earthy naturals blend easily in a neutral dining room scheme, whether layered up in table linens or dotted around on festive baubles and decorations.

* DITCH THE GLITZ Forget tinsel and sparkle - make your scheme shine by going big with greenery and natural details. Line tables and mantels with garlands of foliage or pile platters with pine cones, berries and seasonal fruit.

* TAKE IT EASY Avoid overly fussy table decorations and ornate place settings in a relaxed festive scheme like this. Opt for simple centrepieces that are easy to put together, whether a vaseful of foliage, a wooden board clustered with chunky candles or a tiered cake stand filled with treats.

* MIX AND MATCH A less formal look takes some of the pressure off. Cut costs by dressing up key basics that you already have. Team a plain table runner with jolly paper crackers or jazz up paper napkins with coloured ribbon.

Create...festive family fun

Go bold, joyful and bright for a playful party scheme that will appeal to both young and old

* JOLLY THINGS UP Put family at the heart of the festivities with a fun look that's super-cheerful and bright. Vibrant colours are key, from jolly dinnerware and novelty crackers to rainbow baubles and multicoloured table decorations.

* OPT FOR UNBREAKABLES Avoid heavy glassware or delicate items that are easily broken and don't be too precious about what goes where. Colourful candy canes and Christmas decorations make fun place settings or line up paper trees and wooden houses as a quick and easy table centrepiece.