How to Make a Model Home Holiday-Ready

Decorating a model home for the holidays is a little different from decorating your own home. You’re not trying to show your personal style — you’re creating a mood. A feeling. The kind of warmth that makes buyers imagine morning coffee under soft lights, hosting their first holiday dinner, or watching snow fall from a window seat.

The trick is subtlety. A model home should feel timeless, elevated, and beautifully styled… without crossing into “someone lives here” territory. Here’s my go-to approach for creating that perfect balance, with curated pieces you can use (and shop) along the way.

Start With a Color Palette That Feels Intentional

Holiday décor doesn’t need to shout to make a statement. I always start by choosing a color palette that complements the finishes already in the home — soft whites, warm woods, gentle greenery. Think cozy chalet, not department-store display.

For a clean, cohesive look, I’d recommend using a neutral, realistic-looking artificial tree, coordinating ornament sets in whites, champagne, or soft metallics and a simple, elegant tree skirt to ground the look.

Create an Entryway Moment

The entryway is your opening scene — the first chance to make someone think “oh, this feels good.” A minimal wreath, a styled console, maybe a long textured hallway runner than makes the space feel grounded. Enough to greet buyers, not enough to distract them.

Layer Cozy Textures in the Living Room

Every buyer ends up lingering in the living room, so make it your coziest corner. I love adding a chunky throw across the arm of the sofa, a few seasonal pillow covers in neutral plaids or cable-knit textures, a garland that feels natural (not glittery… glitter has never sold a home), stockings on the fireplace mantle and maybe a wintery ceramic house or two, and make sure to have warm, soft lighting from a table or floor lamp.

Set a Dining Table That Whispers “Host Here”

A full tablescape can overwhelm a model home, but a thoughtful linen or woven runner, a little greenery laid down the center, and a cluster of taper candles in understated holders, and neutral dinnerware stacked lightly at each seat that gives the dining space just the right amount of holiday charm.

Give the Kitchen a Hint of Holiday

Kitchens sell homes — but clutter does not. I keep it simple: a seasonal tea towel on the stove, a cutting board leaning against the backsplash, maybe a mini table tree in the corner for a soft winter touch.

Add Soft Seasonal Layers in the Bedrooms

Even a small change can make a model-home bedroom feel like a boutique hotel in December. A winter throw at the foot of the bed, subtle plaid pillows, or a flameless candle can transform the space into something calm and luxurious.

Keep Exterior Touches Classy

Warm white string lights, a winter wreath, and a fresh doormat make the exterior feel welcoming without going full-Clark-Griswold. It’s all about balance.

The Secret: Festive, Not Personal

The golden rule for decorating a model home: keep it universal. Lean into winter-inspired décor rather than specific holiday references. Buyers from every background should feel welcome and comfortable in the space.

Minimal, polished, and thoughtfully layered décor helps people imagine their own celebrations — and that emotional connection is exactly what drives them to say, “This is the one.”