Sanctuary During The Holidays

During the holiday season, our homes come alive in a special way, brimming not just with festive decor and gifts but also with the laughter of friends and family. For many of us who celebrate, the home becomes the heart of the season, a backdrop for cherished rituals that bring us into the spirit of the holidays.

I’ve always been drawn to the idea of seasonal rituals—those intentional acts that prepare both my home and myself for the celebrations ahead. Whether it’s unboxing ornaments, decorating the tree, simmering a stovetop potpourri, or simply bringing out my coziest winter pajamas, these small traditions are my way of honoring the season and making my home feel uniquely special.

In a previous post, The Artisan’s Loving Touch, I reflected on how handmade objects bring warmth and soul into our spaces. Similarly, when we lovingly prepare our homes, they resonate with positive energy that lingers long after the holiday decorations have been tucked away. The rituals we hold dear during this time of year infuse our surroundings with meaning, creating a sanctuary that nourishes us and our loved ones.

Holiday traditions, often passed down through generations, hold a unique kind of magic. And when we thoughtfully consider how our spaces can support these practices, their impact is magnified. Take, for example, my beloved stovetop potpourri. In a family of passionate cooks, the stovetop is prime real estate during Christmas, so an extra burner has become a small but essential addition. It’s a simple adjustment that allows me to enjoy my holiday traditions without disrupting the flow of family cooking—a win for everyone.

This is, to me, the essence of creating sanctuary during the holidays: amplifying the joy in our lives and smoothing out the inevitable rough edges. It’s about making the things we already do feel more seamless and intentional, so the holiday spirit is easy to hold onto amidst the bustle.

As a designer, I see it as my role to help our clients create spaces that support their own seasonal rituals, no matter where they live. Here in Florida, for instance, temperatures rarely drop below 50 degrees, yet many of our clients still want fireplaces. They long for the nostalgia of gathering around a cozy fire—even if it’s Christmas at the beach. We also design hidden butler’s pantries to provide privacy for preparing meals for large gatherings, while keeping the main kitchen free for conversation and connection. We plan light-filled nooks perfect for a Christmas tree, create expansive sofas ideal for opening gifts, and design bunk rooms for visiting grandchildren. These thoughtful touches allow our clients to carry on their cherished traditions with ease.

So, I’d love to hear from you—what are your holiday rituals? Are there traditions you feel could be elevated by reimagining the flow or organization of your home? Or perhaps, like me, you’re considering a hot plate to keep your stovetop free for more culinary magic. Let me know how your home becomes your sanctuary during this special time of year.

With love and gratitude,

Lisa