Home for the Holidays: Mark D. Sikes

You may recognize this gorgeous home from the cover of the December 2011 issue of House Beautiful. Designed by Mark D. Sikes and his partner, Michael Griffin, this lovely West Hollywood home is the definition of “new traditional”. Beautifully layered with classic furnishings and warm accents, the look is completely chic without feeling “decorated”. The homeowners have both enjoyed successful careers in visual merchandising, which is evident in how perfectly styled their home is. Mark worked in visual merchandising and marketing for Banana Republic for 15 years. Afterward, he moved on to Pottery Barn where he worked for 3 years. Most recently, Mark worked in visual merchandising for Juicy Couture, but has recently made the transition into his own business. In addition to taking on interior design projects, Mark is in the process of starting a retail consulting firm and hopes to open a home décor store in the future. With his keen eye for style and undeniable talent, I know that Mark will be very successful in his new endeavors. Mark and I recently became pals through the magic of social media and today, he is sharing an exclusive look into his holiday decorating style with La Dolce Vita.

This year, Mark decided not to put up a Christmas tree. Let’s be honest—putting up a tree is a huge amount of work. I’m not sure what takes longer, setting it up or taking it down. Instead, Mark has opted for natural elements such as potted paperwhites, amaryllis, evergreen, bayleaf, eucalyptus, citrus and pears. His décor is very organic and lends itself perfectly to the existing décor in the home.

{A Lovely Vignette in Mark’s Living Room}

{A Cozy Corner in the Living Room}

{The gorgeous dining room, swathed in Gracie wallpaper is accessorized with Amaryllis and potted evergreens for the holidays.}

{The console table in the dining room is also dotted with festive potted plants.}

{The holiday spirit carries over into the inviting kitchen. Notice the wreath on the door and the pretty paperwhites and bowls of citrus on the island.}

 

What are your thoughts on a neutral, organic approach to holiday decorating? Is this something you would do in your own home?

For more of Mark’s style musings, check out his blog and follow him on Facebook and Twitter.

{Images Courtesy of Mark D. Sikes}