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This year, the holidays look different and that means you may not get to show off the inside of your home like usual. So, why not go all out on the outside? Instagram has plenty of ideas for decorating your front door and those parts of your exterior you might overlook, like the garage. There are festive vignettes and wreaths galore. Some looks are more understated and classic, others are over the top, but they all bring the holiday cheer and are sure to make your house the talk of the block.
For more year-round inspiration, check out the prettiest front doors around the world.
O Holy Staircase
Artist Josh Yöung gave his Washington D.C. brownstone the silent night treatment with a staggering array of Nest candles. Notice how he plays with light—the soft glow of the votives and wrapped garlands are juxtaposed with a spotlight on the doors, decked out in wreaths. Get the look for less by using flameless candles in varying sizes and angling your porch light just right.
Word Play
Wreaths are often the go-to for dressing windows. This home switches it up, but still keeps things organic. To give the illusion that the letters are floating, hang them with clear fishing line. Have something more to say? Grab papier-mâché letters from the craft store and spell out a larger message.
Spin The Dreidel
We love the mix of metallics and a big blue bow. And even though this wreath looks intricate, you can totally make it yourself.
Pop of Red
This modern farmhouse is a master class in how to make a statement by simply reimagining your existing decor. They jazzed up Adirondack chairs and a bold front door with smaller seasonal touches like the buffalo check pillows, a pine wreath and a pair of rainboots stuffed with leftover branches. It’s a look that can last well into the new year.
Go Big
These oversized bulb lights and the even bigger bow are giving us major ’90s vibes in the best way. It's a reminder to not be afraid to play with proportion.
Cup of Cheer
Why not add a hot cocoa station outside your door? Whether it’s for a socially-distant hang with friends, a fun way to welcome a loved one home after a long day or simply a treat for your postal worker (they deserve it!), this setup is sure to make everyone smile. Dress up a bar cart with garland, a felt letter board and themed mugs.
Merry Mantra
Even if you feel anything but calm, a mantra like this one can be a wonderful reminder to stop and soak up everything the season has to offer. Consider the lyrics from a favorite carol or holiday greeting (The owner of this home picked a line from “Silent Night” because it reminded her of special childhood memories.)
A Sweet Greeting
If you love to bake (or eat) cookies, this is the front porch for you. Ashley Rose, the blogger behind Sugar & Cloth used these oversized cookie cutters from At Home to create the scene. We also love this colorful display she made with bottlebrush trees and gold nutcrackers.
Dreaming of a Green Christmas
Last, but certainly not least, if you want a day-to-night look, you can’t go wrong with greenery and a few perfectly placed lanterns (swipe for the evening effect). Mix greens with white flowers as seen here or pick up a few fragrant rosemary plants for an equally charming look.