“Watch your step!” isn’t the most typical holiday greeting, but at this house – home to Sandra and Brandon Raines and their two young daughters, Olivia and Sienna – the phrase has become synonymous with Christmas. “It all began two years ago, with this idea of using natural and handmade elements to celebrate the holidays,” says Angela Robinson, the designer who decorated the home in collaboration with her colleague, Jamie Deck. “Instead of a tree skirt, we use beautiful glossy chestnuts and walnuts to surround the trunk of the Christmas tree. It looks great, but we never quite remember what happens,” she says.

Meaningful seal
“Personalize your holiday in any way you can,” says Angela of the wax seal that was used for homeowners Sandra and Brandon Raines’ wedding invitations – now used to seal gift tags and embellish Christmas card envelopes.
Advent calendar
In the den, Angela created an Advent calendar out of tree branches and handmade moss nests. Inside the nests are almonds dipped in a colourful candy coating.
The Raines family
The Raines clan – Sandra, Brandon, Sienna and Olivia – wait patiently for  the holidays.
Dressed up kitchen
Carrara marble countertops, a mosaic tile backsplash and white panelled cabinetry give the kitchen a soft, clean appearance. The island is where Olivia, Sienna and their Uncle Domenic decorate a gingerbread house on Christmas Eve.
Eccentric tree
The tree features lights made from battery-operated candles and clothespins. Angela embellished the star topper with vintage paper. Nuts from the family’s specialty food store surround the base.
Cozy living room
In the family room, the sectional covered in family- and pet-friendly polyvelvet is where all the action happens. “Brandon plays games with the girls, and the whole family watches movies here,” says Sandra.
A little rest
Holding a box of vintage ornaments, Angela takes a break alongside designer Jamie Deck, who collaborated with her on the home’s decor. The two are seated in the dining room, which, like the kitchen, opens to the family room.
Pretty wrapping
In a nod to the Raines family’s natural Christmas theme, gifts are wrapped in sheet music and embellished with vintage baubles.
Elegant bathtub
A claw-foot tub is illuminated by the flickering glow of floating tea lights set in a glass urn. Silk draperies and marble floors make this room a delightful  respite during the stressful holiday season. Fluffy white towels on a silver serving tray add a sophisticated note.