Beyond the tree: Filipino living rooms shine in holiday décor
A chic and elegant take with its white sofa contrast to the red pillows and the bright christmas tree, from the Homes of Zee, home of Marguerite Lhuillier.
When “ber” months arrive, Filipino households seem to switch into holiday mode overnight. The Christmas tree is often the first to appear — carefully assembled, fluffed and dressed in lights and ornaments collected over the years.
WOODSY vibes for this home situated in Maria Luisa Park in Cebu with all the earthy tones from the pillows to the carpet and ornamets.
But beyond that iconic symbol, it’s the sala that transforms into the most festive and visually expressive space in a Filipino home. This change isn’t just about décor; it reflects tradition, memory, and the uniquely warm spirit of a Paskong Pinoy.
As December approaches, living rooms slowly shift from everyday simplicity to cheerful holiday charm. Families begin by swapping out regular sofa covers for richer fabrics — think reds, greens, deep blues, or the increasingly popular gold-and-white combinations.
These textures instantly change the room’s tone, creating a warm backdrop for gatherings. Throw pillows join the holiday makeover, often featuring playful prints of snowmen, Christmas trees, Santa Claus, reindeer, and even witty Filipino Christmas phrases.
RUSTIC and wooden vibe with the addition of green and white pillow covers, Santa Clauses and parols, from the Homes of Zee, home of Christine Pelaez.
Photograph by christine pelaez
Some households follow a theme inspired by their tree, creating a cohesive color story that ties the entire space together.
Beyond textiles, many Filipinos elevate their sala with small but meaningful touches. Fairy lights are draped along curtain rods, cabinets, or open shelves, giving the room a soft, magical glow.
Garlands made of pine or faux foliage adorn TV consoles or stair railings. Candles scented with cinnamon, vanilla, or pine add another layer of holiday ambiance. Some families bring out heirloom ornaments passed down from parents or grandparents, making the space feel not only festive but deeply sentimental.
What makes the Filipino sala special during Christmas is how it becomes the center of family life. It’s where gifts quietly pile up as the days lead to Noche Buena. It’s where relatives gather to chat, laugh, and catch up before the big midnight feast.
On Christmas Eve, the sala transforms once more — becoming the backdrop for countless family photos, the venue for gift-opening rituals, and the cozy corner where children eagerly await midnight.
In the end, the sala’s transformation is more than decorative. It captures the essence of Filipino holiday traditions: warmth, togetherness, and the joy of creating a space where memories — both old and new — can thrive. For many families, the moment the living room lights up with Christmas décor is when the season truly begins.