How to Decorate your NYC Apartment for the Holidays (Small Apartment Decorating)

How to Decorate your NYC Apartment for the Holidays (Small Apartment Decor)

Our Pinterest boards are full of small space holiday decorating and hosting inspiration. 

We’ve just returned from a magical trip to Paris, and the French have a way of decorating for the holidays that is refined and understated. Think: delicate twinkling lights, a few simple sprigs of greenery, and candles casting the softest glow. There’s no over-the-top extravagance—just a quiet, elegant holiday spirit. This inspired me to think about how we can bring that same élégance into our small NYC apartments. After all, who says you can’t make your tiny space feel festive and chic? Here are five tips to help you transform your apartment for a cozy and stylish holiday season. 

In a small space, you need to use your walls and ceilings to display festive touches to avoid overcrowding your floors. Wall-mounted shelves, hooks, or even a string of lights running along the top of your walls can make a huge difference. You don’t need a giant tree to feel festive—try hanging a small garland from the ceiling or placing a delicate wreath on the door. Even a row of red taper candles can bring just the right touch of light without overwhelming your space.

Nothing says Noël like fresh greenery. Whether it’s pine, eucalyptus, or holly, bringing a bit of greenery into your space gives it that authentic holiday feel. The holidays are the perfect time to bring fresh greenery into your space even if you don’t get much sunlight, and since pine garlands are so fresh smelling, they really help your small space feel more lively without cluttering. A sprig of rosemary, a few pinecones, or dried orange slices can add a festive touch to your faux arrangements—and it’s très chic.

In a small space, too many lights can quickly turn a cozy apartment into a cluttered mess. The key is subtlety. Drape a string of fairy lights along a window frame, wrap them around a slim plant, or place them in a glass jar as a soft glow. Keep it simple and refined—you want the lights to feel ambiance, not a Christmas explosion. Remember, less is more. A single line of delicate lights can create the perfect atmosphère.

There are plenty of clever, space saving alternatives to a 10 ft christmas tree that you have to lug on the subway. A mini tabletop tree is small, compact, and doesn’t take up precious floor space. Alternatively, get creative with a DIY project—maybe a bunch of winterberry branches in your vases, some ornaments in your coffee table bowl, or even a stack of vintage books adorned with a wreath on top. There’s no rule that says you have to stick to the traditional tree—just keep it elegant and minimalist. N’oubliez pas—this is your space, so make it feel festive in a way that suits you.

One of the simplest ways to refresh your apartment for the holidays is by swapping out your everyday linens for festive touches. We love a ski-inspired throw pillow like these, soft plaid blankets, or even switch out your shower curtain for a truly Ralph Lauren Home inspired look. Details like these don't take up any space at all but still create that festive, cozy vibe that makes your apartment feel extra special. It’s the little things that count!

Conclusion 

Decorating for the holidays in a small NYC apartment doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. By using vertical space, embracing simple greenery, and incorporating a few thoughtful détails, you can create an ambiance that’s both festive and chic. No need for over-the-top décor—just a few carefully chosen touches will do the trick. And who knows? Maybe you’ll channel a little Parisian holiday magic while you’re at it. Joyeux Noël to you and your beautifully decorated home!