Put the Tape Measure Down, it’s December
If you’re reading this, chances are you’re in charge of something—at home, at work, or in the general circus of daily life. And in this Season of Intense Merrymaking, when time and energy are in short supply, I’m going to get right to it: do not add home décor to your to-do list this month. Truly. Don’t.
Yes, it’s the season of celebration, twinkle lights, candles, and cheer… but in the world of home design, December is actually prime time for observation. This is not the month to overhaul your living room. It is the month to pay attention to how your home is working for you.
If you completed a home project this year, your only assignment is to sit back and enjoy it. That’s it. Bask. Glow. Soak it in like the star of your own HGTV reveal moment. We love this for you and offer a collective high-five—especially if the results matched the vision you had in your head. And if you’re in the thick of a renovation, then by all means, go forth and soldier on. Gotta get it done!
But if you’re thinking about tackling a project in the new year, December is an excellent time to take notes; you’re likely spending more time inside, whether you’re hiding from festivities or hosting them. This is your moment to quietly study your space.
When you’re queuing up your fifteenth Hallmark movie, look around. Is there a comfortable spot to kick up your feet? Somewhere to set your bevvie of choice without risking a disaster-worthy spill? How’s the lighting—layered and moody or strictly overhead interrogation style?
And if you’re entertaining, watch how your guests move through the house. Do they immediately huddle in one area? Is there an obvious drop spot for coats, shoes, or bags—or is everything slowly forming a small mountain by the front door? Do you have enough seating, or is someone always balancing on the arm of a chair, pretending it’s totally fine?
Lately, I’ve been hearing from a few clients that their homes don’t make them feel good, which frankly breaks my design-loving heart. The usual culprits are wonky furniture layouts, meh paint colors, and a general lack of personality. But here’s the hopeful part: once you start paying attention—truly noticing—those amorphous “somethings” that aren’t working suddenly become identifiable… and fixable.
So use this month differently. Let December show you what’s working, what’s not, and what could shine a little brighter in the coming year. No pressure, no projects—just gentle observation. When the holidays fade and the glitter settles, you’ll already have a clearer sense of what’s working in your home and what isn’t. That’s the little upside of this month: just by living in your space a little more closely, you start to notice things. Maybe a lamp is missing, maybe the entry needs a better plan, or maybe a room you’ve ignored is ready for its moment.
Whatever you discover, you’ll head into the new year with a sharper understanding of what could make your home feel better. What a great place to begin!
Happiest of holidays to you and yours– all the best for a safe and healthy 2026 xo Jodi