Where do you put a Christmas tree in a room?

Deciding where to place your Christmas tree is an important decision that can impact the aesthetics and functionality of your room during the holiday season. There are a few key factors to consider when determining the optimal location for your Christmas tree.

Consider the Room Layout

The layout and dimensions of your room should play a big role in choosing where to position the Christmas tree. Consider the following:

• The tree should not block or impede major pathways in the room. Ensure there is enough space for people to easily walk around it.
• Try to place it in a spot where it will be visible from many areas and angles of the room.
• Allow enough space for gifts to be placed underneath and around the tree without congesting the room.
• Take measurements to ensure your tree will fit in the space you intend without having to cram it in or block furniture.

Consider Relative Importance

The Christmas tree is often the focal point of a room during the holidays. Consider placing it in an area with prominence:

• Near the entrance to a room allows it to be one of the first things guests see.
• Place it where it aligns nicely when entering from adjoining rooms or hallways.
• Position it next to windows where it can be seen from outside.
• Avoid tucking it away in corners or indistinct areas.

Access to Electrical Outlets

Since the tree will require lights and may have other electrical decorations, placing it near an available outlet is advised:

• Check that cords can reach an outlet safely without creating tripping hazards.
• Use extension cords if needed, but take care not to overload the circuit.
• For live trees, keep a safe distance from heat sources like fireplaces or radiators.

Allow for Decorating Access

Make sure to allow room for easy access all around the tree for decorating:

• If the tree will be on a tree stand, leave space to securely fit and fasten the stand.
• Plan for a ladder or step stool if needed to reach high branches.
• There should be sufficient room to step back and visualize ornament placement.
• A cramped space will make for frustrating decorating sessions.

Stay Clear of High Traffic Areas

Whenever possible, avoid placing the Christmas tree in spots that regularly have people walking through or a lot of activity:

• Steer clear of main doorways and hallways that are used frequently.
• Avoid blocking the TV or fireplace since these attract activity.
• Consider whether furniture placement will direct traffic around rather than through the tree area.
• This will help prevent accidental collisions with the tree.

Use a Tree Skirt

Regardless of where the Christmas tree is situated, using a tree skirt can nicely finish off the area beneath the tree:

• A skirt neatly hides the stand and any unsightly trunk wrapping.
• It expands the festive decor to the floor area around the tree.
• Skirts come in a variety of colors, patterns, and fabrics to complement your decor.
• A waterproof tree skirt is useful for live trees which will shed needles and sap.

Watch for Ceiling Height

Check that the ceiling height of your chosen spot will accommodate the size of tree you want:

• Measure from the floor to ceiling to determine the maximum height.
• Review tree heights where you intend to purchase from.
• Look for a tree topper that will fit under the ceiling with a little extra room.
• For high ceilings, a larger tree can be stunning, but be sure it is stable and safe.

Nearby Seating Areas

Locating the Christmas tree near seating areas allows people to relax near the tree and enjoy its ambiance:

• Place next to couches or comfy armchairs where people tend to congregate.
• Position so the tree provides a cozy backdrop to the seating area.
• The light and beauty of the tree creates a heartwarming spot for lounging.
• Avoid blocking seats or walkways to seating with the tree.

Summary of Key Considerations

To recap, factors to weigh when deciding where to locate your Christmas tree include:

• Room layout and available space
• Visibility and prominence
• Access to electrical outlets
• Ability to decorate the tree
• High foot traffic areas
• Using a tree skirt
• Ceiling height
• Proximity to seating

Carefully thinking through these important issues will help you select the optimal Christmas tree spot to spread holiday cheer in your room!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most traditional place to put a Christmas tree?

The most traditional spot to place a Christmas tree is near the front window of a home so it can be seen from outside. This allows the tree to act as a festive beacon celebrating the meaning of Christmas to all who pass by.

Should I put my Christmas tree in the corner?

Putting a Christmas tree in the corner of a room is common because it often offers extra space for a tree without blocking other areas. However, consider visibility in the room and access to decorate. Avoid cramming a tree just to fit it into a corner.

What is the best angle for a Christmas tree in a room?

A 45-degree angle from a wall or corner is often recommended, as this provides sufficient space for gifts under the tree while also allowing it to be well-viewed from multiple spots in the room. But ultimately the angle can vary based on room shape and furniture layout.

Where should I put a Christmas tree with a fireplace?

If space allows, one classic option is placing the Christmas tree several feet to the side of the fireplace. This allows both to be focal points. Alternatively, locate the tree in an area aligned with the fireplace so they complement each other.

Should you put a Christmas tree near a window?

Placing a Christmas tree near windows allows the tree to be seen from outside and enables colored lights to create attractive displays. But be sure the location leaves enough space to walk around the tree and is not prone to cold drafts from the window.

Where should I put my Christmas tree in an apartment?

In an apartment with limited space, look for corner areas out of primary walkways, near windows for visibility, or next to seating arrangements to get the most impact from your Christmas tree. Also measure ceiling height to ensure it accommodates your tree size.

How close should furniture be to a Christmas tree?

Allow 1-2 feet between furniture pieces and a Christmas tree for comfortable passing room. The tree also tends to be safest if furniture is not immediately next to it on all sides. But having some furniture, like seating, in proximity can frame a lovely holiday scene.

Can you put a Christmas tree in front of a window?

It’s possible to put a Christmas tree directly in front of a window, especially if space is limited. Ensure cords are safe, the foundation is stable, and guests can still access and enjoy the view. An alternative is placing the tree to the side of the window rather than directly in front.

Should I put my Christmas tree in the living room or family room?

Most households place their main Christmas tree in whichever room tends to serve as the central gathering place for family activities. This allows it to be enjoyed by the most people. Often this is the living room, but it may be the family room depending on the home layout.

Is it OK to have 2 Christmas trees?

It is perfectly fine to have two Christmas trees or even more in your home! If space allows, multiple trees can provide beautiful holiday cheer in different rooms. Or consider pairing a large main tree with a smaller second tree to add extra flair.

Setting Up the Tree

After deciding on the ideal location, it’s time to set up and secure the Christmas tree:

• For artificial trees, assemble per the manufacturer’s instructions.
• For live trees, properly seat them in a heavy tree stand with water.
• Position the tree so it appears straight from all viewing angles.
• Securely tighten all parts of the tree stand to keep the tree stable.
• For added security, use fishing line to tie the tree to a nearby wall anchor point.

Decorating the Tree

The fun part – decorating the Christmas tree! Follow these tips for a beautifully adorned tree:

• Start by draping on tree lights evenly from top to bottom.
• Add garland and ribbon to frame the tree from different angles.
• Hang ornaments beginning with larger ones near the bottom.
• Work in symmetry and color patterns as you place ornaments.
• Finish off with a meaningful tree topper.

Christmas Tree Fun Facts

While planning where to locate your special Christmas tree this season, enjoy these fun facts about the tradition:

• Norway is credited with starting the Christmas tree tradition in the 9th century.
• Evergreens are used to represent life and hope during the dark winter.
• The tallest live Christmas tree was over 221 feet tall.
• Thomas Edison’s lights were first mass-produced for Christmas trees.
• It can take as long as 15 years to grow a tree tall enough to sell as a Christmas tree.

Enjoy the Magic

Christmas trees brighten up the holidays like nothing else. We hope these ideas help guide you to the perfect spot for showcasing your beautiful Christmas tree this season. Once it’s set up and sparkling with decorations, be sure to pause and enjoy the magical feeling it brings to your room!