The 2025 White House holiday decorations, themed "Home Is Where The Heart Is," have prompted mixed reactions from interior designers. Featuring greenery, traditional ribbons, warm lighting, and playful installations like a butterfly tree, the décor was described as "nostalgia-driven" and sentimental. Designers noted a departure from previous Trump administration displays, which were more theatrical, with Sara Parker saying this year's approach shows "restraint" and aims for "emotional warmth and memory-making."
© Andrea Hanks | White House
However, critics highlighted inconsistencies with the theme and tone. Annie Elliott described elements such as dominoes, blue butterflies, and a Lego portrait of the former president as unrelated, calling the overall design "confusing." Sarah Boardman argued that the inclusion of Trump portraits and the limited public engagement due to the East Wing demolition renders the décor "performative" and more about "political theatre" than holiday celebration.
The decorations also faced scrutiny for failing to foster communal participation, with past administrations incorporating children's art and interactive elements. While some praise the classic, storybook aesthetic, designers emphasised that the emphasis on curated imagery over public inclusivity diminishes the sense of shared national celebration.
Source: www.huffpost.com
