Decorate the Holiday Home with Earl of East

In their East London home, Earl of East founders Niko Dafkos and Paul Firmin bring their appreciation for creating atmosphere into the festive season. Known for adding mood, scent and materiality to spaces, they approach December with a focus on warmth and intention. The unfolding of the season happens slowly, carried by texture, candlelight and small rituals that anchor the feeling of winter.

They describe their approach to decorating as simple. As they put it, “Our Christmas decorating is quite low key and minimal. We keep the fundamentals of our home the same and layer in elements that speak to the season.” A few branches of conifer or olive, brass accents, bowls of citrus and cloves, and candlelight become their starting points. These choices feel nostalgic without being overwhelming and allow the home to shift gently into a festive mood.

Natural materials are the pillars on which they build the atmosphere. Wool, linen, felt, raw wood, stoneware and brushed metals all deepen the sense of tactility. The palette stays neutral and warm, with soft whites, deep reds and browns coming through in textiles and small details. “Everything we bring in has meaning,” they say, describing a home that grows more atmospheric through materials rather than through seasonal excess.

Rituals play an equally important role. Lighting the first Advent candle signals the beginning of the season. Traditions from Niko’s Greek and German childhood, like celebrating St. Nikolaus Day on the sixth of December, give their festive rituals a personal, familiar rhythm. To define and elevate these moments, they turn to scents. Notes of fir, cedarwood, woodsmoke and gentle spice mix naturally with chai simmering on the stove and the scent of oranges studded with cloves. These sensory layers build an atmosphere that feels personal and extends beyond trends.

Ferm Living pieces already in their home evolve with the season. Sculptural candleholders, ceramic bowls and understated trays become part of the festive expression once paired with winter greenery or groups of taper candles. As they describe it, “Pieces with simple shapes transition beautifully into Christmas. They let the seasonal touches feel natural and harmonious.” The space changes through subtle shifts rather than complete redecoration.

When Christmas passes, the atmosphere does not just disappear. The tree and garlands are taken down, but the soft lighting, warm textiles and grounded winter scents remain. This creates a sense of continuity that carries into January, making the home feel calm and comforting. “We keep the elements that made the season feel special,” they explain, choosing to let winter settle in gradually.

For Niko and Paul, decorating for the holidays is not about reinventing traditions; it is about rhythm, intention and atmosphere. Through thoughtful materials, gentle lighting, familiar scents and meaningful rituals, they create a festive home that feels lived in, personal and deeply connected to the slower months of the year.

Shop the Holiday Collection