​

We are guessing Lucy Feagins of The Design Files hasn't had much time to think about Christmas yet; she's been organising the 3rd annual TDF Open House, including a first-time stint in Sydney. Visit to see furniture, homewares and art from over 70 Australian suppliers, all put together by Lucy in a real home. Read on for her Christmas style advice, along with a sneak peek at the upcoming Open Houses.

My Christmas style is pretty understated; where I lack in Christmas decorating I make up for with my gift wrapping skills!

This year I'll be buying The Fortynine Studio's watercolour ceramic plates paired with Country Road's timber dias dining range both of which will be available at TDF OH, because everyone should own some nice tableware for sharing a meal over the holiday period.


The Design Files Open House Melbourne 2013, photo by Eve Wilson

My failsafe Christmas styling tip is a real Christmas tree is a necessity in my own household, nothing says Christmas more than the smell of fresh pine.  I'm quite minimal and neutral with the decorations. Christmas lights are always white - they look so pretty peeking through the pine needles.  Much easier on the eye than their flashing multi-coloured counterparts!


The Design Files Open House 2013 Sydney, photo by Sean Fennessy.

On Christmas day I keep my sanity by knowing that I ordered the Christmas ham from my local Italian delicatessen months in advance.  It's the easiest way to feed a fussy crowd - needs no cooking and is loved by oldies and kids alike.

All I want for Christmas is the new range by Chinti and Parker, I am obsessed with their cashmere jumpers.

This Christmas I'll be serving my fail proof pavlova, piled high with berries.

The Design Files Open House will be held from 21st - 24th November in Hawthorn, Melbourne and from 5th - 8th December in Surry Hills, Sydney. For more information visit www.thedesignfilesopenhouse.com. Follow Lucy on Instagram @thedesignfiles for behind the scenes updates.