Christmas decorations often reflect the cultural zeitgeist, and this year, real estate has become a significant part of the festivities. Alongside traditional stars and angels, gingerbread houses and porcelain candle covers shaped like houses have gained popularity in the UK.
Gingerbread houses have their origins in 19th-century Germany, and their significance has evolved over time. The importance of shelter and having a place to call home has become a potent Christmas symbol, especially when many people are displaced.
Advent Calendars as Buildings
This year, many advent calendars are decorated as buildings and houses. Country-house hotel The Newt has launched its first advent calendar, shaped like its Somerset home. The calendar contains items such as an estate print tea towel and 12-months’ Newt Garden membership.
Melt Chocolates offers a range of properties for Christmas, including a log cabin inspired by Ralph Lauren’s Colorado lodge and a winter palace design celebrating London architecture. These calendars are filled with handmade chocolates.
Unique Advent Calendar Designs
Design company Westwing’s advent calendar looks like a red brick apartment building and is filled with small gifts from brands like Aesop and Ferm Living. For a different type of building, the illustrated windmill calendar houses 24 sweet treats from the Provence region in France.
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Newby Teas offers a beautiful pagoda advent calendar, while Daylesford has a kennel advent calendar for dogs, complete with treats like a Christmas bandana and roast beef biscuits. Stationery company Papier has a selection of advent calendars based on luxury pens and paper products.
Skincare brand Augustinus Bader’s grand advent calendar is inspired by the architecture of its Paris flagship store. Chocolate brand Charbonnel et Walker’s ‘Bond Street’ design is based on its store in the Royal Arcade in Mayfair and features curved bay windows and a saddled glass roof.
A Lasting Keepsake
These advent calendars are not only beautifully designed and well-made but also created to be kept and treasured for years to come. They serve as reminders that at Christmas, home is where the heart is.
As the holiday season approaches, these unique advent calendars offer a fun and festive way to count down to Christmas. With detailed designs and special treats, they are sure to become a beloved part of many families’ holiday traditions, making the holiday season even more special.
