A Decorator Saves Christmas

Although at first glance the overall look was low-key, Carter dropped several inventive elements into the mix. Two apothecary jars filled with frosted cranberry and gold balls—echoing the bronzed beige walls—flanked the dining-room mantel. Giant pinecones topped an antique cement birdbath centerpiece on the table. And instead of using just pine boughs for a garland over the living-room fireplace, Carter also used pinecones and magnolia leaves.