Winter Garden
Stepping through the front doors at Nell Hill’s this time of year feels like walking into a winter garden that’s fresh, festive, and full of color. This look greets you right as you enter the shop, where boxwoods, lush garlands, and cheerful swags fill the space with a classic-meets-chinoiserie charm. Pops of blue and yellow ribbons mingle with red berries and glossy ornaments, creating a palette that’s both timeless and unexpected. It’s a perfect garden that’s come to life for the holidays.
A stately stag figure welcomes guests as they arrive, holding a tray that’s just as perfect for party hors d’oeuvres as it is for keeping your keys at home. Just beyond, a grand display ties the look together stacked with ginger jars in shades of blue and green, lush boxwoods, and festive trees overflowing with character. Look closely and you’ll spot the charming details that make this look so special: mini ginger jars, gold birdcages, red cardinals, amaryllis bulbs, basket ornaments, and delicate chinoiserie-inspired pieces tucked among the greenery. Its equal parts refined, charming, and playful, and it absolutely lives up to its name.
In the heart of the space, a dining table perfectly captures the “Winter Garden” spirit. Cane-backed chairs surround a table layered with thoughtful, festive touches from boxwoods and holly to chinoiserie candlesticks and a grand ginger jar centerpiece. Green-washed plates pair beautifully with folk-inspired floral patterns, topped with tiny Christmas tree place card holders that bring an extra touch of charm. Look closer, and you’ll find gold deer figures, a village of little light-up houses that call to mind a cozy European street, and even a cookie jar designed to look like a Christmas tree.
Throughout the space, baskets brimming with ornaments and greenery add to the layered, lived-in feel that Nell Hill’s is known for. One of our favorite details? A boxwood Christmas tree that ties the whole look together – it’s fresh, natural, and effortlessly festive. The space also features equally charming coordinating boxwood garland, perfect for tucking onto a mantel and more.
As the season moves along, pieces from each space come and go. These photos were taken when the shop was especially full of Christmas treasures and many items have already found their way into our customers’ homes. The good news? The inspiration (and plenty of beautiful new arrivals) are always here, ready to spark your own version of a Winter Garden at home. Give us a ring if you’re curious about something in particular!
As we’ve been decking every corner of the shop for the season, we’ve also had the joy of taking some of that holiday magic beyond our walls. This year, we were invited to help the Westport Historical Society bring Christmas décor to the 1855 Harris-Kearney House Museum - Kansas City’s oldest two-story brick residence - layering classic holiday elements throughout its Greek Revival rooms. If you’re looking for a little historic charm this season, you can tour the home on Saturdays and Sundays from 1-4pm through December 14, or by appointment. Details, and Tickets are available to purchase here. It’s a beautiful way to see how timeless décor can feel both historic and new.
Please note upcoming special store hours:
Thanksgiving Day: CLOSED
Christmas Eve: CLOSED
Christmas Day: CLOSED
New Year's Eve: 10am-3pm
New Year's Day: CLOSED
