White House Decorations: A Look Back at 2016: 1 Minute to Discover the Stunning Decor Choices of 2016

The White House has long been an iconic canvas for festive transformation during the holiday season, but the 2016 decorations stood out as a masterclass in blending tradition with contemporary flair. That year, First Lady Michelle Obama’s final Christmas in office was an opportunity for the team—led by White House Chief Floral Designer Hedieh Ghaffarian—to showcase both the nation’s heritage and the warm spirit of the First Family. The official theme, “The Gift of the Holidays,” focused on recognizing acts of kindness, service, and unity. Every room, from the Grand Foyer to the historic Blue Room, became a tribute to these values, layered with shimmering ornaments, carefully chosen color palettes, and handcrafted garlands.

Highlights included a 19-foot Douglas fir gracing the Blue Room, decked with themed ornaments inspired by children’s art from military families across the country. The Grand Foyer and Cross Hall sparkled with golden ribbons and metallic accents, complementing the historic architectural features. Volunteers spent weeks installing hand-cut snowflakes, wreaths, and approximately 70,000 ornaments, while the East Wing’s Gold Star Tree paid poignant tribute to fallen American service members. The White House decorations in 2016 were memorable for their balance—nodding to time-honored customs but adapting spaces to feel intimate and inviting, like the Obamas’ approach to hospitality.

As a designer, what stands out to me is how these installations respected the existing space—working with scale, color temperature, and layering to create visual harmony without overwhelming the rich details of the White House’s interiors. For homeowners looking to channel a similar effect, consider how the harmony of history and innovation was achieved: embrace personalized touches (like the military family ornaments), keep larger surfaces unified in tone, and use layering techniques with light and fabric. Looking to experiment with your own holiday transformation? Professional planning tools can help you visualize and execute an interior scheme as cohesive and impactful as the White House’s historic display—see how a thoughtfully-designed interior can elevate any space for seasonal or everyday décor.

Tips 1:

If you want to channel the grandeur of a White House-inspired holiday at home, focus on scale and repetition—think coordinated garlands, clusters of ornaments, and a unifying color palette. Layer textures to keep your décor interesting but not overwhelming, and don’t overlook areas like entryways or hallways, which can set the festive tone before guests even reach your main living spaces.

FAQ

Q: What was the main theme of the 2016 White House holiday decorations?

A: The theme was “The Gift of the Holidays,” emphasizing kindness, service, and unity.

Q: Who designed the 2016 White House decorations?

A: Hedieh Ghaffarian, the White House Chief Floral Designer, led the décor team along with countless volunteers.

Q: How was the military honored in the 2016 decorations?

A: Ornaments in the Blue Room were inspired by military children’s art, and the Gold Star Tree honored fallen service members.

Q: How many ornaments were used in the 2016 White House decorations?

A: Approximately 70,000 ornaments adorned the White House in 2016.

Q: How can I bring White House-style holiday décor into my own home?

A: Use unified color schemes, personalized touches, and consider the architecture of your space when planning decorations—design tools can help you visualize and organize these elements effectively.