Geometric shapes bring an unexpected twist to the usual holiday characters and glitter, whether it’s a whimsical creature or a conical Christmas tree.

1. Wood Block

All the craft with none of the kitsch, these super-simple Aztec wooden cone trees ($8) have a graphic, geometric andnon-figurative quality that’s subtle yet statement-making. homesense.ca

2. Statement Maker

Jonathan Adler’s Canaan menorah (from $245) is mod and monolithic, made from solid black and white marble. Sculptural and monumental enough to stand alone, its simplicity is oh-so-sophisticated. jonathanadler.com

3. Winter White

Top your holiday table with some wintry wonder, like these faceted, ice-crystal-like Vinter block candles ($9 for set of 3) that are part of Ikea’s winter collection. ikea.ca

4. Pretty Piece

These glass ornaments (from $15) from the Cross Decor and Design look vintage but have a quirkiness and free-form spirit that’s made for modern sensibilities—whether it’s the surprising squiggle of an octopus or the bulbous beauty of a whale. thecrossdesign.com 

5. Hang Bright

From purveyor of Scandinavian charm Ferm Living, these golden ornaments ($24 for set of 3) adorn a Christmas tree or simple set of branches with a minimalist form and a very modern hit of gold. vancouverspecial.ca

6. Creature Comfort

Modernist artist and conservationist Charley Harper interpreted wildlife and nature as a fun mix of shapes, colours and geometric patterns. These vivid, stylized creations (from a rotund raccoon to a bright-red cardinal) are now found on Fishs Eddy dinnerware for West Elm (from $12). westelm.com

Designer’s Pick by Vikki Wiercinski

“The holidays make me think of bringing nature inside. We bring evergreens inside to decorate, we light candles and we enjoy warmly lit evenings indoors—it’s that Danish concept of hygge! I love to put my favourite Klippan blanket ($329) front and centre.” klippan.ca

Barb Sligl

Barb Sligl