Britons are spending an average of three hours decking their halls to ensure they’re ready for the festive season. And according to a recent study this is all down to the Christmas films that we love.
The research suggests that a third of people in Britain believe our most cherished holiday flicks have shaped and inspired how we decorate our houses for the holidays.
This survey was conducted by Latimer Homes, who’ve taken the yuletide spirit to new heights by decking out two of their show homes at Islington Wharf in Manchester and Cocoa Gardens in York with iconic Christmas movie memorabilia, turning them into real-life winter wonderlands.
Stephen Maskill, regional sales manager for the housing developer, professed: “Festive film settings don’t just inspire movie magic, they influence how we decorate and celebrate at home.”
He added: “We know how important it is for people to celebrate in their own way in their own space, and having a place to call your own might be easier than you think. We’d invite people to come visit us to find out more.”
Can you spot all 50 references to some of the most iconic Christmas movies in the image below?
When it comes to the nation’s decorating style 44% say their Christmas decorating technique is conventional, making use of time-honoured colours like red, green, gold, and silver.
Meanwhile, a modern touch has been embraced by 15%, opting for sleek, minimal decor with a contemporary colour palette, whereas 12% are taking the vintage route, adorning their homes with classic ornaments from bygone eras.
So which Christmas movie home do Brits love the most?
According to a poll of 2,000 cinema buffs, it’s the McCallister’s home, from the celebrated Home Alone franchise, that was named as the UK’s favourite Christmas movie home, taking the top spot as the place Brits would most like to spend the festive period.
The quaint English cottage that served as Kate Winslet’s Iris’ home in the 2006 favourite The Holiday secured second place, while Jamie’s scenic lakeside French villa in Love Actually took third place.
Stephen Maskill said: “The McCallister home has become a symbol of Christmas for movie fans everywhere.
“It’s cosy charm, twinkling lights, and festive chaos perfectly capture the magic of the holiday season. It’s also a key inspiration for reimagining our show homes, incorporating trinkets and nods to beloved festive film classics.”
TOP 10 CHRISTMAS FILM FAMILY HOMES:
- The McCallister’s home (Home Alone).
- The Cottage (The Holiday).
- Jamie’s French Villa (Love Actually).
- The White family home (White Christmas).
- The Bailey family house (It’s a Wonderful Life).
- The Griswold family house (National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation).
- Buddy’s New York apartment (Elf).
- The Kringle family home (The Santa Clause).
- The Beale family residence (Miracle on 34th Street).
- The Horton family abode (How the Grinch Stole Christmas).