How to prepare your London office for holiday season?

A well-decorated office can transform the atmosphere instantly. But before buying boxes of ornaments, start with a clear, inclusive decoration policy.

Encourage your team to share ideas for décor that reflects the season without excluding anyone. Choose colours and symbols that feel festive but neutral – such as pine garlands, warm lighting, or snowflake motifs.

When planning your holiday setup, think about showroom design principles – every area should tell a visual story while maintaining balance and functionality (1). And companies can consider research for new office design trends before going on a decor shopping trip (2).

Reuse last year’s decorations wherever possible and take inventory before buying new supplies. This approach is both cost-effective and sustainable, aligning with many companies’ ESG goals. invite staff to contribute handmade or team-crafted decorations to promote engagement and add a personal touch.

Assign decoration zones to maintain balance:

• Reception – a welcoming first impression for visitors and clients.
• Collaboration areas – light, fun décor to energise creative spaces.
• Quiet zones – minimal touches like a single Christmas tree or wreath.

Lastly, don’t forget safety. Check cable management, fire regulations, and trip hazards before plugging in any lights. A festive workplace should feel inspiring, not risky.

In the digital age, a physical card still makes a meaningful impression. Whether you’re thanking clients, partners, or staff, a well-written Christmas card shows genuine appreciation.

Decide early on your message and format – a company-wide greeting that reflects your brand values, or personalised notes from leadership teams. Keep messages warm but professional: “Wishing you a successful new year” or “Thank you for being part of our journey.”

Cards can be distributed early in December to build excitement, or in the final week as a symbolic year-end gesture. If sustainability is part of your ethos, consider recycled paper or e-card alternatives.

A Secret Santa exchange adds energy to the office and encourages interaction across teams. Draw names around 1 December to give everyone time to shop, and set a spending limit to keep things fair and stress-free.

To maintain a professional tone, communicate a few guidelines: gifts should be inclusive, light-hearted, and office-appropriate. Avoid anything too personal or expensive.

For hybrid or remote teams, you can use online tools to draw names and even coordinate delivery. The key is to make participation simple and enjoyable, not compulsory.

The Christmas party is the highlight of the corporate calendar, but success depends on preparation. Decide your format and budget early – whether it’s a relaxed in-office social, an off-site dinner, or a series of smaller team gatherings.

Start with logistics:

• Date: aim for mid-December before most staff head on leave.
• Venue: choose a space with good transport access and flexibility.
• Catering: confirm dietary requirements early, including vegetarian, halal, or non-alcoholic options.
• Accessibility: ensure the route is step-free and facilities are inclusive.

If you’re hosting off-site, Fitzrovia offers a wealth of festive dining options within easy reach of Central London offices. See the best Christmas restaurants in Fitzrovia for ideas (3).

mall details – like themed table cards, a short thank-you speech from leadership, or a festive playlist – make the event memorable without overcomplicating it. Above all, keep the focus on appreciation, not excess. It’s about recognising the team’s effort over the year.

The holiday rush can be energising but also overwhelming. As the year wraps up, balance celebration with sensitivity to your team’s workload and wellbeing.

• Set realistic project deadlines in the weeks before Christmas.
• Encourage time off for those with remaining leave days.
• Communicate closures or reduced hours early to clients and suppliers.
• Check in on wellbeing – even short gestures like thank-you notes or flexible finish times can make a big impact.

A considerate approach reinforces your company culture and shows that festive spirit extends beyond décor and parties.

Reference list:

(1) Why showroom design matters?

(2) 10 office design trends that reshape London workplaces (2025 update)

(3) 10 best Christmas restaurants in Fitzrovia