There's something magical about the moment the Christmas tree goes up.
Maybe it's the light, the nostalgia, or the way your whole room looks like it can become a set for the next Hallmark movie.
But as much as there's beauty to behold with a Christmas tree, real or artificial, there are a few disadvantages that some people can't look over.
So, if you've spent the last few holidays wrestling a tree through the front door or vacuuming pine needles until the first snowdrops appeared, you might be thinking it's time for a change.
And with that, you get the Christmas tree alternative - a modern twist on a classic tradition. As more people embrace smaller spaces, unique aesthetics, and stress-free holiday decor, the non-traditional Christmas tree is settling right up the list as a beloved holiday upgrade.
It's still magical. It's still festive. It's just a little tidier.
Are you ready to try something new this year without losing the whimsy Christmas brings?
Read on for the best alternative Christmas tree ideas that will turn the ante up on your holiday decor this year.
What Is a Non-Traditional Christmas Tree?
A non-traditional Christmas tree is any festive setup that captures the spirit and mood of the holidays without using the classic tree we all grew up with.
Non-traditional Christmas trees can be artificial trees in different shapes (like the ones we're about to talk about), but they don't have to be trees or plants.
In fact, a few of the most unique alternative Christmas tree ideas are wall-mounted displays, ladder trees, branch bundles, hanging macramé, wire or metal sculptures, etc. These ideas are especially useful if you're short on square footage and need Christmas tree alternatives for small spaces that still look intentional.
When should you get an unconventional Christmas tree?
You should consider an unconventional Christmas tree as soon as the traditional one starts feeling impractical.
For many people, that happens when they move and the space is tighter, when schedules change and they get busier, or when the idea of dragging a full-size tree inside just isn't appealing anymore.
But you may not experience any of these before deciding to get a Christmas tree alternative. Instead, you might just be craving something fresh.
Maybe your decor style has changed, or you want a setup that reflects your personality more than the classic red-and-green.
In short: You should get an unconventional Christmas tree when the traditional setup feels more like a chore than an exciting change.
What Are the 3 Best Alternative Christmas Tree Ideas?
Now that we've covered the basics, let's talk ideas.
If you want a festive centerpiece that's still a tree, is low-maintenance, and perfect for modern living in large or small spaces, non-traditional artificial Christmas trees are the way to go.
By going down this route, you'll still have all the magic of the season while retaining your individuality.
Below, we've rounded up the 3 best Christmas tree alternative picks to try this year:
Premium Artificial Cypress Pine Tree
The Premium Artificial Cypress Pine Tree is the ultimate upgrade for anyone wanting a realistic, semi-traditional Christmas tree alternative.
Since it offers the familiar fullness of a classic Christmas tree, it's not a big leap if you want to change your setup up a bit without going all out. Its shape is close to what we're already used to, but it's significantly smaller and fuller than a traditional tree.
This artificial tree is perfect for decorating with lights and ornaments, so you can still use your existing holiday decor.
Why it works: It's a natural, elegant option for those who want a fresh look at the classic tree.
Premium Artificial Topiary Tree 2 Ball
If you're more into a sculptural, design-forward look and want to make sure your display is as eye-catching as it can be, check out our artificial 2-ball topiary tree. This is a unique product we consider one of the most alternative Christmas tree ideas.
It's minimalistic but striking, so it instantly becomes a focal point with just simple fairy lights or tinsel.
While it doesn't look like a traditional tree, it is similar to the shape of a snowman, don't you think? Its slim structure makes it a great choice for corners, hallways, and smaller homes.
Alternatively, since it's also UV-resistant, you can use it in pairs outside the front door to frame it and greet your guests.
Why it works: It's a unique shape that saves space and captures attention even from a distance.
Premium Artificial Bright Boxwood Buxus Tree
Last but not least, we suggest a bold, playful, and refreshingly green artificial Boxwood Buxus as your choice for a non-traditional artificial Christmas tree. This is a distinctive artificial tree that looks quirky without trying too hard.
It's got dense foliage and a tapered columnar shape, so it's easy to style with ribbons, mini decorations, or small Christmas lights. Hand-assembled with care, this faux tree combines high-quality, long-lasting materials with a sleek, contemporary design fit for various interior styles.
This alternative Christmas tree idea is perfect for those looking for a chic tree that's easy to style and completely hassle-free.
Why it works: It's out of the pine-tree box and can work well both indoors and outdoors without fading.
What to Look for In Non-Traditional Artificial Christmas Trees?
When choosing a non-traditional artificial Christmas tree, you shouldn't just look at aesthetics. If the products are well-done, they'll almost always be pretty to look at, but that's not what makes a faux tree a good alternative for Christmas.
Instead, you need to focus on features that ensure your artificial tree fits into your space and can fulfill your decor requirements without much effort.
We asked our expert team of stylists what they view as the most important considerations for a Christmas tree alternative. Here's what they said:
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Durability: Always choose an artificial tree made from high-quality, premium materials rather than cheap, shiny plastics. Good quality foliage retains its shape and fullness over years of use, which means it won't sag or deteriorate after a season. At Designer Plants, we use our proprietary UV-Tex technology to ensure your products look the same as the day you bought them, even 5 (or more) years down the line.
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UV resistance: If you place your faux tree near a window (which most of us do), or outdoors, you'll need UV protection to keep it safe. Most of our Designer Plants products have UV resistance embedded in the material for optimal protection, so your fauxliege will stay bright even after repeated exposure to sunlight.
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Sturdiness: A good Christmas tree alternative should have branches or a structure solid enough to hold the decor you want to adorn it with - lights, ornaments, or tinsel - without bending or drooping. Many cheaper artificial plants sacrifice sturdiness, but high-quality ones tend to use stronger internal frames. When using a faux tree as a base for decor, ask the supplier what it can comfortably hold so you can plan well.
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Versatility: The best non-traditional Christmas trees should work indoors and outdoors, while looking appropriate in many contexts (hallways, living rooms, patios, entryways). Since you're looking to steer away from the traditional, see how you can reuse your faux tree after the holidays are over so that you can have it as part of your regular decor throughout the year.
Finishing Thoughts
Let this holiday season be the start of a different approach to decorating.
Embrace a unique Christmas tree alternative that lets you celebrate in style while still maintaining the essence of what makes this season magical.
If it's your turn to make your holiday decor stand out, browse our collection of artificial plants and trees and book a free consultation with our design experts to find the perfect fit for your home.
Ready to make your space as unique as you are?
