With the festive season in mind, Mactaggart & Mickel Homes has advice for decorating the home at Christmas ... and it has dressed its show home at Castle Grove in Newton Mearns with a tree and gifts.

The Spence is a luxury five-bedroom family home with a flowing and open kitchen, dining and living space on the ground floor. The centrepiece is a breath-taking double-storey height window which makes the perfect backdrop for a luxurious Christmas tree full of sprigs of holly, vibrant red berries and golden pine cones. The spacious family room has mood lighting and a wood burning stove, perfect for Christmas Eve. Upstairs, the master bedroom has a private dressing room and en-suite with separate bath, and a further four bedrooms, two with en-suites, complete this stylish family home.

Interior designer Gerry Burke styled the striking Spence showhome. Mr Burke said: "Christmas is the time of year when you want your home looking its best for entertaining family and friends." When it comes to popular festive themes for Christmas decorating, he has spotted some key trends: "White and silver decorations and traditional baubles are making a comeback. When it comes to lighting, simple white fairy lights will create that classic timeless look."

Mr Burke also advises everyone – whether in a new home or settling into another Christmas in a familiar home – to invest in quality decorations that will last year after year.

"Consider your existing colour scheme and carry this through to your Christmas decorations. Don’t forget soft furnishings – scatter cushions and fur throws create a cosy feel," he adds.

"Think outside the box and use feathers and other natural materials such as twigs, pinecones and berries. Check out your local florist or garden centre for items you can incorporate into your decorations.

"Don’t just think about the tree; look for other places in your home to add a festive sparkle to. Stairwells, mantelpieces and console tables look gorgeous dressed to the nines with foliage, twinkly lights and candles.

"There is no such thing as too much! If you think your tree can take 40 lights, hang 80 for a more opulent feel. Dare to be a bit different. Reflect your personality in your decorations. If you love pink why not have a show stopping pink tree? Create impact at your front door using hurricane lamps.

The Spence is priced from £694,995. Castle Grove is open Thursday to Monday 10.30am to 4.30pm. To arrange a viewing of the Spence show home call 0141 639 8199 or for more information please visit www.macmic.co.