Scary Chic Halloween Inspo from Ashton Woods Designers

Grab your broomsticks and break out the pumpkins — our favorite haunted holiday is almost here, and that means it’s time to get decorating. For some design inspiration that’s as chic as it is spooky, treat yourself to these Halloween decoration ideas by Ashton Woods Studio Manager Nikki James and Design Studio Consultant Karina Pruitt. Check out how Nikki and Karina got into the Halloween spirit with these DIY Halloween projects at Tenison Village in Dallas.

DIY Skull Tablescape

Everyone loves a themed tablescape, and what better holiday to kick off the endless centerpieces that will adorn your table for the next few months than a Halloween spread? From creepy to cute, there are so many ways to decorate for Halloween, but for this table, we decided to go a little scary with neutral-colored skulls offset by subtle pops of orange.
 
So how do you create this spectacularly spooky centerpiece? First, consider the shape and size of the table. Since we were working with a rectangular table it was important that we went with something that could stretch out the entire length of the table. Second, lay the foundation for your design. We chose a linen-blend table runner in a soft beige. For contrast, we used cream and black plastic skulls from Target and placed them along the runner.
 
To balance your tablescape, you’ll also want to add vertical interest. For this design, we used varying heights of candlesticks, then mixed things up with black candle holders topped with small orange and white pumpkins.
 
Lastly, we wanted a natural element to create one more layer of texture. We had a tough time finding what we were looking for at the store, so we did a little DIY by finding dead branches in the yard and painting them black. Take these branches and place them between your other elements, and there you have it — a hauntingly elegant tablescape! Check us out on social to see how it all came together.

Front Door Decorations for Halloween

Now that cooler weather is finally upon us, it’s the perfect time to get outside and decorate the front porch. If you’re looking for inspiration on how to spruce up your doorstep this Halloween season, I’ve got you covered.
 
Start by choosing a simple color palette. Black and white are great neutral options and allow you to sprinkle in various shades of orange for a vibrant pop of color.
 
Next, let’s layer some doormats. We started by placing a large black and white rug as the base layer. Then choose a statement doormat and place it directly on top of your rug. “Hey Boo” and “Hello Pumpkin” are a few of our favorites!
 
And now for the showpiece: the pumpkins! Choose a wide variety of shapes, sizes and colors. Stack or arrange them in clusters, and now you’re ready to add your Halloween decor. Mix in some skulls, skeletons, bats and spiders for that eerie effect.
 
Lastly, top off your front porch decor with a colorful wreath, and voila! You’re ready to greet trick-or-treaters in style. Watch our video to see how we made our Halloween front porch decor.

Get More Design Tips

Looking for more ways to get into the spirit of the season? Whether you’re decorating for Halloween, Thanksgiving or the holidays, check out these tips on how to style your coffee table.