Ask the Designer

Interior designer Marion Ormond of Ken Jackson

Q We’re choosing our Christmas tree, but can’t decide whether to go for real or fake. What do you think?

A. Nothing beats the smell of a real Christmas tree and the annual family trip to pick one out. But these days consumers have more concerns about chopping a tree to make their home feel festive. Some people are also allergic to the real thing and shedding needles can cause a mess. Although faux trees are certainly more convenient and can be stored in the attic for use year-after-year, they’re often imported and non-recyclable. Real trees, on the other hand, are a renewable resource grown here at home. If you plump for plastic, a Christmas tree-scented candle and log fire should replicate that all-important smell. Personally though, I prefer a real tree.