At holiday time, John Lassila's mercury glass collection takes center stage.

He showcases the reflective silver pieces on tabletop vignettes, tucked in garland and suspended below wall sconces.

"I like how it shimmers and has a refined look," said Lassila, a Minneapolis interior designer who trims the homes of some of his clients as well as his own.

Along with mercury glass (known as poor man's silver), Lassila rounds out his festive yet unconventional holiday color scheme with copper, gold and robin's egg blue. The muted tones lend a sophisticated look, blend well with the interiors of his 1940s Cape Cod-style home and look good well into the new year.

"These colors and accessories don't scream 'Christmas' and can last well into January," he said. "That's the best time to have parties, when it's less crazy and people are more relaxed."

Here are some of Lassila's decorating tips:

Star Tribune, Star Tribune
Interior designer John Lassila trims his tree with festive copper-colored beaded branches and a mix of robin’s egg blue, silver and gold ornaments.

Creative collections. For visual impact, group together objects by similar finishes and colors, but use different shapes and sizes. "Many people have crystal pieces," said Lassila. "Fill them with berries and ornaments."

Color it simple. To get a cohesive look, Lassila recommends sticking to just a few colors. He used four colors -- silver, gold, copper and robin's egg blue -- in a variety of shades. He adds cream-colored poinsettias as neutral accents in many rooms.

Repeat a theme. Establish a theme and stick to it. Lassila's mercury glass ornaments are tucked in garlands and hung from the tree.

Maximize accessories. Lassila pulled a table and lanterns from his porch and used them in a foyer vignette. He fills mercury glass urns with eucalyptus.

Go back to nature. Use natural materials to breath life into permanent displays. Lassila's favorites include birch logs, pine cones, magnolia leaves and seeded cedar. He also suggests inserting fresh greens into artificial wreaths, arrangements and garlands right before a party.

Stock up. Once you establish a theme and a color scheme, you can buy items that work with both all year long. "When I find copper and robin's egg blue ornaments -- I buy a dozen," he said.

Lynn Underwood • 612-673-7619