How to Choose the Right Christmas Tree Shape for Your Home

Trying to find the perfect artificial Christmas tree for your space? With so many shapes, sizes, and styles out there, it can be hard to know where to start. But don’t worry, we’re here to help.

Whether you’re decorating a cosy flat or a grand hallway, picking the right Christmas tree shape can make all the difference. This festive guide will walk you through the most popular artificial Christmas trees and how to style them so they look their best.

What are the different types of Christmas trees available at Christmas Tree World?

Not all trees are created equal, and that’s a good thing! There’s a shape for every room and every style. Here are the most-loved options:

1. Full and bushy Christmas trees

Ideal for: Large living rooms, open-plan spaces, bay windows

A full Christmas tree, like the Arbor Vitae Fir Tree, is the most traditional style. Think broad base, dense branches, and plenty of space for baubles, ribbons and twinkling lights. These realistic bushy Christmas trees are perfect for homes that want a lush, forest-like centrepiece that really brings the outdoors in.

Explore bushy Christmas trees

2. Slim and pencil Christmas trees

Ideal for: Smaller rooms, apartments, corners, hallways

A slim or pencil Christmas tree is a smart solution if you're short on space but still want that festive flair. These narrow Christmas trees offer the height of a traditional tree with a much smaller footprint, perfect for compact spaces or as a second tree in the bedroom or hallway.

Browse slim Christmas trees

3. Half Christmas trees (flatback trees)

Ideal for: Small rooms, corners, tight spaces

Half Christmas trees (also known as flatback trees) are shaped just like a regular tree from the front, but sit flush against the wall. You get the full festive look without sacrificing any floor space, and you’ll need fewer decorations too! Check out our guide to the best Christmas trees for small spaces for more inspiration.

See our range of half Christmas trees

4. Upside-down Christmas trees

Ideal for: Statement makers, modern homes, commercial spaces

Turn tradition on its head with an upside-down Christmas tree. These eye-catching styles free up floor space and bring a bold, contemporary twist to your décor. They’re great for shops, event spaces, and anyone who wants to make a memorable statement this Christmas.

Discover upside-down trees

5. Mini and small Christmas trees

Ideal for: Children’s bedrooms, desks, side tables, entryways

Small doesn’t mean less festive! Mini Christmas trees are perfect for adding seasonal touches throughout your home. Try placing them in bedrooms, on windowsills, or use them to frame a fireplace or staircase.

Find mini & small Christmas trees

6. Tall Christmas trees (9ft+)

Ideal for: Hallways, open stairwells, double-height ceilings

If you’ve got the ceiling height, or want to make an outdoor statement, a tall Christmas tree delivers serious wow factor. From 9ft to 20ft trees, these majestic trees are ideal for commercial spaces, large homes, or dramatic entrances. Pair with large baubles and a large star tree topper for a showstopping finishing touch.

Explore 9ft Christmas trees

7. Potted and outdoor-ready trees

Ideal for: Porches, patios, doorways, balconies, or adding height indoors

Perfect for indoor or outdoor use, potted artificial Christmas trees are ideal for adding festive touches around your home and garden. Choose pre-lit potted pines, snowy tree styles, or slim outdoor trees to frame your front door or line a garden path.

Shop potted Christmas trees and outdoor Christmas trees

8. Pop-up Christmas trees

Ideal for: Busy households, quick decorating, smaller budgets

Pop-up Christmas trees are the ultimate fuss-free festive option. These clever trees come pre-lit and pre-decorated, just pop them up and you're ready to celebrate!

Perfect if you’re short on time or storage or simply want an easy setup, these are also reusable year after year and can be customised with extra lights or baubles to add your own sparkle.

Browse pop-up trees

How to pick the right Christmas tree shape for your room

When choosing a tree, think about:

  • The space available – measure both height and width

  • Your decorating style – minimalist or maximalist?

  • Whether it’s your main tree – or one of many!

  • Tree placement – against a wall, in a corner, or in an open area

A full tree works best as a main feature in spacious rooms, while slim or flatback trees are better for smaller rooms or corners.

Decorating tips for every tree shape

For full or bushy trees

  • Layer baubles, tinsel, and natural decorations like pine cones or dried orange slices

  • Use ribbon or velvet garlands to add texture

  • Mix gold, silver, and classic red for a nostalgic look

For slim or pencil trees

  • Keep it simple with fewer, larger ornaments

  • Go vertical with beaded garlands or ribbon streamers

  • Use LED lights to draw the eye upward

For half trees

  • Concentrate your best tree decorations on the front-facing side

  • Use a festive tree skirt or gift boxes underneath to complete the look

  • Ideal for flats, offices or narrow hallways

For upside-down trees

  • Hang baubles that dangle down for a chandelier effect

  • Add ceiling-hung decorations nearby for extra drama

  • Choose bold, modern tree decorations to match the look

For mini trees

  • Use mini baubles, battery-powered lights, or even DIY paper ornaments

  • Style them as a pair in an entryway or on a shelf

  • Add small gifts or wrapped boxes around the base

Bonus: Try a blossom tree for a unique glow

Looking for something a little different? An LED blossom tree offers a soft, sparkling alternative to traditional Christmas trees. These are ideal for modern spaces, outdoor gardens, or secondary trees to light up hallways and conservatories.

Find your perfect Christmas tree shape today

Whether you’re after a full Christmas tree to fill your living room with festive warmth or a slim spruce to suit smaller rooms, Christmas Tree World has a wide range of artificial Christmas trees in all shapes and sizes. From realistic Christmas trees with dense needles and twinkling lights to pencil trees, half trees, and mini trees, we make it easy to choose a style that suits your home.

Explore our collection to create a balanced look this festive season. Find LED lights, Christmas tree decorations, including shatterproof baubles and tree skirts, wreaths and garlands, and more. We'll help you create a festive look you’ll love, whether you’re going for classic gold, woodland nature-inspired, or bright and bold.

FAQs

What is the most realistic artificial Christmas tree shape?

A bushy Christmas tree with dense branches, PE tips, and a broad base gives the most lifelike appearance, perfect if you’re after the look of a real Christmas tree without the shedding needles. These realistic Christmas trees are great for showcasing ornaments, pine cones, and tree decorations.

What’s the best artificial Christmas tree for a small space?

For smaller rooms, slim trees, pencil trees, and half trees are ideal. They take up less floor space but still offer plenty of height and festive charm. These styles work well in flats, corners, or narrow entryways.

Can I decorate every tree shape the same way?

Each Christmas tree shape has its perks! A full tree is perfect for layered baubles and dense foliage styling. Slimmer shapes benefit from a balanced look with fewer decorations, while upside-down trees are great for hanging ornaments and creating a talking point. Tailor your decorating ideas to the shape to make the most of your space.