BeautyRival – This year, Claridge’s is doing more than just decorating for the holidays it’s telling a story. British designer Daniel Lee, Burberry’s chief creative officer, has been invited to design the hotel’s 2025 Christmas tree. Unveiled on November 25, the 16-foot tree is more than a seasonal display. It’s a statement about tradition, creativity, and sustainability. At first glance, the tree shines with festive charm. But look closer, and you’ll find nearly 600 bows made from Burberry’s surplus fabric. These bows, inspired by Victorian symbols of unity, celebrate togetherness while reducing waste. Additionally, the tree features hanging bells and chess-piece ornaments a subtle nod to Burberry’s heritage. A gold crown tops the tree, and oversized chess pieces stand guard at the base. In every sense, the tree reflects British elegance. It’s not just beautiful it’s meaningful, reminding us how luxury can evolve with purpose.
Daniel Lee didn’t just design a tree he brought a piece of his heart to Claridge’s. For him, the hotel holds memories. He’s spent countless moments there over the years, and it’s always felt like home. So, when asked to create this year’s tree, he saw it as a deeply personal opportunity. He poured his love for Christmas the season he adores into every decision. Through texture, color, and handcrafted details, he tells a story of warmth, nostalgia, and joy. Moreover, he viewed the project as a chance to connect with people emotionally. “It’s an honor,” Lee said, calling the experience a way to celebrate tradition and togetherness. Rather than chase spectacle, he chose sincerity. Therefore, the tree feels alive, not just as an art piece, but as an expression of memory and meaning. Visitors will not only admire it they’ll feel it.
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Every element on the tree tells a story. Instead of simply decorating, Lee composed a visual narrative. The golden crown at the top suggests timeless elegance. The chess pieces, both hanging and floor-standing, represent strength and strategic beauty. Even the bells delicate and clear echo joy and reflection. But the true heart of the tree lies in the 600 bows, each one crafted from Burberry’s leftover fabric. They’re not just recycled materials; they’re symbols of intention. As a result, the tree becomes a canvas for sustainable storytelling. Each bow brings the past into the present, giving fabric a second life in the glow of Christmas. Furthermore, the balance between history and innovation creates a richer experience for guests. Lee’s message is clear: you don’t need extravagance to make a lasting impression. Sometimes, the quietest designs speak the loudest.
Daniel Lee didn’t just think about how the tree looks he thought about what it means. In a world where excess often defines luxury, he chose a different path. By reusing Burberry’s surplus fabric, he gave new life to what might have gone unused. As a result, the tree becomes more than decoration it becomes a symbol of thoughtful creation. The bows reflect his belief that beauty and sustainability can work together. Moreover, this approach adds emotional depth to the display. Guests won’t just see pretty ornaments. They’ll see intention, care, and change. Today’s consumer wants more from luxury, and Lee delivers. Not only does his design reduce waste, but it also tells a bigger story about responsibility. Through this tree, Claridge’s joins the conversation around conscious creativity. It’s not just a hotel lobby it’s a platform for change wrapped in holiday cheer.
Claridge’s has a long history of inviting top designers to create its Christmas tree and each has brought something special. This is the 15th year of the tradition, and Daniel Lee steps into a legacy shaped by the greats. From Karl Lagerfeld to Christian Louboutin and Louis Vuitton, many iconic names have reimagined this space. Notably, Burberry was part of this journey once before. In 2015, Christopher Bailey created a tree of umbrellas, honoring the brand’s rainwear heritage. His design lit up with 77,000 twinkling lights, dazzling visitors. Lee, however, takes a more intimate approach. Instead of light and spectacle, he focuses on texture, reuse, and emotion. Consequently, his tree feels warmer, more tactile, and deeply rooted in storytelling. While the design may be quieter, its message resonates clearly. He’s not trying to outshine past creations. He’s offering something more timeless something that lingers long after the lights dim.
Claridge’s managing director, Thomas Kochs, described this year’s unveiling with genuine excitement. “We’re honored to welcome Daniel Lee,” he said, hinting at the immersive holiday experience that awaits guests. Stepping into the hotel’s lobby this season won’t feel like just another walk through luxury it’ll feel like entering a carefully constructed world. The details invite guests to pause. The gold crown draws the eye upward, while the chess pieces command attention at ground level. Everything, from the color palette to the fabrics, connects back to Burberry’s rich visual language. Importantly, it also connects to Lee’s creative voice. He doesn’t just build a scene he builds a feeling. Visitors will leave with more than photos. They’ll leave with memories, shaped by emotion, texture, and warmth. In doing so, Lee transforms Claridge’s lobby into a heartfelt holiday haven.
This year’s Claridge’s Christmas tree stands for more than seasonal beauty. Thanks to Daniel Lee, it now represents connection, tradition, and thoughtful design. It’s not the flashiest or most extravagant tree. Yet, that’s exactly what makes it unforgettable. Lee’s use of recycled fabric, his homage to heritage, and his subtle storytelling all come together with elegance. As a result, the tree feels both personal and universal. It reminds us that luxury can have soul. That sustainability and style can coexist. And that some of the most beautiful things are born from care, not excess. Through this design, Lee doesn’t just share his vision he invites everyone to feel part of it. In a busy, fast-moving world, this tree offers a pause. A breath. A reason to look again, and maybe, to feel a little more.
