De-decorate

To remove or undo the decorations from something. This typically involves stripping away ornamentation, adornments, or festive displays. De-decorating can apply to interiors, exteriors, or even people or events. The goal is to return a space or object to a more basic, less embellished state, often for practical, aesthetic, or symbolic purposes. The process usually involves removing items, removing paint or wall paper, or even removing structures or temporary installations. This action can reflect changes in taste, the transition between seasons or events, a change in ownership, or an intentional stripping away of artifice. It is essentially the reverse of decorating.

De-decorate meaning with examples

• After the holidays, Sarah found herself with the daunting task of de-decorating the entire house. She carefully packed away the ornaments, garlands, and fairy lights, returning the rooms to their everyday simplicity. It was a bittersweet process, marking the end of a joyous season, but also a welcome return to order.
• The new homeowner decided to de-decorate the living room before putting it on the market. She removed the brightly colored wallpaper, stripped the room of the large artwork, and removed the curtains, creating a neutral canvas to appeal to prospective buyers. This strategy aimed to maximize the home's appeal.
• The theater crew had to de-decorate the stage after the performance. They dismantled the elaborate set pieces, removed the props and backdrops, and cleared the area for the next production. It was a quick and necessary process for creating a fresh slate for the next story to come.
• Following the wedding, the event planners worked to de-decorate the reception hall. They took down the floral arrangements, removed the tablecloths, and packed away the decorations. This process included breaking down installations of decorations and turning the reception hall back into a usable venue.