UNWITTINGLY, floral designer and stylist Tony Rodriguez does a non-literal interpretation of the Space Age for the Christmas decor at Diamond Hotel. Think metal and fiberglass.

When children walk into the lobby, they exclaim that they?d like to be photographed by the ?red rocket ships,? which are actually funnels styled into Christmas trees.

Rodriguez believes that the decoration should complement or be integral to the interior design. To complement the hotel?s neoclassical lobby?black marble, curvilinear forms, gigantic pillars, sweeping staircase and lofty cove-lit ceiling?he created a streamlined modern look.

Red is dominant, in contrast to the marble, and accentuated with gold and lighting to bring out the rich tones. The trees follow clean lines, while garlands undulate around the staircase. In keeping with the clean, modern look, the embellishments are placed sparingly and strategically.

?We have to go with times,? says Rodriguez of his minimalist bent.

Instead of the conventional pyramid tree, he installed a 15-ft-high tree made from balls attached to gold-sprayed chrome bars that seem to sprout from the ground.

?They are as big as heads,? says Rodriguez. ?It?s different from other trees which are lit from top to bottom with a star on top. This is lit by 130 bulbs.?

Poinsettias on a base of red velvet with gold lamé serve as link between tradition and modernity. They also soften the modern abstraction.

The tree is in the center, surrounded by various-sized fiberglass cones, with red dye finish, a fiberglass star on top, all enhanced by accent lights. To Rodriguez, this composition symbolizes a family. ?I?m a Christmas person. The arrangement reminds me of love in the family. This is the best time to express it.?

Smaller fiberglass trees are made into tablescapes, with berries, red velvet poinsettias and leaves made of rubberized fabrics. They are set against corner mirrors, creating optical illusions.

Instead of the usual garlands and wreaths on the staircase, the railings are looped with green vinyl with red fiberglass balls?2,500 in all?and tivoli lights arranged in crests and troughs. Rodriguez says the wave pattern represents the thrill of the roller-coaster ride of life. The big wreath in the balusters is made up of 178 pieces of red balls embellished with red and gold berries.

Rodriguez adds: ?The decor need not be over-the-top. As a modern concept, it?s important to be minimal but significant, striking and memorable.?

What?s important is the soul. ?This is a wholesome Christmas, full of joy and thoughtfulness.?