Tablescaping Tips & Tricks

For those who can't rely on their recipe repertoire, a beautifully set table can distract from a variety of sins committed in the kitchen; and for those who are lucky enough to be culinarily inclined, a thoughtful tablescape is all the better to present your masterpieces on. But where does one start with a blank dining canvas? Below, we outline three ways coordinate and curate your tabletop collection for maximum impact.

Pink Flamestitch Tablescape Permanent Resident Aurora Tablecloth Napkins in Pink Sabre Flatware Cipriani Hong Kong

Magical Monochrome

This concept is easy even for entry level tablescapers - simply pick a preferred color and stick to it. The trick is to include shades of the same hue, from light to dark, and to provide balance by incorporating white or neutral tones. Using a mix of patterns and solids is great way to keep the eye traveling. We love to bring the palette into decorative organic elements in the centerpiece such a florals, fruits, or candies.

Pink Flamestitch Tablescape Permanent Resident Aurora Tablecloth Napkins in Pink Sabre Tortoise Flatware Creart Crystal Glassware Cipriani Hong Kong
Pink Flamestitch Tablescape Permanent Resident Aurora Tablecloth Napkins in Pink Sabre Tortoise Flatware Creart Crystal Glassware Cipriani Hong Kong
Christmas Tablescape featuring Permanent Resident Aurora flamestitch tablecloth in Festive, Suzani Placemats in Beige, Caju Dinner plate and wine glass in Onyx, decorative grapes in onyx and silver bird salt and pepper shaker set

Festive Tablescape Onyx Grapes Sabre Flatware Murano Glasses Onyx Dishware Flamestitch Linens by Permanent Resident
Aurora Set of Four Flamestitch Christmas Napkins in Festive by Permanent Resident
Volume and Layers

The key to a dramatic table is is to add height, and this can be achieved by alternating items of varying dimensions. For family style dining, think of placing some dishes directly on the table and mixing in taller serving items such as pedestals, stands, and fruit bowls to present other options. For plated meals, adornments such as flower arrangements, candle holders, and decorative objects can create interest - but remember not to align these at eye level which will block your guests' view of their dining companions. We are also advocates of combining various sizes and shapes, sizes, and even materials of glassware. Think colored glass with crystal, onyx with Murano glass - basically any combo that doesn't include paper or plastic.

Aurora Flamestitch Tablecloth Blue by Permanent Resident Adriana Castro Woven Placemat Sabre Nature Flatware Creart Incontro Crystal Glassware in Blue

Mix and Match

This idea expounds upon monochrome, but encourages you to source pieces which coordinate with your existing collection in a playful way. If you are head over heels for blues, try to find a variety of blue placemats that work with your blue table linens, allowing you to make subtle switches with minimal effort. Additionally, search out coordinating or even clashing colors of accessories to enliven your set up. Try reds with blues or pinks, greens with beiges, and so on. Even if your weekly meal plan doesn't change, at least your tabletop can!

Aurora Flamestitch Tablecloth 260 cm and Napkins in Blue by Permanent Resident Suzani Placemat Sabre Nature Flatware Swirl Murano Glass Red Glass Dishware
Aurora Flamestitch Tablecloth Blue by Permanent Resident Adriana Castro Woven Placemat Sabre Nature Flatware Creart Incontro Crystal Glassware in Blue

Read More...

Ella Bridgland of Studio Ella
Studio Ella founder Ella Bridgland takes us inside her Pok Fu Lam home to share her design philosophies, art inspirations and cultural recommendations. Take notes!
Artist Jono Toh
Jono Toh is becoming known for his playful paintings of bold geometric abstractions where the subject is truly in the eye of the beholder. You'll want to save some wall space after reading our profile of this charming creative. 
What's In Store
Come inside our month-long residence at The Upper House, our first in-person shopping experience. From panel talks to cocktail parties to caviar bagels, we had it all!