3 Ways to Build a Table Setting

The subtle art of a beautifully set table can transform our dining spaces and our entire mealtime experience. It’s the intentionality behind spreading a tablecloth, placing flowers in a vase, and arranging the flatware just so, that communicates warmth, welcome, and hospitality to our guests, and ultimately ourselves.

The classic contemporary nature of our ceramic dinnerware collection grounds any tablescape design in versatility–starting with pottery allows you to create any number of different looks for your table setting. Go formal or casual, modern or traditional, rustic or chic. By layering in a variety of textiles, glassware, and flatware, the possibilities are endless.

To get your imagination going, we built three different settings as examples of how to vary up your table’s style.

Set The Table

Bring Outside In

Perfect for brunch in the garden, this naturalist look with boho vibes is relaxed and unassuming, just like weekend mornings should be. The mix of pots in Amaro, Morel, and Panna Cotta set the stage with soothing, neutral colors–Brand Design Manager, Drew Nguyen said, for this look he “...wanted to pick some warm, earthy tones with eccentric pieces. Brass is definitely a warmer material than stainless steel and the Whiskey Snifter makes for a great, fuss-free drinking vessel that feels comfortable in your hand.”

Visual Merchandising Manager Sarah Walters added, “I love the Quadrille Placemats for outdoor settings. They're made of linen and have a nice natural feel to them. They easily spot clean and press up nice and crisp!”

Get Cozy

When comfortable romance is on the table, we go for an intimate farmhouse feel. Lit candles are a must and playing footsie is definitely on the agenda. Sarah finds that “the Butternut Little Pilgrim candle holders adds elegance to the everyday table with height, “ and she likes that “the Common Wine Glass is casual and sturdy, great for table wine or sparkling water with bitters.”

Drew mentioned, “these items are meant to feel neutral and lived-in. The vintage stainless steel flatware offer a patina look and the off-white neutrals offer a less sterile and buttoned-up feel.”

Serve with Style

If a dinner party in a downtown loft is your natural habitat, we suggest leaning on textiles and flatware with a vintage, refined air. Drew said this look is, “full classic bistro vibes! For this one,” he noted, “going classic for bright white dinnerware and linens is a must. French flatware with "one-of-a-kind" handles and Italian glassware felt like staples for this setup.” Sarah reminds us, “don’t forget the candles! The Urbino Candle Holder is a favorite for any setting and the Twisted Beeswax Candle adds interest and elegance.”

As you build your table, here are some tips to keep in mind.

Casual Place Settings

• It may sound obvious, but don’t worry about digging out utensils you won’t need (i.e. an oyster fork or dessert spoon)
• Place flatware in order of use, starting outside the plate and work your way in
• Forks go to the left of the plate, knives and spoons to the right
• Using cloth napkins? They can be placed under or beside your fork, or on the plate itself.
• Place a water glass or tumbler above and to the right of your knife.

Formal Table Settings

• They’re usually symmetrical designs, with more functional and decorative elements placed on the table.
• Pull out your favorite linen or cotton tablecloth, along with placemats, chargers, and napkins in coordinating colors. These protect your table and add a warm textural element to your tablescape.
• A centerpiece grounds the design. Floral arrangements, an even number of taper candles mixed with smaller tea lights, and other organic materials (sourced from your backyard!) can all serve as centerpieces.
• Follow the same utensil rules as casual place settings. An “outside in” order will keep you on the right track.

Set Your Table