We have seen a plethora of interior trends on the scene this year, from larger-than-life maximalism to sleek, natural Japandi. Now, in the lead-up to Christmas, you may be wondering how you can steer away from the traditional red, white and greens and incorporate your favourite trends of 2022 into your festive decorations.
Pinterest search data shows that interest in “Christmas table settings” has increased by 100% in the last month, signifying the growing excitement for the festive season. So, if you’re one of the people already doing your party planning, then interior design experts from metals4U, Portmeirion, Ginger Ray and AMARA have revealed how to achieve your dream tablescape – incorporating elements from popular design trends.
So whether you’re a fan of bright and colourful maximalism or prefer dark and celestial designs, by following this guide you will be able to achieve a show-stopping tablescape that will suit your tastes and wow your guests.
Tablescaping expert at Portmeirion, Andrea Waters, explains: “When considering elements of table setting, such as placemats and tableware, choose ones that will accentuate and complement your chosen theme. For example, if you have a floral theme, you could use leaf-trimmed tableware alongside botanic-adorned cups and saucers.
“When setting the table and assembling tableware, it’s a good idea to use the rule of three. Begin with your placemat, then place the dinner plate on top and, lastly, finish with a dessert plate. Top it all off with a carefully folded napkin and your chosen cutlery according to how many courses you are having.
“Finally, your glassware choice is a great opportunity to top off your theme. Between textured glasses with a coloured rim or perhaps a classic, deep wine glass with a crystal stem, the only limiting factor is your imagination.”
1. Merry & Bright: Dopamine Dress Your Table
Dopamine dressing has been huge this year! There’s no better time than Christmas to go full out with colour and joyful accents; it will be sure to put a smile on the faces of your family and friends.
Jess Martin, party decoration expert at Ginger Ray said: “Mismatching your tableware is the perfect way to create a vibrant, joyful Christmas table setting. Combine vintage or second-hand pieces with some new favourites for that ideal mixture of shapes and styles. Opt for opulent jewel tones for your glasses and table linens and add in some candlestick holders with bright candles for a multicoloured maximalist look.
“Decant your festive tipple of choice into coloured jugs or a drinks stand – not only will it look much nicer than bottles on the table but it is another great excuse to incorporate some more colour and pattern into your merry and bright tablescape.”
Sam Hood, co-founder and chief creative officer at AMARA, says:
“If you’re looking to create a showstopping centrepiece embracing maximalist themes for your Christmas table, a great option is leaning into ornamental extravagance, with elaborate ornaments and luxury home accessories leading the way.”
Paul McFadyen, metals specialist and Chief Executive at metals4U , suggests:
“For a bright, impactful table, you should stick to brushed finishes on any featured metals rather than polished; shiny metals can look too flashy and overwhelming amongst the bold colours. You also want to avoid pairing with cool-toned metals like stainless steel. For a more unique and unusual choice, go for brushed brass features and cutlery. Brass pairs well with bright, extravagant colours, while also adding an element of elegance and glamour.”
2. The Holly & the Ivy: Bring the Outdoors in
With nature and nordic design being at the forefront of many interior trends this year, feast in your own enchanted forest, straight out of a fairytale book.
Jess said: “When incorporating foliage and natural elements into your tablescape it can be tempting to overwhelm your table and create a cluttered space. However, you’ll need to remember the all-important space for food.
“Opt for one garland draped across the centre of the table or try suspending foliage and baubles from above the table with a table clamp. This is a great option for creating an impressive centrepiece without obstructing any conversation.”
Sam says:
“A large candelabra makes for a perfect focus point for the arrangement, and you can surround this with an elegant festive garland. If you’re decorating a long table, you can add some symmetry to the table landscape with the addition of candlesticks to either end in the same style as the candelabra. Don’t forget to complete each setting with a Christmas cracker.”
Paul says:
“The vintage look of copper and bronze works harmoniously with the deep greens and browns found in nature, creating a well-rounded colour palette. If using these metals, keep it simple and use only as an accent piece to complement the surrounding elements.”
3. O’ Holy Night: Elegant and Enchanting
Inspired by contemporary gothic design and astrology, embrace the dark side this Christmas with dark features and shiny metallics.
Jess said: “A celestial Christmas table is a timeless choice. The darker colours mixed with metallic accents is the ideal colour theme for a transitional tablescape that can work throughout the festive period and for your New Years Eve party too. Opt for a dark coloured grey or midnight blue tablecloth and place settings to allow the decorative elements to really pop.
“Add in some celestial touches with some star confetti, placecards or even a starry curtain behind the dinner table.”
Paul suggests: “For a darker theme like this, you should incorporate cool-toned silver metals such as aluminium and stainless steel to contrast against the dark colours and emulate the stars in the sky. A great way of incorporating metallic elements into your tablescape is by using napkin rings, candle holders, and candelabras. Creating a cascade of candles by adding them at different heights helps to create an elegant ambience that also adds that extra sparkle.”
