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Excellent Ideas For The Ultimate Stylish Summer Dining Table

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After two years of stay-at-home orders, we’re SO READY to entertain again!

‘Tablescaping’ is like designing an interior within an interior – creating a table-top world with its own flourishes and distinct personality. And with the right set of tableware, linen and finishing touches at the ready, the possibilities are endless.

So whether you’re entertaining for one, or the whole extended family this silly season, here are our favourite tabletop trends for summer 2021!

16th December, 2021

Mediterranean-Inspired

If you can’t get to Amalfi (or even Brisbane) anytime soon, then channel that Mediterranean spirit with Grecian-inspired napery, citrus-shaped candles (yes!) and plates painted with cute seafood motifs. La dolce vita!

Get the look:

1. Scallop Wave Napkin and Scallop Vine Napkin (sets of 4) by CLO x Bonnie and Neil. RRP $120

2. Abstract Serving Set from TS Makers. RRP $329 (includes cake stand and serving board)

3. L’Ocean Water Jug from Stevie Michaels. RRP $250

4. Bistro Plate Set (set of 4) by Food For Everyone. RRP $170

5. Nonna’s Grocer Candles. RRP from $26

6. Resin Long Dew Servers in Honeycomb from Dinosaur Designs. RRP $125

7. CLO x Bonnie and Neil Pavolva Vine Tablecloth. RRP $295

8. Citrine Green Wineglasses (set of 2) by Luisa Calice from Tessuti. RRP $260

9. Vice Versa Carafe from Fazeek. RRP $149

Tonal Classic

For a more classic, timeless table, you can’t go wrong with a tonal palette, and an edit of handcrafted ceramics, good quality linens and delicate cutlery. The key here is to add interest with texture and natural materials – or try a subtle on-trend pattern (checks and wiggly lines, we’re looking at you!). As the sun sets, don’t forget candles to really set the mood.

Get the look:

1. Petal Plate in Peach Bloom from House Editions. RRP $105

2. Mennt 200 Bowl (set of 2). RRP $98

3. Black Blaze candle set in Peach. RRP $32

4. Authete Glass Carafe Set in Check from Tigmi Trading. RRP $220

5. Wave Platter in Straw by Alison Frith. RRP $120

6. Shop Louee Summer Tablecloth in white. RRP $110

7. Beehive Candlestick Holder by Walk in the Park from Tessuti. RRP $120

8. Krof cutlery set in silver. RRP $349

9. Holly Sanders x I Love Linen napkins. RRP $39.95

10. Big Serving Dish from Ella Reweti. RRP $110

11. Neptune Sticks by Hermon Blue. RRP $230

Colourful + Contemporary

For maximum mood-enhancing vibes at any summer gathering – GO BOLD! Colour, pattern and texture are all critical in this extroverted arrangement. Look for pieces with visual interest, such as tie-dyed pot coasters, marbled resinware or woven placemats. Multicoloured glassware is a must (the table trend that just won’t quit!), and – to state the obvious, the brighter the better!

If you’re worried about clashing colours, start with one hero colour to build around, to keep things looking cohesive. We can’t think of a better vibe for a group lunch with the gals!

Get the look:

1. Enamelware Dinner Plate from Third Drawer Down. RRP $34

2. LagunaB glass tumblers from Pan After. RRP $165

3. Ewer Jug by Softedge Studio. RRP $480

4. Woven Raffia Bowl by Bridget Jackson of Tjanpi Desert Weavers. $363

5. Ruby Deco Placemat from Ulo Australia (set of 4). RRP $95

6. Curly Flute Glasses (set of 2) from TS Makers. RRP $89

7. Fluro Orange Twist Candle by Lex Post from Jolie Laide. RRP $70

8. Moon Cheese Platter in Zest from Dinosaur Designs. RRP $420

9. Mojito Tablecloth from Suku. RRP $100

10. Amore Pot-Holder Set from Suku. RRP $35

11. Large Flared Bowl in Orange from Mud Australia. RRP $130

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The Design Files acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we work, the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

First Nations artists, designers, makers, and creative business owners are encouraged to submit their projects for coverage on The Design Files. Please email bea@thedesignfiles.net