Filed under: Your Home, Fun Stuff, Parties & Entertaining, Design, etc
Spice up your table setting this weekend with simple ideas taken from over-the-top designer tablescapes.
At DIFFA's DINING BY DESIGN events, designers create 3-D dining installations that push boundaries, inspire guests and set the stage for fundraising. Yes, these tables are, by definition, extravagant. But that doesn't me they aren't filled with small, simple take-home tips that you can put in place for tonight!
Today's table: Donna Karan's sophisticated and fresh table setting. She brings a new spin to black and white by alternating place settings. The rectangular table and squared seat cushions create simple, clean lines -- and while we don't encourage buying a new table set to match this one, we do have some take-home tips for recreating Karan's look.
Table Idea #1: Table-Long Centerpiece
After all, why should guests at the center of the table be the only ones with a decorative view? Use a long, narrow vase box like the one shown here. By keeping it narrow, your guests still have plenty of space. We like the stones and dainty white flowers fashioned on Karan's table, but take the idea and make it your own! We have some creative centerpieces to give you ideas!
Table Idea #2: Mix & Match
What makes this table so dynamic and appealing is the use of white and black dinnerware. Play with each setting -- everyone needs a charger, plate and bowl, but they don't all have to be uniform. We like how Karan uses different sizes and shapes on top of the two-tone setting.
Table Idea #3: Placemats
Placemats are a simply table idea that will transform your setting. The subtle black layer adds a bit of shimmer to the table. Nothing too drastic is needed, as seen by this black-on-black example. But unlike a blank table or blanket tablecloth, placemats give the scene more depth.
Get more table ideas from previous featured settings:
Arpad Baksa's Geometric Mannequin Table
Architectural Digest's Flowery Table